Finding Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by significant mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression. It typically manifests in late adolescence or early adulthood and can be a lifelong challenge.

Without proper management, bipolar disorder can significantly impact personal relationships, work commitments and overall well-being. While the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder can be intense, with an effective treatment plan, many individuals lead fulfilling lives.

At RWJBarnabas Health, we provide a comprehensive approach to treating bipolar disorder, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our dedicated team is committed to helping patients stabilize their mood, reduce symptoms and restore function.

To learn more about local behavioral health providers treating bipolar disorders near you, please call our Access Center.

Our Access Center is ready to help you find the support and treatment you need with 24-hour consultative support. Please call 1-800-300-0628 for additional information and assistance.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong psychiatric disorder causing dramatic shifts in a person's mood, energy and ability to think clearly. It causes people to alternate between episodes of depression and bouts of high energy or irritability (mania). In many people, periods of normal functioning follow episodes of either depression or mania.

Bipolar disorder is also known as bipolar affective disorder or manic-depressive illness.

Bipolar Disorder Causes

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, but researchers believe it results from a combination of various factors:

  • Genetic predisposition. Bipolar disorder often runs in families, indicating a strong genetic link.
  • Neurochemical imbalances. Neurotransmitters, the chemicals responsible for communication in the brain, are implicated in bipolar disorder.
  • Hormonal imbalances. Hormonal problems could trigger or cause bipolar disorder.
  • Environmental factors. Stressful life events, such as emotional trauma, significant loss, or high levels of stress, can trigger an initial episode in susceptible individuals or cause relapse.
  • Substance abuse. Drug and alcohol abuse do not cause bipolar disorder, but can precede the onset of symptoms or worsen the condition.
  • Brain injury. In some cases, a head injury may contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder.
  • Medications. Certain medications, particularly antidepressants, can sometimes trigger mania in individuals predisposed to bipolar disorder.

It's important to note that while these factors can contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder, none of them alone are enough to cause the disorder. It is often a complex interplay between these factors that leads to the development of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

Bipolar disorder is characterized by distinct periods of dramatically different moods and behaviors, including:

  • Alternating episodes of high energy (mania) and low mood (depression)
  • Feelings of euphoria or extreme irritability during manic phases
  • Periods of sadness or hopelessness during depressive episodes
  • Rapid speech and racing thoughts during mania
  • Decreased need for sleep when experiencing mania
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions during depressive states
  • Changes in appetite or weight associated with either phase
  • Fatigue or loss of energy, predominantly in depressive episodes
  • Engaging in risky behaviors, such as reckless driving or impulsive spending, during manic periods
  • Thoughts of death or suicide, especially during depression

These periods are known as mood episodes, which are drastically different from the moods and behaviors that are typical for the person.

Bipolar disorder affects individuals differently, and symptoms can vary in pattern, severity and frequency. Some people may experience mood changes several times a week, while others may have episodes only a few times a year.

Not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences every symptom, and the presence of these symptoms can vary from episode to episode in the same person.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seeking professional help is essential.

Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

Bipolar disorder is diagnosed by mental health professionals using a multifaceted approach that includes a detailed psychiatric evaluation of the person's mood swings, behavior and thought patterns. This assessment is supported by a review of their medical and psychiatric history, possibly supplemented by mood charting to track daily moods and sleep patterns.

Health care professionals conduct physical examinations and laboratory tests to exclude other medical conditions. The symptoms are then compared with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

People with bipolar disorder are also likely to have the following mental health conditions:

It is important to distinguish bipolar disorder from other mental health conditions, effects of substances, or medical issues through careful evaluation.

Bipolar disorder occurs equally among males and females. It often begins between the ages of 15 and 24. Diagnosis in younger populations requires additional consideration of developmental factors and may involve input from parents or guardians.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

A combination of medications and psychotherapy typically treats bipolar disorder, managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

  • Medications. These may include mood stabilizers such as lithium, antipsychotic medications, and, in some cases, antidepressants, although these are used with caution to avoid triggering manic episodes.
  • Psychotherapy. Counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family-focused therapy, and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), can be effective in managing symptoms and preventing relapse.

Bipolar disorder treatment can also include lifestyle changes such as:

  • Regular exercise
  • A balanced diet
  • Consistent sleep routine
  • Stress management
  • Participation in support groups

Severe episodes may necessitate hospitalization for safety and mood stabilization, and resistant cases could benefit from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Individuals with bipolar disorder need to work closely with their health care providers to find the most effective treatment strategy for their specific symptoms and circumstances.

Compassionate Care at RWJBarnabas Health

To learn more about local behavioral health providers treating bipolar disorders near you, please call our Access Center.

Our Access Center is ready to help you find the support and treatment you need with 24-hour consultative support. Please call 1-800-300-0628 for additional information and assistance.