The Complex Nature of Bipolar Disorders
Bipolar disorders can be complicated and confusing to deal with on a daily basis. They involve extremes of the emotional spectrum (depressive lows and manic highs) that can be exhausting to manage. Despite ongoing research, an exact cause isn’t known. However, family history, past trauma, and an altered brain structure may play a role in predisposition. If you or someone you know is dealing with a type of bipolar disorder, you shouldn’t have to handle it alone. Proper treatment and healthy coping techniques can allow for lifelong relief. Reaching out for help shows bravery and shouldn’t bring any sort of shame. Beachside Rehab is available to help anyone in Florida looking for treatment for bipolar disorders.
Two Extremes – Manic and Depressive Episodes
The intense mood swings between mania and depression can be challenging to predict and handle. They can emerge entirely without warning and cause disruption to you and your loved ones’ lives. Manic or hypomanic (less intense) episodes may involve intense euphoria, impulsive behaviors, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. This switches quickly into depressive episodes, which can involve persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Both mania and depression can be dangerous and lead to self-destructive behaviors. Relief from these feelings is possible with proper treatment.
Types of Bipolar Disorders
All types of bipolar disorders may involve mania, hypomania, depression, and possibly unpredictable changes in mood. It is common to experience intense distress and difficulty with daily tasks. Each type is a completely different diagnosis and should be treated with care.
- Bipolar I Disorder: This is the most common type of bipolar disorder. It involves at least one manic episode, with or without hypomanic or depressive episodes.
- Bipolar II Disorder: Bipolar II involves at least one long-term, major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. No manic episodes occur with this diagnosis.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by long-term, “mild” episodes of hypomania and depression. It lasts for at least two years.
Other Unspecified Types: Other related disorders can be considered bipolar. These included those induced by drugs or alcohol or medical conditions like Cushing’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Help Is Available for Bipolar Disorder Relief
The conversation around bipolar disorders in mainstream media involves a huge amount of stigma and leads to unnecessary shame in individuals struggling with their diagnosis. We want you to know that is okay to ask for help. Inpatient treatment programs from Beachside Rehab can offer relief through psychotherapy, medications, support groups, and 24/7 medical support. Reach out to us today if you believe you or a loved one could benefit from our world-class supportive staff.
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