Bipolar disorder first appears around age 25 and is a lifelong condition, making it all the more important to seek early treatment to prevent future mood swings. At the Mental Health Clinic of Idaho in Meridian, Idaho, the caring team works closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan that gives you and your family the support you need to build a fulfilling life. Call the office at 208-506-3618 or schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment online today click here and get personalized treatment that improves your mental well-being.
Bipolar disorder causes episodes of mania and depression. There are three types of bipolar disorder, and the severity of your symptoms depends on which type you have:
Bipolar I disorder is defined by mood swings between high-energy mania and low-energy depression. Manic episodes cause severe symptoms that last at least one week and often send you to the hospital for intensive intervention.
Bipolar II disorder causes episodes of major depression and hypomania, a milder form of mania that may seem more like a positive burst of energy.
This type causes mild hypomania and depression. However, your mild symptoms can still disrupt your life because the cyclothymic disorder is defined by frequent symptoms that last at least half the time and go on for two years or longer.
Depressive episodes cause classic symptoms, including:
Manic and hypomanic episodes cause symptoms such as:
People also frequently engage in risky behaviors like overspending and driving while drinking during manic episodes.
Mood-stabilizing medications are the foundation of treatment for bipolar I and II. These medications often stop future mood swings if you stick with your medication regimen.
Your Mental Health Clinic of Idaho provider also recommends therapy, which improves your mental well-being in many ways. Therapy can help you identify signs of a pending mood swing and learn ways to prevent it.
Therapy also teaches the skills you need to manage the life challenges associated with bipolar disorder. For example, you may need help building or restoring relationships or managing strong emotions.
Many people with bipolar disorder struggle with insomnia, and the lack of sleep can trigger a mood swing. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the treatment most often recommended for insomnia.
Call the office at 208-506-3618 or schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment online today click here.