Bipolar condition represents a complex mental disorder causing changes to emotional states as well as dominant energy levels and basic life function abilities. But how do you know if you have bipolar disorder?
Timely Psychiatry can be helpful when a family member is facing bipolar disorder. Our friendly staff offers expert support, therapy, and treatment to bring stability and peace of mind into life. Schedule a meeting today!
Let’s explore the signs and available interventions.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder (known clinically as manic-depressive illness) serves as a cognitive issue that leads to modifications in energy levels, mood variations, engagement patterns, and daily tasks.
Bipolar disorder possesses varying forms which exist as individual components:
- Bipolar I disorder – Features intense manic episodes with extreme mood swings.
- Bipolar II disorder – Involves deep depressions with milder manic episodes.
- The condition of cyclothymic disorder results in regularly appearing mood variations that stay below the intensity level of other disorders.
Is Bipolar a Disability?
In multiple cases, absolutely. Severe bipolar disorder can make it hard to:
- Keep a job
- Maintain relationships
- Handled daily responsibilities
Due to this, certain people with bipolar disorder meet the criteria for disability support.
How Do You Know If You Have Bipolar Disorder?
If you find yourself thinking, “How do you know if you have bipolar disorder?” Here are some indicators:
Manic or Hypomanic Episodes Symptoms:
- Long periods of excessive happiness or irritability
- Increased energy, little need for sleep
- Racing thoughts, talking fast
- Impulsive behavior like overspending
- Feeling invincible or overly confident
Patient living with bipolar disorder type 2 hypomania. It is a milder form of mania.
Depressive Episode Symptoms:
- Feeling very sad or hopeless
- Low energy, trouble concentrating
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Losing interest in hobbies
- Suicidal thoughts
The existence of bipolar illness becomes more likely when your normal daily activities become impaired by severe mood swings. Check with a professional to choose the correct course of action.
Can a Therapist Diagnose Bipolar Disorder?
A professional therapist can identify a psychological diagnosis of bipolar illness with an active license in psychology or social work.
Only some mental health experts, such as psychiatrists, can, however, prescribe medication for it.
Therapists sometimes assist psychiatrists in verifying the diagnosis and developing a treatment schedule.
To grasp mood swings, they analyze, utilize tests, and go over someone’s past. A diagnosis draws on specific DSM-5 standards.
How Does a Person with Bipolar Think?
Depending on their mood, people with bipolar illness often have rather diverse mental processes.
During mania:
- Thoughts race too fast to keep up
- They may believe unrealistic things (like they’re famous or invincible)
- They might start many projects, but never finish them
During the depression:
- Thoughts become very negative
- They may feel worthless or guilty over small things
- Bipolar and suicidal thoughts can become overwhelming
Some individuals also experience bipolar disorder depersonalization, where they feel detached from reality or their own emotions.
When Bipolar Disorder Requires Hospitalization
If symptoms of bipolar illness get severe, a person may have to visit a hospital. Extreme mood swings—manic or depressed episodes—that can cause self-harm or injury to others can all lead to this.
Furthermore, hospital treatment is required should one have:
- Hallucinations or confusion—also known as psychosis
- strong rage or hostility
- Problems with personal hygiene
- Thoughts of suicide or attempts
Doctors could advise a hospital stay if the medicine isn’t working or needs to be changed rapidly. Keeping the person safe and supporting their emotional recovery are the primary objectives.
Can You Trust a Bipolar Person?
Yes. Proper management of bipolar disorder enables a person to remain trustworthy. Trust depends on whether they follow treatment, take medication, and stay self-aware.
During stable periods, they can be just as reliable as anyone else. Open communication and understanding help build a strong, trusting relationship.
How Are Sleep Apnea and Bipolar Disorder Connected?
Sleep apnea and Bipolar disorder have an association via several different linked pathways. Studies show that sleep apnea affects up to 30% of bipolar illness sufferers more frequently than in the general population.
In bipolar disorder patients, sleep apnea can arise for three reasons:
- Medication-induced weight loss
- Metabolic alterations
- Some lifestyle choices
Apnea can aggravate sleep, therefore aggravating bipolar symptoms and mood swings. The sleep disorders connected to bipolar illness set up a problematic cycle.
Treating sleep apnea with a CPAP machine helps bipolar disease to be more under control. Good therapy depends on doctors looking for sleep problems in every bipolar patient.
Living With Bipolar Disorder: Recovery & Hope
Numerous individuals with bipolar disorder lead complete, successful lives. The key is:
- Sticking to a bipolar treatment plan
- Having a strong support system
- Learning to recognize early warning signs
While there’s no cure, bipolar disorder recovery is possible with the right help.
Bipolar Treatment Plan
Bipolar disorder is certainly treatable. Generally, the bipolar treatment plan includes:
-
Medication
Doctors may prescribe:
- Mood stabilizers
- Antidepressants like Zoloft for bipolar
-
Therapy
Communicating with a therapist can help you deal with symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Counseling (CBC) is a popular choice.
-
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise
- Healthy eating
- Taking vitamins for bipolar disorder, like Omega-3 and Vitamin B
When symptoms can no longer be bridled, one must choose to rescue oneself by seeking help from treatment facilities for bipolar disorder. They admit patients in a severely depressed state and treat them medically, providing therapies and crisis interventions.
Final Thoughts: How Do You Know If You Have Bipolar Disorder?
Make a note of warning signs when you believe bipolar disorder exists. Track modifications in your mood, energy consumption, and sleep routine.
Getting knowledgeable medical assistance is essential for a proper bipolar disorder diagnosis and therapy. Bipolar therapists provide assistance to lead you toward appropriate treatment options.
Waiting when someone to confront this condition should never be an option. Reach out for help. Total control of bipolar disorder through appropriate care enables patients to experience a balanced life while maintaining real hope.
FAQs
Q: What is expansive mood?
The condition known as expansive mood describes unusually enthusiastic and excessively cheerful behavior during manic episodes. A manic state leads to intense confidence and a big self-image. People also feel extreme happiness during this time.
Q: How do I find a bipolar therapist near me?
You can identify a bipolar therapist in three ways:
- Online directories
- Insurance providers
- Mental health organizations
- Referrals from primary care doctors
Q: How do I support a bipolar friend?
Patiently support your friend. Listen without judgment. Please encourage them to seek professional help. Try to help them establish a steady routine. Check in with them from time to time about their well-being.
Q: What should someone do if they experience bipolar and suicidal thoughts?
If you’re experiencing bipolar and suicidal thoughts, get help quickly from experts, trusted individuals, or crisis helplines.