Imagine riding an emotional roller coaster that takes you from the highest peaks of excitement to the lowest valleys of pure despair. Every. Single. Day. Well, this is the reality for millions of people living with bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health disorder causing dramatic mood and energy changes. It alternates between manic episodes of high energy or euphoria and depressive episodes marked by deep sadness, indifference, or feelings of hopelessness.

Whether you’re living with bipolar disorder or supporting a loved one, I’m here to help you make sense of this mental health condition.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects approximately 2.8% of adults in the United States alone. It is characterized by mood swings and energy changes that are much more intense than what most people normally go through. Someone with this condition experiences unpredictable highs and lows that can make simple daily tasks feel overwhelming.

Unlike the general idea people have, bipolar disorder isn’t just about mood swings or being “moody.” It’s a complex neurobiological condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, though some people experience symptoms earlier or later in life.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder

This is what many people generally think of when they hear “bipolar disorder.” This type of bipolar disorder is defined by the experience of a manic episode that either lasts a week or longer, or that it is so severe to the point that the person needs immediate hospitalization. During these manic episodes, people might feel invincible, go on spending sprees, make risky decisions, or experience psychosis. Most people with Bipolar I also experience major depressive episodes, though they’re not required for diagnosis.

Bipolar II Disorder

Often misunderstood as a “milder” form of bipolar disorder, Bipolar II is defined by cycles of depressive episodes and hypomania. Even though the manic symptoms aren’t as extreme as those in Bipolar I, the depressive episodes can be much more intense and usually tend to last for a longer period. People with Bipolar II often struggle with prolonged periods of depression that can make it really difficult to keep up with work, connect with others, and to take care of daily responsibilities.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymia is a condition that falls under the bipolar spectrum. People with this condition go through many periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms over at least two years (one year in children and adolescents).Even though these symptoms aren’t intense enough to be classified as full-blown hypomanic or depressive episodes, they can still make everyday life and maintaining relationships difficult.

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Signs and Symptoms

Manic Episodes

During manic episodes, a person might experience:

• Unusual extreme happiness, energy, or are easily irritated for at least one week
• Inflated self-esteem or feeling unusually important
• Decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
• More talkative than usual or feeling a strong need to keep talking
• Racing or jumbled thoughts, jumping from one idea to another
• Being much more active than normal or feeling restless
• Getting involved in risky behaviors without considering the consequences

Depressive Episodes

The depressive phase can include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Losing interest or not enjoying activities that were once fun or important
• Significant changes in appetite and weight
• Insomnia or sleeping too much
• Feeling physically restless or moving more slowly than usual
• Feeling extremely tired or lacking energy
• Feeling worthless or having a lot of guilt
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Understanding the Causes

The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t fully understood, but research suggests it’s a combination of several factors:

Genetic Factors

There’s a strong genetic link to bipolar disorder, so it is often passed down through families. If you have a close family member—like a parent, sibling, or child—with the condition, your risk of developing it is much higher. However, even with a family history of bipolar disorder, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll end up with it, and many people with bipolar disorder don’t have any family history of it

Brain Structure and Chemistry

Research has shown subtle differences in brain structure and function among people with bipolar disorder. These differences affect the brain’s ability to regulate mood, energy, and activity levels. Neurotransmitters – chemical messengers in the brain – also play a really important role in regulating mood and may function differently in people with bipolar disorder.

Environmental Triggers

A variety of environmental factors can trigger episodes in people who are genetically at risk for bipolar disorder. These might include:

• Severe stress or trauma
• Major life changes (positive or negative)
• Drug or alcohol use
• Sleep disruptions
• Seasonal changes

Diagnosis and Treatment

Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Mental health professionals use several tools and criteria:

Diagnostic Process

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Physical examination to rule out medical conditions
• Mood charting to track patterns over time
• Family history assessment
• Evaluation using DSM-5 criteria

Online Self-Assessment Tools

Thanks to the internet, you can now take free online screenings for various mental health conditions.

