Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition. Experts believe it currently affects 2.3 million people in the U.S. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania and depression. These episodes impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities and regulate their moods. There are generally three different types of bipolar disorder: bipolar 1 disorder, bipolar 2 disorder and cyclothymic disorder. It’s common for someone with bipolar disorder to experience periods of poor self-esteem, low mood and decreased energy. These are often followed by periods of high energy and impulsivity. You’re probably searching for more information on the causes and treatment of bipolar disorder. If so, you’ll find what you need below.

What are some of the top causes of bipolar disorder?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t well understood, but there are several factors that experts believe can contribute to the development of this disorder. The most likely causes of bipolar disorder include:

• Traumatic childhood experiences — Some experts support the idea that bipolar disorder can be caused by traumatic experiences during childhood. Trauma that occurs early on in life can interfere with a young child’s ability to regulate their emotions later on in life.

• Stressful life experiences — Many people who experience bipolar episodes report that stress triggers their symptoms. Major life events can exacerbate the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Examples of major life events include marriage, divorce, breakups, moving and funerals.

• Genetic and family history — Another cause of bipolar disorder is genetics and family history. Do you have a family member who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder? You may have a higher genetic predisposition to developing this condition.

• Chemistry in the brain — Many people who have bipolar disorder respond well to medication. Medications alter the neurotransmitters in the brain. This suggests that the cause of bipolar disorder relates to how the neurotransmitters work in the brain.

• Certain medications and substances — Some medications can trigger a person’s bipolar disorder symptoms. Antidepressants are one example. Alcohol and drugs can also cause a person to experience exacerbated symptoms. Some of these include mania and depression. 

What are some of the top treatments for bipolar disorder?

There are several treatment options available for people who struggle to independently manage their bipolar disorder. These include:

• Process-based talk therapy — Process-based therapy (PBT) is an innovative and effective approach to therapeutic treatment for bipolar disorder. It involves viewing each client as a whole person. PBT addresses the multilayered processes that make up all mental health disorders. It uses personalized treatment to work through them.

• Medication — Medication is a treatment method that works well for some clients. It’s typically most effective in conjunction with talk therapy. To determine if medication is right for you, speak with a trusted medical professional.

• Residential treatment — Residential treatment provides a higher level of treatment to clients with bipolar disorder. It can help a person learn to manage their bipolar disorder symptoms in a supportive, family-oriented environment.

• Virtual intensive outpatient program (vIOP) — vIOPs are for clients who need individualized bipolar disorder care, but can’t make it to in-person treatment. It allows a client to receive professional care from the comfort of their own home. vIOP provides treatment in a way that works most conveniently for the client.

Lightfully can provide professional treatment to address the cause of your bipolar disorder

Our mission at Lightfully is to provide high-quality mental health care to various types of clients. We believe in using a focused approach to process-based therapy. The framework of our clinic consists of evidence-based, clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care. We have experience working with various mental health disorders. That’s why we’re confident that we can help you manage your bipolar disorder over time.

Lightfully offers various levels of care to both adults and teens: Residential Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), also referred to as our Day Treatment Program. We also offer a Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (vIOP) for adults. We meet each client where they are and can help them determine the most likely cause of their bipolar disorder. From there, we will create a personalized, long-term treatment plan designed to prevent crises.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.