Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Signs of bipolar disorder are severe. They are different from the regular ups and downs that everyone goes through. Bipolar disorder symptoms can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and self-harm. Extreme cases of bipolar disorder can even lead to suicide.
Thankfully, those who live with bipolar disorder can seek help at a mental health treatment center in Tampa, FL. With the right treatment, they can overcome the obstacles that this condition presents and lead full, productive lives. If you or someone you love is battling bipolar disorder, please reach out to our treatment program at BoardPrep Recovery Center® today at 866.796.4720
Signs of Bipolar Disorder to Look For
People with bipolar disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called mood episodes. Each mood episode represents a drastic change from the person’s usual mood and behavior. An overly joyful or excited state is called a manic episode, and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode.
Sometimes, a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression. This is called a mixed state. People with bipolar disorder also may be explosive and irritable during a mood episode. Extreme changes in energy, activity, sleep, and behavior go along with these mood changes.
Other signs of bipolar disorder include:
- Drastic mood changes
- Talking fast or jumping from one idea to the other
- Being easily distracted
- Taking on too much or overcommitting
- Being overly restless and forming inconsistent sleeping patterns
- Behaving impulsively and having an unrealistic belief in the person’s abilities
If the person is experiencing less severe manic episodes, they might be experiencing a hypomanic episode rather than a manic episode. Hypomania is characterized by symptoms that are similar to those of manic episodes, but the behaviors are less extreme. Furthermore, people can often function well in their daily lives.
Why Is It Important to Seek Treatment
Many people with bipolar disorder don’t recognize how much their symptoms disrupt their lives. As a result, in many cases, they don’t get the care and support they need. However, as they continue struggling with this disorder, they may find themselves in legal or financial trouble. They may also experience problems in their relationships. Furthermore, as with many other mental health conditions, if the individual does not find treatment quickly, they may find their symptoms getting worse. Therefore, it’s critical to seek treatment as soon as possible when the symptoms appear.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
It is always a good idea to speak with a therapist when experiencing severe mood swings that seem to come and go or make it difficult to work. Such mood swings could, in fact, be signs of bipolar disorder. The best person to start with might be a primary care physician or therapist at a mental health treatment center.
Someone who notices the signs of bipolar disorder in a friend or loved one can also speak with a doctor about their concerns. The doctor can help find local support groups or other mental health resources. Popular treatments available for bipolar disorder include:
- Mental health treatment for professionals
- TMS therapy program
- Trauma therapy
- Drug and alcohol rehab
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Hospital services
To learn more about the signs of bipolar disorder and day-night drug rehab programs in Tampa, FL, contact us today. Take this opportunity to make a change and forge ahead to a brighter, sober future. We offer comprehensive treatment for both bipolar disorder and addictions that may stem from bipolar disorder. For more information, call BoardPrep Recovery Center® now at 866.796.4720, or contact us online.
