Bipolar Disorder

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only, and does not replace expert medical or mental health advice. Bipolar disorder requires a comprehensive psychiatric and physical evaluation. So, always refer to a board-certified physician or mental health specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In case of emergencies, call 9-1-1 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a chronic mental health condition that is characterized by extreme mood swings. The emotional highs are known as mania or hypomania. Hypomania is less extreme than mania. The emotional lows are known as depression. It affects nearly 3.1 million in the U.S. and 37 million worldwide.

When your mood shifts toward mania or hypomania, you may feel unusually energetic, euphoric, or irritable. When you become depressed, you may feel sad, empty, or hopeless and lose interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed. These mood swings can impact your energy, sleep, judgment, behavior, and ability to think clearly.

Episodes of mania and depression may occur rarely or many times throughout the year. Each episode typically lasts several days. Some experience long stretches of emotional stability between episodes, while others shift between moods more frequently or experience both at the same time.

While bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it can be managed. With the right treatment plan, typically involving a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications, many of those with bipolar disorder lead stable, full, and meaningful lives.

At the NuView Treatment Center, our clinical team collaborates with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific needs and goals.

There are several types of bipolar and related disorders. Understanding which type you have is crucial to getting the right care.

• Bipolar I Disorder: In bipolar I disorder, you have at least one full-blown manic episode, which may come before or after a hypomanic or depressive episode. In some cases, mania may lead to a break from reality, known as psychosis.
• Bipolar II Disorder: In bipolar II disorder, you have at least one hypomanic episode and one depressive episode, but never a full manic episode. Bipolar II is not a milder form of bipolar I; it is a separate diagnosis. Those with bipolar II may spend longer periods in depression.
• Cyclothymia: You have experienced at least two years of recurring periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are less severe than major depression.
• Other Types: These include bipolar and related disorders caused by certain substances, medications, or medical conditions such as thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can be understood through manic, hypomanic, and depressive symptoms.

Mania and hypomania share the same symptoms, but mania is more severe. It leads to more noticeable problems in school, work, and daily functioning. Mania may also lead to a break from reality (psychosis) and sometimes requires a hospital stay.

A manic or hypomanic episode is characterized by three or more of these symptoms:

• Being much more active, energetic, or agitated than is typical for you
• Feeling overly self-confident or having an inflated sense of yourself
• Needing much less sleep than what is normal for you, without feeling tired
• Talking faster or more than normal
• Having racing thoughts or jumping quickly from topic to topic
• Being easily distracted
• Making risky or impulsive decisions, such as excessive spending, imprudent financial choices, or reckless sexual behavior.

The symptoms of a depressive episode are as follows:

A depressive episode is characterized by symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily life, including school, work, social activities, and relationships. An episode includes five or more of these symptoms:

• Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or tearful most of the day. Children and teens may seem irritable or agitated instead.
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive, inappropriate guilt
• Losing interest in or pleasure from most activities
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Feeling physically slowed down or restless
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Significant changes in weight or appetite
• Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
• Thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death.

If anyone is experiencing thoughts of suicide or death, please contact 9-8-8 in the U.S. or your national helplines immediately.

Bipolar disorder can often be mistaken for and treated as major depressive disorder because of the depressive symptoms. Some reviews have suggested that an estimated 40% with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed and treated for depression instead.

Bipolar disorder can be harder to recognize in children and teenagers. Mood changes may be more frequent, less clearly defined, and more easily confused with typical developmental behavior or the effects of stress or trauma.

In fact, bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among children and adolescents. ADHD is often overdiagnosed in children and adolescents, whereas the prevalence of bipolar disorder can be underestimated despite the fact that it can also begin early.

The most noticeable sign of bipolar disorder in young people is severe mood swings that differ markedly from their general temperament. A psychiatric evaluation by a licensed and experienced mental health practitioner is crucial to a proper diagnosis.

While we do not know the exact reason for bipolar disorder, experts have suggested some risk factors, such as genetics and biological differences.

Bipolar disorder is more common among those who have a close relative, a parent or sibling, with the condition.

Those with bipolar disorder also seem to have physical differences in brain structure and chemistry. The significance of these changes is still being reviewed.

