order is largely unknown. Research has shown that there can be a number of factors that may contribute to the onset of BPD, including:
- Genetics – chances are increased if a parent or sibling has the disorder, but a genetic predisposition for the disorder does not mean someone will necessary develop the disorder as well.
- Stress – a stressful event such as death in the family, an illness, a difficult relationship, divorce, or financial problems may trigger manic or depressive episodes.
- Brain Structure and Function – Some evidence suggests that there is a difference in the average size or activation of some brain structures with people with bipolar disorder
It could take years to be diagnosed properly with bipolar disorder, which is why you may ask yourself “how do I know if I have bipolar?” Certain symptoms of bipolar disorder match other mental illnesses. The ups and downs of bipolar disorder can last for exceptionally long periods of time causing difficulty in pinpointing they type of disorder involved.
Because periods between cycles can last for weeks or months, untreated bipolar disorder can cause serious disruption in an individual’s life and relationships. Depressive episodes can lead to poor health and suicidal ideation, but can also mistaken for other types of depression which makes many people wonder “how do I know if I have bipolar depression?” Manic episodes can result in an individual engaging in life-endangering and risky behavior, but may also appear to be general elation, excitement, or talkativeness.
Those with bipolar disorder can also have other mental illnesses as well. Often, people with BPD may also be diagnosed with:
- Substance abuse disorders – dual diagnosis
- Eating Disorders
- Physical Health problems such as heart disease, thyroid problems and/or headaches or obesity
The Bipolar Disorder Stigma
The complexity of symptoms makes bipolar disorder difficult for many people to understand. Family, friends, coworkers, and teachers may not realize that someone is struggling with BPD and attribute symptoms to poor decision-making or a lack of self-control. which causes an elevated fear of judgment and stigma for those who experience it. Often, this stigma prevents people from seeking the help that they need.
While there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it is a highly treatable condition. Symptoms are managed in several ways, including:
- Psychotherapy – which may include family and group therapy, as well as individual counseling
- Medications – mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, antidepressants
- Self-management strategies – that include recognizing cycles of the disorder
- Complementary Health Approaches – Adequate sleep, healthy diet, regular exercise, meditation, yoga, and other holistic approaches.
Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder will greatly increase the chances of successful treatment outcomes for the individual living with BPD. Often the best thing that you can do to support your loved one with bipolar disorder is to understand what this disorder is and how it affects the individual. Other strategies for supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder include:
- Pay attention to warning signs that may identify an episode is coming on – learning what “triggers” episodes can be extremely helpful in managing symptoms.
- Avoid drugs and alcohol – using recreational drugs can cause episodes to occur more frequently
- Take medications exactly as directed. Do not give in to the temptation of stopping treatment. Do not reduce your dose of prescribed medication.
Living with bipolar disorder can take a heavy toll on your life. Our compassionate and patient mental health professionals, doctors, and therapist design individual treatment plans that for the foundation of a new tomorrow for those with bipolar disorder. We combine evidence-based treatment options, holistic therapies to personalize your treatment experience. For more information about bipolar disorder treatment, contact us today.