When someone first experiences the extreme highs or lows of bipolar disorder, it can be very confusing and disorienting. They might have a burst of positive energy suddenly and for no apparent reason, and engage in riskier behaviors than they would otherwise. Or they might slip into a deep depression and start taking antidepressants, which can sometimes actually make bipolar symptoms worse.

Unfortunately, some people’s first experiences with bipolar disorder come in the midst of a personal crisis. Stress from a demanding job, advanced academic program or turbulent relationship can bring out emotions and impulses that seem impossible to overcome. 

Residential Treatment is often an important first step after stabilizing from an acute crisis situation. There are some aspects of Residential Treatment that can particularly benefit people with bipolar disorder. This article will outline the top 10 benefits people with bipolar disorder can expect from Residential Treatment.

10 benefits Residential Treatment Centers offer people with bipolar disorder

It’s not uncommon for cases of bipolar disorder to be misdiagnosed as major depressive disorder (MDD), an acute psychotic episode or other related conditions. No two people will experience the same exact pattern of mood episodes, and bipolar disorder can also come along with other co-occurring conditions. That’s why people with bipolar disorder need comprehensive treatment that’s responsive to their individual needs and goals. 

When people with bipolar disorder find a residential program where they can thrive, the benefits are life changing. Here are the top 10 benefits a Residential Treatment Center can offer people with bipolar disorder:

• Help from people who understand — In a great residential program, you have around-the-clock support from nurses and a care team. If you have co-occurring mental health disorders or medical conditions, they can help with your entire wellness regimen.
• Time to slow down and reflect — The structured environment of a residential program helps individuals with bipolar disorder establish and maintain daily routines, manage their triggers and develop personalized self-care strategies. 
• Regular mood checks — Staying aware of your mood may not come naturally to you. That’s OK and totally normal! Participating in a residential program will get you in the habit of checking in with yourself at all hours of the day. 
• Compassionate support during manic episodes — The clinicians, nurses and other clients in Residential Treatment will get that you’re not you when you’re experiencing a mood episode. Receiving that kind of understanding from others can help you develop self-compassion.
• Support for unpredictable mood swings — Clinicians, nurses and Client Care Techs are always ready to respond in ways that support the work you’re doing.
• Medication management — Once a medication regimen has been implemented, ongoing monitoring is crucial. This includes regular visits with a qualified healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the medication, monitor for side effects, and make adjustments to the dosage or type of medication as needed.
• Empowering you with holistic wellness strategies — In Residential Treatment, you’ll learn valuable skills to manage your well-being, including staying active, eating healthily, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and practicing self-care. These strategies are key not only for managing your condition but also for enhancing your overall quality of life.
• Connection with people who understand — The people you meet in Residential Treatment can turn into lifelong friends. You’ll have deep, honest conversations with others who are on a similar path to recovery.
• Family involvement and education — Residential Treatment Programs often include family therapy sessions to educate loved ones about bipolar disorder and how they can help. These sessions provide a platform for open discussions and teach practical skills to improve your family’s understanding and ability to offer meaningful support.
• Learning to give yourself grace and compassion — Leaning on others to get your needs met can be hard, and nobody’s perfect. You’ll get practice reframing and redirecting your thoughts so that when mood swings hit, you can bounce back quickly and maintain a positive self-image.

Get help for bipolar disorder at Lightfully

The support you’ll receive at a Lightfully Residential Treatment Center (RTC) is unlike any other — because it’s designed specifically for you. We use a holistic process-based therapy (PBT) model that’s centered on the whole person, so you’re building skills for essential life processes instead of trying to squash symptoms. You’ll get all the benefits mentioned above, with a little of your own unique sparkle.

What questions do you have about starting Residential Treatment? Reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team to start a conversation. We can’t wait to meet you.