Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a treatable psychiatric disorder. It is classified as a mood disorder because it is characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy level, or behavior. Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder commonly exhibit swings between manic moods and depressive moods. Mood swings in affected individuals can last for hours, days, or even weeks.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is often confused with depression; however, there are significant differences between the two illnesses. The extreme “highs” and “lows” as well as the mood swings of bipolar disorder are what set it apart from other diseases.
Similar to drug or alcohol addiction, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe and affect most areas of a person’s life.
Mania – The High of Bipolar Disorder
- Increased energy
- Heightened mood, extreme self-confidence
- Elevated irritability
- Decreased sleep without fatigue
- Grandiose thoughts, inflated sense of self-importance
- Racing speech and thoughts
- Impulsiveness and poor judgment
- Reckless behavior
Depression - The Low of Bipolar Disorder
- Prolonged sadness with unexplained crying spells
- Significant changes in appetite and sleep
- Irritability, agitation, or anxiety
- Feeling of indifference
- Loss of energy
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Inability to concentrate
- Inability to take pleasure in former interests
- Unexplained aches and pains
Bipolar Disorder Treatment
When an individual arrives at Lakeview Health, he/she is assessed for mental disorders that may coexist with addiction so that both can be treated properly. The simultaneous existence of an addiction and a psychological disorder is referred to as a dual diagnosis.
We specialize in dual diagnosis and have effective treatment methods in place for bipolar disorder. First, psychological therapies can help clients reduce the severity and frequency of mood swings. Therapy can also begin to give afflicted individuals the tools they need to adapt to living with the disorder.
Patients are also given medical treatment to manage bipolar disorder. Medical professionals often prescribe mood stabilizers, such as Depakote or Lamiclal, to regulate a patient’s brain chemicals that affect mood and behavior. This can ease or even eliminate mood swings. Some clients may also benefit from antidepressants, such as Paxil or Prozac, taken in conjunction with mood stabilizers, which can prevent further complications during the treatment of bipolar disorder.
In addition to medical and psychological treatment, clients suffering from bipolar disorder may benefit from recreational therapy or meditation. Our addiction specialists carefully balance treatment methods to provide a client with optimal care and a successful recovery.
If you have any questions about our bipolar disorder treatment, or if you need help or advice about a drug or alcohol problem, you can call our free Addiction Helpline, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 1-800-884-1727. You can also reach our Helpline by using Live Chat or through our Contact Us form.
