It’s normal for people to experience ups and downs in life, as various circumstances and life events can make us happy or sad. However, for those who are struggling with bipolar disorder, these ups and downs are much more intense. It can be difficult for those with bipolar disorder to cope with their mental health condition, as there is a tendency to feel out of control. Men who experience bipolar disorder often try and deal with it on their own instead of asking for help. Sadly, when left untreated, bipolar disorder often worsens in terms of the severity of the symptoms.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with bipolar disorder, Recovery Bay Center offers a bipolar disorder treatment program. We are a mental health treatment facility that caters to men aged 18 and older. Bipolar disorder is a very treatable condition for most people. You are likely to see significant improvements upon entering a mood disorder treatment program. Invest in your mental health and take that first step toward a happier, healthier future. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help, you can contact us at 833.991.2955.
What is Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression or manic-depressive disorder, is a type of chronic mood disorder. It can cause intense and sudden shifts in mood, energy, behavior, and ability to function on a day-to-day basis. People struggling with bipolar disorder experience both exceedingly high and low moods, known as mania and depression. These highs and lows are markedly different from the highs and lows most people will experience. These highs and lows can last for months or even years or suddenly shift from high to low or low to high without warning.
Since bipolar disorder often worsens without proper treatment, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms. Being able to recognize the problem is the first step toward getting treatment and feeling better.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are three main types of bipolar disorder:
- Bipolar I disorder – This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by one or more episodes of mania lasting one week or longer. While most people suffering from bipolar I disorder may have episodes of depression, it is not necessary to make the diagnosis.
- Bipolar II disorder – This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by at least one period of major depression, while never experiencing the mania that is typically seen in bipolar I disorder. Instead, bipolar II disorder trends toward long episodes of depression with occasional episodes of hypomania.
- Cyclothymic Disorder or Cyclothymia – This is an unstable condition where a person experiences episodes of hypomania and mild depression for at least two years. It is milder than bipolar disorder but can develop into it over time.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder may make it difficult to maintain day-to-day activities and responsibilities. Some of the more severe symptoms may even have serious medical, professional, or personal consequences. The symptoms may be divided into the type of mood with which they are associated:
Mania
- Racing thoughts
- Quickened speech
- Lack of focus
- An inability to sleep or lack of desire to sleep
- Making snap decisions about important matters
- Impaired judgment
- Reckless behavior
- Feeling extremely optimistic or irritable
Hypomania
- Is similar to mania, but with less severe symptoms
Depression
- Severe fatigue or loss of energy
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
- Sluggish thoughts and actions
- Either sleeping too much or too little
- Inability to concentrate
- Suicidal thoughts
- Extreme feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Lack of appetite
- Sudden changes in weight
Start a Mood Disorder Treatment Program at Recovery Bay Center
If you’re struggling with bipolar disorder, you don’t need to lose hope. As severe as these symptoms may sound, there are effective treatment options available for bipolar disorder.
Recovery Bay Center offers a comprehensive range of treatment modalities to suit your specific needs. Treatment for bipolar disorder will begin with a full assessment, with mood charting so we can determine how often your mood changes. Based on the findings, we will then create a treatment plan, which may include:
- Medication to balance moods
- Maintenance medication once symptoms improve
- Residential treatment programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment for those also struggling with substance use disorders
Don’t let bipolar disorder prevent you from living a fulfilling, happy life. Instead, consider Recovery Bay Center. We’re committed to helping you heal, grow, and join a community for lifelong support. You can call us at 833.991.2955 to start healing.