Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that requires professional treatment and management, affecting an estimated 40 million people globally. Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, from periods of mania, feeling high and energetic, to depression, feeling low and sad. These mood swings can interfere with a person’s daily life, relationships and work. There are several types of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar 1 disorder — Bipolar 1 disorder is characterized by at least one manic episode, which is a period of abnormally elevated, expansive or irritable mood, and at least one major depressive episode. Manic episodes can last for at least a week and also involve symptoms like:
• • Increased energy
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts
  • Impulsive behaviors
  • Delusions
  • Hallucinations
• Bipolar 2 disorder — Bipolar 2 disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode. Hypomania is less severe than mania and isn’t as intense. While it can be less severe concerning mania, the depression can be more severe. It can still also have a significant impact on a person’s daily functioning. Hypomania involves:
  • Elevated mood
  • Increased energy
  • Decreased need for sleep

• Cyclothymic disorder — Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder that is characterized by a number of periods of hypomania and depressive symptoms. However, these symptoms don’t meet the full criteria for a manic or major depressive episode. These mood swings last for at least two years in adults and one year in children and adolescents. 

Bipolar disorder can happen at any age, but it’s usually diagnosed during a person’s teenage years or early 20s. Symptoms can vary from person to person and also vary over time. 

Complications of untreated bipolar disorder

If left untreated, bipolar disorder can lead to a wide range of serious complications that can affect various aspects of a person’s life, including:’

• Work or academic problems
• Social and relationship problems
• Substance use
• Risk of chronic conditions
• Poor physical health
• Financial problems
• Legal issues
• Functional impairment
• Co-occurring mental health conditions
• Existing conditions getting worse
• Cognitive impairment
• Suicidal ideation and behavior

These complications and challenges showcase the vital importance of seeking proper care and management of bipolar disorder. With proper treatment and management, bipolar disorder doesn’t have to control your life. 

Types of medication available to help manage bipolar disorder

Medication is often a cornerstone in bipolar disorder treatment and management. Commonly prescribed medications include:’

• Mood stabilizers — Mood stabilizers are medications that can help regulate mood swings and can prevent manic and depressive episodes. Commonly prescribed mood stabilizers include:
• Lithium — Lithium is considered a classic mood stabilizer. It can effectively reduce the intensity and frequency of manic and depressive episodes. However, it requires very careful monitoring due to potential side effects. 
• Depakote — Depakote is an anticonvulsant medication that can also be used as a mood stabilizer. It can be effective in helping to manage both manic and depressive symptoms. 
• Tegretol — Tegretol is another anticonvulsant medication with mood-stabilizing properties. It can be prescribed to help rapid cycling bipolar disorder. 
• Antipsychotics — Antipsychotic medications help control symptoms of mania, like delusions and hallucinations. They can also be used to treat depressive symptoms. Commonly prescribed antipsychotics are:
• Zyprexa — Zyprexa can be effective in helping to manage manic and depressive symptoms. 
• Seroquel — Seroquel can be used to treat manic and depressive episodes. It has a lower risk of weight gain compared to some other antipsychotic medications.
• Risperdal — Risperdal can be effective in helping to manage manic symptoms but can also carry a higher risk of side effects. 
• Antidepressants — While antidepressants can be helpful in managing depressive symptoms, they should be used cautiously for bipolar disorder due to the risk of triggering manic episodes. They are most often used in combination with mood stabilizers. 

Other types of treatments that can be beneficial in bipolar disorder management

In addition to medication management, there are a variety of other treatment approaches that can complement medication, including:

• Psychotherapy — Therapy can play an important role in the treatment and management of bipolar disorder. It can provide a safe space for you to discuss any feelings, thoughts or behaviors that are causing you issues. Using evidence-based techniques, your therapist can help you understand and work through problems that are hindering your ability to thrive. Common types of psychotherapy that can be beneficial for bipolar disorder include:
• • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT)
  • Family-focused therapy (FFT)
  • Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) — ECT is a medical treatment that involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain. It can be effective for severe cases of bipolar depression that haven’t responded well to other treatments. 
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) — TMS is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain that are related to mood regulation. It has been shown to be effective and is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved in treating depression, and may also be beneficial for bipolar depression.  
• Lifestyle changes — To help support medication management and therapy, incorporating healthy habits is essential to boost your overall well-being. Lifestyle changes that can be beneficial include:
  • Regular exercise
  • Nutritious diet
  • Adequate sleep
  • Stress management

It’s essential to remember that finding the best treatment approach for you may take time. Working closely with a mental health professional or health care provider is essential to help you manage your bipolar disorder effectively. 

Lightfully Behavioral Health can be your partner in managing your bipolar disorder

At Lightfully, we understand the unique challenges you can face by living with bipolar disorder. It can be a complex and challenging condition, but with the right treatment and support, it’s possible for you to manage your symptoms effectively and see an improvement in your overall quality of life. We can help by providing personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Using a unique framework of evidence-based techniques for whole-person-centered care provided by our deeply compassionate experts, we can work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that empowers you to reach your full potential and long-term mental wellness. 

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, contact us. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.