There is an online self-assessment tool for bipolar disorder that offers initial insights into potential bipolar disorder symptoms.

These self-assessment tools aren’t substitutes for definitive medical diagnosis. A proper diagnosis of any mental health condition requires an in-person assessment from a qualified medical expert.

Treatment Approaches

Effective treatment of bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of:

Medication

Different types of medications may be prescribed:

• Mood stabilizers like  lithium or valproate
• Antipsychotic medications
• Antidepressants (usually in combination with mood stabilizers)
• Anti-anxiety medications as needed

Psychotherapy

Various forms of therapy can help:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhealthy thought patterns
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy to establish stable daily routines
• Family-focused therapy to improve family relationships and support
• Psychoeducation to better understand the condition

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How to Thrive While Living with Bipolar Disorder

Even though bipolar disorder is a condition that you’ll live with for your entire life, many people learn to manage it successfully and live lives that are both fulfilling and satisfying. The key is to come up with a comprehensive management strategy that works for your specific situation.

Lifestyle Management

• Maintaining regular sleep patterns – aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and try to go to bed and wake up at the same times
• Following a structured daily routine to help stabilize mood cycles
• Engaging in regular exercise – at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week
• Practicing stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs, which can trigger episodes or interfere with medications
• Building a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare providers

Creating a Wellness Toolbox

Creating a personal wellness toolbox can help you manage symptoms and prevent episodes. Consider including:

• A mood tracking app, printable tracker (see below) or journal to identify patterns and triggers
• Contact information for your healthcare team and support network
• A list of early warning signs for both manic and depressive episodes
• Healthy coping strategies that work for you
• A crisis plan for emergency situations

Free Printable Yearly Mood Tracker

Managing bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, but a simple habit like tracking your mood can give you valuable insights into your mental health.

As mentioned above, mood tracking is a tool for identifying patterns and triggers–you can use this free Yearly Mood Tracker as part of your “Wellness Toolbox.” It lets you record how you feel each day, giving you a clearer picture of your emotional patterns. The notes section is useful for tracking important details of stressors and triggers, or medications that may impact your mood.

Download your free printable below and start tracking today!

Supporting Someone with Bipolar Disorder

If you’re helping someone with bipolar disorder, your support makes a big difference in their recovery as they learn how to manage it.

Here are some ways to help help someone living with bipolar disorder:

Understanding and Communication

• Learn about bipolar disorder so you can understand what they are going through
• Listen without judgment and offer emotional support
• Encourage them to stick with their treatment plan
• Help them stick to regular routines in their daily life
• Be patient because recovery and finding stability takes time

Recognizing Warning Signs

Learn to recognize signs that might indicate an episode is coming soon, such as:

• Changes in their sleep patterns or energy levels
• Shifts in their mood or behavior
• Increased irritability or signs of restlessness
• Changes in spending habits or risk-taking behavior
• Withdrawing from social activities

Taking Care of Yourself

Supporting someone with bipolar disorder can be tough, so remember to:

• Set healthy boundaries so you don’t get too overwhelmed or burned out
• Join support groups for families and caregivers
• Take time for your own self-care
• Seek professional help if you feel you need the extra support

Moving Forward with Awareness and Support

Understanding bipolar disorder is the first step toward managing it effectively. The journey with bipolar disorder is challenging but it doesn’t mean that every day will be a struggle. With proper treatment, the right support, and good self-management strategies, people with bipolar disorder can live stable, productive, and fulfilling lives.

If you or someone you know might be showing signs of bipolar disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness – it’s a step toward taking control of your mental health and improving your quality of life.

You are not alone in this journey, and help is available when you need it.

How do you manage your bipolar symptoms? Let us know in the comments.

References

• Bipolar Disorder – National Institute of Mental Health
• Bipolar Disorder – Cleveland Clinic
• Cyclothymia – Cleveland Clinic
• Mania-related effects on structural brain changes in bipolar disorder – a narrative review of the evidence – Molecular Psychiatry
• Understanding Bipolar Disorder – Healthline

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