So, some of the major risk factors for bipolar disorder are as follows:

• Having a parent, sibling, or close relative with bipolar disorder
• Physical differences in brain structure and chemistry
• Periods of trauma or prolonged stress
• Misuse of alcohol and drugs.

When left untreated, bipolar disorder can impact nearly every area of life, including:

• Problems related to alcohol or drug misuse, which often develop alongside the disorder
• Poor performance at work or school
• Damaged relationships, legal problems, or financial hardship
• Suicide or suicide attempts.

If anyone is experiencing thoughts of suicide or death, please contact 9-8-8 in the U.S. or your national helplines immediately.

It is common for bipolar disorder to occur at the same time as other mental health or medical conditions. These may overlap with bipolar symptoms or make treatment more complex:

• Anxiety disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Eating disorders
• Borderline personality disorder
• Substance use disorders (alcohol or drugs)
• Physical health conditions such as thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, or chronic pain.

Identifying and treating all co-occurring conditions is crucial for a well-rounded healing experience.

Many of those with bipolar disorder do not recognize how much their mood swings are impacting their lives and the lives of those around them. Some may even enjoy the energy and confidence that comes with a hypomanic or manic episode, until the inevitable crash leaves them depressed, exhausted, or dealing with damaged relationships and real-world consequences.

If you are experiencing symptoms of mania, hypomania, or depression, reach out to your primary healthcare provider or mental health practitioner. Bipolar disorder does not get better on its own. But with proper treatment, symptoms can be brought under control.

To determine whether you have bipolar disorder, licensed clinicians will conduct a comprehensive psychiatric and physical evaluation.

A licensed mental health practitioner will conduct a thorough evaluation of your mood history, symptoms, and behavior patterns. You may be asked a series of questions, and with your consent, family members or close friends may also be invited to provide input.

As some medical conditions and medications can lead to symptoms that resemble bipolar disorder, a medical history review and coordination with your primary healthcare provider may be recommended.

You may also be asked to keep a daily record of your moods, energy levels, sleep, and other factors. This can clarify the pattern of your symptoms and inform treatment planning and decisions.

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but it is treatable. Your clinical team will consist of board-certified psychiatrists, licensed psychotherapists, counselors, social workers, and other specialists, depending on your unique needs.

Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Based on your symptoms, history, and circumstances, your care plan may entail one or more of the following:

Medications

Medication is typically a cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment. Finding the right combination may take time, and your provider will work with you closely throughout that process. Commonly used medications include:

• Mood Stabilizers: These medications control manic and hypomanic episodes and may also provide relief from depressive symptoms. Commonly used mood stabilizers are lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine.
• Antipsychotics: Many antipsychotic medications have mood-stabilizing properties and are used to treat bipolar disorder. They may be used on their own or alongside a mood stabilizer. Some common ones used are olanzapine, quetiapine, aripiprazole, lurasidone, and cariprazine.
• Antidepressants: When prescribed for bipolar disorder, antidepressants are typically used alongside a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic to reduce the risk of triggering a manic episode.
• Antianxiety Medications: Short-term use of certain medications may help with anxiety or sleep disruptions during acute episodes.

Finding the right medication often requires proper medication management. Your doctor will prescribe and adjust medications one at a time to understand the effect of each one. Some medications require weeks to reach their full effect, and monitoring may be needed.

Do not stop or reduce your medications on your own. Doing so can lead to withdrawal effects or a return of symptoms, including severe mania, depression, or thoughts of suicide. If you have concerns about your medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Psychotherapy

Therapy is a vital part of bipolar disorder treatment. It can be provided in individual, group, or family settings to enable you to understand your condition, develop coping skills, and maintain stability over time.

Some common therapies involve:

• Psychoeducation: Learning about bipolar disorder allows you and your family members to understand the condition, recognize warning signs, and come together as a team to foster your healing and well-being.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT enables you to identify unhealthy thinking and behavioral patterns and replace them with more constructive ones. It can also enable you to recognize the triggers of your mood episodes and develop practical coping strategies.
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): IPSRT focuses on stabilizing daily rhythms, including activity, meals, and sleep, as consistent routines can regulate mood in those with bipolar disorder.
• Family-Focused Therapy: Involving loved ones in treatment can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and foster a strong network that will respond effectively when mood shifts occur.

