Did you know bipolar disorder is the sixth leading cause of disability worldwide? Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.
If you think you or someone you love struggles with bipolar disorder, it is vital to seek professional help. There are various effective treatment options for bipolar disorder, and working with a mental health treatment center can help you develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs. Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers offers bipolar disorder treatment that is highly customized for each patient. Call 479.309.1427 to inquire about our programs and services today.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme highs and lows in mood. People with bipolar disorder often experience periods of mania, where they feel an exaggerated sense of well-being and energy, followed by periods of depression, where they feel hopeless and helpless. Symptoms of bipolar disorder include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability or unusual agitation
- Grandiose thinking
- Mood swings that are more extreme than regular ups and downs
- Poor concentration
- Uncharacteristic risky behavior
Bipolar disorder can be challenging to diagnose because symptoms vary from person to person. Some people with bipolar disorder only experience manic episodes, while others experience both manic and depressive episodes. It is also common for people with bipolar disorder to have periods of stable mood in between episodes of mania and depression.
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, so it is believed that there is a genetic component to the condition. However, not everyone with a family member who has bipolar disorder will develop the condition themselves. It is thought that environmental factors, such as stress, can trigger bipolar episodes in people genetically predisposed to the condition.
Bipolar disorder can be debilitating, with its symptoms making it difficult to maintain healthy relationships, hold down a job, or even get out of bed in the morning. Thankfully, there are treatment options available for bipolar disorder.
Ways of Treating Bipolar Disorder
Medication
One of the most common treatment options for bipolar disorder is medication. Mood stabilizing medications can help to even out the highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder, making it easier for sufferers to lead relatively everyday lives. Commonly prescribed mood stabilizers include lithium carbonate, valproic acid, and carbamazepine.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can also be an effective treatment option for bipolar disorder. In psychotherapy sessions, patients can learn how to manage their condition and develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with their symptoms. Psychotherapy can be done on an individual basis or in a group setting.
Inpatient or Residential Intervention
In some cases, people struggling with bipolar disorder may need to stay at a treatment center to receive treatment. This is usually only necessary if the person is experiencing a severe episode of mania or depression and is in danger of harming themselves or others. During a stay at a hospital or another treatment center, patients receive round-the-clock care from medical professionals who can help them stabilize their mood and get their condition under control.
Learn More About Bipolar Disorder Treatment at the Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers
If you or someone you love is struggling with bipolar disorder, know that treatment options are available. Medication, psychotherapy, and inpatient intervention are all effective methods for treating bipolar disorder. If you want to learn more about bipolar disorder treatment at the Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers, Arkansas, call 479.309.1427.