Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Recognizing the signs of bipolar disorder early can lead to effective treatment and improved quality of life. At True Life Center in San Diego, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder treatment at True Life Center can aid in long-term recovery. Get in touch with us today for more information by calling 866.420.1792.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood episodes can profoundly impact daily functioning and overall well-being. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can be varied, resulting in different classifications for each:
- Bipolar I disorder – Defined by manic episodes lasting at least seven days or by manic symptoms severe enough to require immediate hospital care, usually accompanied by depressive episodes.
- Bipolar II disorder – Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not full-blown manic episodes.
- Cyclothymic disorder – A milder form involving periods of hypomanic symptoms as well as periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years.
Understanding these forms is essential for recognizing the signs early and seeking appropriate bipolar disorder treatment.
Identifying the Signs of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is characterized by both manic and depressive episodes. From seemingly very happy and lifted moods to intensely down or depressed states, the signs of this disorder are varied.
Manic Episodes
Manic episodes are marked by elevated mood, increased energy, and unusual behavior. Common symptoms include:
- Increased energy and activity – Feeling unusually energetic, hyperactive, or agitated.
- Euphoria or irritability – Experiencing an excessively elevated or irritable mood.
- Rapid speech and racing thoughts – Talking very quickly, jumping from one idea to another.
- Impulsivity – Engaging in risky behaviors, such as spending sprees, reckless driving, or unprotected sex.
- Decreased need for sleep – Feeling rested after only a few hours of sleep.
These seemingly sudden or erratic behaviors can lead to dangerous situations for the person struggling with symptoms and for the people they love. It’s important to seek treatment right away if you’ve noticed any of these signs of bipolar disorder.
Depressive Episodes
Conversely, depressive episodes may be characterized by very different behaviors and can significantly impair daily life:
- Persistent sadness – Feeling hopeless, tearful, or empty.
- Fatigue – Experiencing a constant lack of energy and motivation.
- Loss of interest – Losing interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Changes in appetite and weight – Eating more or less than usual, leading to weight gain or loss.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt – Having excessive self-blame or guilt.
- Difficulty concentrating – Finding it hard to focus, remember things, or make decisions.
- Thoughts of death or suicide – Contemplating or attempting suicide.
These behaviors can make the individual experiencing them feel hopeless. Feeling like nothing will ever be good again or that life isn’t worth living is extremely debilitating. It’s critical to seek effective treatment if you’re experiencing any of these bipolar disorder symptoms.
Mixed Episodes
Mixed episodes involve simultaneous symptoms of both mania and depression. These can be particularly challenging to identify and treat, as they may present symptoms like agitation, insomnia, and significant changes in appetite.
Additional Signs of Bipolar Disorder
There are some additional indicators of bipolar disorder. Symptoms may also include:
- Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Weight fluctuations – Significant changes in weight due to altered eating habits.
- Relationship strain – Trouble maintaining healthy relationships due to mood instability.
Becoming aware of these additional symptoms can help you identify whether you or a loved one is experiencing bipolar disorder and enable you to reach out for prompt professional guidance.
How Bipolar Disorder Manifests in Women
Since the signs of bipolar disorder in women may look differently than they do in men, it’s important to be aware of how they manifest so that an accurate diagnosis can be made and treatment isn’t delayed. Some of the unique challenges facing women are:
- Hormonal influences – Hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can influence mood episodes.
- Rapid cycling – Women may have more rapid cycling between highs and lows.
- Comorbid conditions – Conditions like anxiety and eating disorders are more commonly seen alongside bipolar disorder in women.
Understanding these key differences is crucial for providing effective treatment and creating a gender-specific approach for women experiencing signs of bipolar disorder.
Contact True Life Center for Bipolar Disorder Treatment
True Life Center stands out for its unique approach to mental wellness, including our neurobiological integrative care, which combines evidence-based practices and holistic therapies that consider the whole person—not just your symptoms.
Our experts are trained to provide compassionate, supportive care in a calming environment that fosters healing and personal growth. From the beginning, your treatment will be in the hands of a team of full-time doctors, psychiatrists, and psychologists who collaborate to develop effective, individualized care plans.
We are patient-centered. We are you-centered. Contact True Life Center today at 866.420.1792 to take your first step toward healing. You can also submit our online contact form, and a member of our team will be in contact.