Treating Co-Occurring Substance Use

Alcohol and drug misuse are common among those with bipolar disorder and can significantly complicate treatment. Some studies have estimated a lifetime prevalence of 40% of co-occurring bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.

Treating both bipolar disorder and co-occurring substance use disorders at the same time with medication, therapy, and peer community leads to better outcomes and a well-rounded recovery as compared to treating each condition in isolation.

Lifestyle and Self-Management

Medication and therapy are most effective when used alongside healthy living practices. Steps that can make a meaningful difference involve:

• Proactively learn about your condition. The more you understand bipolar disorder, the better equipped you are to manage it. Psychoeducation is a key to self-management.
• Develop a proper routine. Regular meals, sleep, and physical activity play a role in stabilizing mood. A daily schedule is not just good for your body; it is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder.
• Track your moods. Keeping a daily log of your mood, energy, sleep, and notable events can enable you and your clinical team to identify patterns, recognize early warning signs, and adjust your plan when needed.
• Practice stress management. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, or regular exercise can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience over time.
• Develop a strong social network. Trusted family members and friends who understand your condition can provide a shoulder to lean on and an important outside perspective when mood changes begin.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs. Substance use is one of the most significant drivers of instability in bipolar disorder. If you are struggling to quit on your own, integrated treatment may be needed.

NuView Treatment Center provides evidence-based care for those living with bipolar disorder. Our approach combines expert clinical oversight with personalized treatment planning, delivered in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment.

What NuView Treatment Center Offers?

• Personalized, Integrated Care: Our team of board-certified psychiatrists, licensed therapists, counselors, and case managers collaborates with you to treat all aspects of your mental health - including any co-occurring substance use concerns or other conditions that may be affecting your well-being.
• A Full Range of Treatment Levels: From weekly outpatient therapy to intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and partial hospitalization programs (PHP), we offer a full continuum of outpatient structured care you need at each step of your recovery. Treatment plans evolve as your needs change.
• Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders: We specialize in treating bipolar disorder alongside co-occurring substance use disorders. Many come to us with both conditions, and our integrated model of care is designed to treat them together.
• Family Involvement: We recognize that bipolar disorder impacts the entire family. We offer family education and family therapy to enable your loved ones to understand the condition, strengthen communication, and become effective partners in your care.
• Aftercare: We also offer ongoing care. Managing bipolar disorder is a journey. Our team collaborates with you to build the skills, routines, and social network systems that promote lasting stability well beyond the treatment setting.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, you do not have to navigate this on your own. Getting a pepper diagnosis and connecting with the right treatment is the most important first step.

At NuView, we are always here for you. We see you, and we want to hear from you.

Call (323) 307-7997.

What is the age of onset for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is typically diagnosed at 25 years of age.

Is bipolar disorder more common in men or women?

Bipolar disorder impacts men and women at equal rates, but women are more likely to experience rapid cycling and depressive episodes, while men tend to have more manic episodes.

Does bipolar disorder get worse with age if untreated?

For many, untreated bipolar disorder tends to worsen over time, with episodes becoming more frequent, longer, or harder to recover from.

Can someone with bipolar disorder live without medication long-term?

It is rare and generally not recommended, as most require lifelong medication to ensure management and prevent relapse.

Can diet and nutrition affect bipolar symptoms?

Emerging studies have indicated that anti-inflammatory diets, omega-3 fatty acids, and gut health may have a modest positive impact on mood stability. However, diet alone is never a substitute for clinical treatment.

How long does it typically take to get bipolar disorder under control after starting treatment?

Most begin to see meaningful symptom stabilization within a few weeks to a few months, but finding the right medication combination and developing effective coping skills can take some time.

How much does bipolar disorder treatment cost?

Bipolar disorder treatment costs may vary. Outpatient treatment is significantly less expensive than hospitalization, but hospitalization may be needed for severe cases. Identifying early warning signs and reaching out early significantly reduces treatment costs and improves outcomes.