BIPOLAR DISORDER

What people get wrong about Bipolar Disorder

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There are many misconceptions about bipolar disorder, a mental health condition that causes extreme shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Here are common misconceptions about bipolar disorder:

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​Misconception: Bipolar disorder is the same as having mood swings.

Fact: While everyone experiences ups and downs in their mood, the mood changes associated with bipolar disorder are much more severe and can significantly disrupt a person's daily life. Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated or irritable mood) and depression. These episodes can last for several days or weeks and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in sleep patterns, energy levels, and behavior.

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Misconception: Bipolar disorder is rare.

Fact: Bipolar disorder is actually quite common, affecting approximately 2.8% of the U.S. population. It can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in a person's late teenage years or early 20s.

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Misconception: People with bipolar disorder are dangerous or violent.

Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that people with bipolar disorder are more likely to be violent or dangerous. In fact, people with bipolar disorder are more likely to be the victims of violence and abuse than the perpetrators.

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Misconception: Bipolar disorder cannot be treated.

Fact: While there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it is a treatable condition. .....Treatment usually involves a combination of medication and therapy, and can help .....individuals with bipolar disorder manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

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Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and behavior. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania or hypomania, which are periods of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy and activity levels, and impulsive or reckless behavior. They may also experience episodes of depression, which are characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy.

Bipolar disorder is a serious condition that can significantly

disrupt a person's daily life, but it is also treatable. 

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Causes of Bipolar Disorder

It is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors.

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• Genetic factors: Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, which suggests that there is a genetic component to the condition. People who have a family history of bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

• Environmental factors: Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one or financial problems, can trigger the onset of bipolar disorder or cause a relapse in people who already have the condition.

• Biological factors: Abnormalities in brain structure and function may be involved in the development of bipolar disorder. For example, research has found that people with bipolar disorder may have differences in the way certain chemicals in the brain (such as serotonin and dopamine) function.

 

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

 

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (manic episodes) and lows (depressive episodes). These mood swings can be severe and can affect a person's ability to function in their daily life.

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Symptoms of manic episodes may include:​

• Abnormally elevated or irritable mood

• Increased energy and activity levels

• Racing thoughts and rapid speech

• Impulsivity and poor judgment

• Decreased need for sleep

• Increased risk-taking behavior

• Delusions or hallucinations

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Symptoms of depressive episodes may include:​

• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Insomnia or excessive sleep

• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

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It's important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder will experience the same

symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

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How to Manage Bipolar Disorder

 

It is important to work with a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Some strategies that may be helpful in managing bipolar disorder include:

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1. Taking medications as prescribed: Many people with bipolar disorder benefit from taking mood-stabilizing medications, such as lithium or valproic acid, as well as atypical antipsychotics. It is important to take these medications exactly as prescribed and to follow up with your healthcare provider regularly to ensure that the treatment is working effectively.

2. Sticking to a consistent routine: Having a consistent daily routine, including regular sleep patterns, can help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. This may involve setting a consistent bedtime, waking up at the same time every day, and scheduling activities throughout the day.

3. Engaging in healthy behaviors: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress through activities such as meditation or yoga can all help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder.

4. Seeking support: It can be helpful to have a support system of family and friends who can provide emotional support and help you manage your condition. Joining a support group or seeking therapy can also be helpful.

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It's important to work with a mental health professional to determine the most effective treatment plan. A combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes is often the most effective approach. It's also important to be patient and to understand that recovery from any illness can take time. Salvage Psychiatry is here for you. You can connect with a mental health provider by booking an appointment or calling (818) 736-8939.