Substantial variations in someone’s mood identify bipolar disorder. A person can shift from joy and energy to experiencing sorrow and exhaustion.
Such changes can create problems in daily living. Why do people get bipolar disorder? Is prevention possible?
Let’s break down this topic into basic concepts for us.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder includes strong mood swings. These changes can affect how people think and act.
There are only two main categories.
- Bipolar I includes full manic episodes, where someone feels overly excited or active.
- Bipolar II means there is less strong mania (hypomania) and more hours of depression, which occur more often.
For an individual with a bipolar diagnosis, these ups and downs can generate uncertainty.
We use methods at Ascension Psychiatric Services to address the biological aspects involved in bipolar disorder. Our staff can help you address these feelings using both therapy and adjustments in your way of living.
What Are the Signs?
Common signs of mania (high mood) include:
- Talking very fast
- Feeling powerful or important
- Sleeping little but still having energy
- Making risky choices, like overspending
Common signs of depression (low mood) include:
- Feeling very sad or empty
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Losing interest in enjoyable activities
- Feeling tired all the time
- Thinking about death or suicide
At Ascension Psychiatric Services, we help individuals spot these symptoms early. We provide the proper support and integrative treatments to manage these mood shifts.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder does not have an exact cause, but the following are the main contributors to its development:
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Genetics
Family history matters, where the risk factor increases if someone has the disease and is closely related to you.
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Brain Chemistry and Structure
Disturbances in neurotransmitter activity and alterations in brain structure are likely to interfere with mood control.
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Life Stressors
Harsh stress or trauma can set off episodes, particularly in those sensitive to bipolar disorder, by triggering mania or sadness.
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Psychoactive Substances
The use of drugs and alcohol quite often leads to disturbances in brain chemistry, inducing mood episodes. At Ascension Psychiatric Services, we treat substance-related problems using a holistic approach.
Can Bipolar Disorder Be Prevented?
You can control and diminish symptoms of bipolar disorder, notably in the preliminary stages. There are prevention methods to lessen the chance of episodic attacks.
Wellness and lifestyle changes can offer considerable benefits when they align closely with the patient’s needs.
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Early Diagnosis
Identifying early signs helps you get the proper treatment before the disorder worsens.
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Mind-Body Practices
Physical activities such as yoga and tai chi can calm nerves and encourage emotional resilience. At Ascension Psychiatric Services, we recommend these alongside medication.
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Nutritional Support
A diet rich in healthy nutrients will enhance brain health and, therefore, help stabilize the occurrence of mood swings. We also offer consultations in nature to ensure that your nutritional requirements are met.
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Stress Management
Learning stress management techniques, such as meditation, will reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.
A body of research confirms that light therapies can be used in the regulation of mood and symptom self-management.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
Physicians and therapists will analyze your emotional condition, vigor, sleep practices, and responses. They might also look into your family history.
There is no blood test for bipolar disorder, and diagnosing it takes time. You might be misdiagnosed at first, but that’s okay. Keep talking to your doctor to find the correct diagnosis.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services, we make the diagnostic process thorough and patient-centered. We use pharmacogenomics testing by Genesight to personalize your care and ensure you get the proper medications.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Bipolar disorder is an illness for life. With treatment, a person can be happy. The treatment usually consists of:
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Medication
Medical professionals suggest mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants to manage brain chemicals and emotions.
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Psychotherapy
Counselors help the client in analyzing concepts and sentiments. The therapy teaches healthier responses in dealing with stress, relationships, and daily activities.
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The Support System
People often find support groups, family, or friends very useful in their recovery. Talking with someone can ease your feelings.
Integrative Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
Caring for bipolar disorder involves taking medical drugs with the help of supporting therapies. It helps improve our mental and emotional health. This system frequently covers:
- Meditation: A calming technique to alleviate stress.
- Hypnosis and Guided Imagery: It assists in addressing emotional cues while nurturing relaxation.
- Yoga and Tai Chi: Calm movement practices identified as effective in decreasing stress and anxiety.
- Herbal Supplements and Naturopathy: Organic remedies to balance emotions.
- Light Therapy: Special light treatments that relieve and buoy the mood.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services, we provide custom mixtures of all these treatments. We emphasize integrative techniques for balancing your moods and concerns.
How Can You Help Someone with Bipolar Disorder?
If someone you know has bipolar disorder:
- Try to be kind to others. Avoid judgment.
- Let them say what they feel.
- Take time to read about bipolar disorder.
- Encourage your team to help one another. Pushing them to visit a doctor or a therapist can help with their diagnosis.
- Be patient. Healing takes time.
At Ascension Psychiatric Services, both the patient and their loved ones are part of our treatment. We give information and assistance on bipolar disorder to help everyone care for those with the condition.
Final Thoughts
Bipolar disorder stands for a credible medical ailment distinguished by extreme mood variations. The appropriate support allows people to enhance their wellness and enjoy fulfilling lives.
Complete prevention of this illness isn’t possible, but we can recognize its symptoms while taking care of our mental health and providing support to each other.
When you or someone close to you faces difficulties, remember that others share your experience. Ascension Psychiatric Services offers help and hope through caring professionals. Contact us today for our support as you journey toward wellness.
FAQs
Can bipolar disorder go away on its own?
Bipolar disorder can’t be cured, but treatment helps manage symptoms. It won’t go away on its own.
Can stress cause bipolar disorder?
Stress or trauma can trigger bipolar episodes, but it’s not the leading cause.
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