If you or someone you care about has ever wondered, “Could this be more than just mood swings?” this post is for you. Sometimes referred to as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition marked by significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts can severely disrupt all aspects of a person’s life in very real ways. 

Below, we’ll explore what bipolar disorder looks like, how it’s diagnosed, possible causes or risk factors, and what treatments are currently available. If you suspect you may have symptoms of bipolar disorder, or have already been given this diagnosis, know that finding effective treatment is critical to managing the symptoms of bipolar disorder and minimizing the damage it can cause. 
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What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder in which people experience prolonged cycles of mania or hypomania (periods of very high energy, elevated mood, impulsivity and even psychosis) and depression (periods of persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, or thoughts of death).

Manic and depressive episodes are far more extreme than the ordinary ups and downs most of us experience throughout our lives. These mood swings are also different from those associated with Borderline Personality Disorder, in which a person’s mood may shift dramatically throughout the course of one day, usually in reaction to events happening around them. 

With bipolar disorder, manic and depressive episodes are not typically related (at least not directly) to external events or interactions. Moreover, if left untreated these extreme mood states can last for days, weeks, or even months, and often cause significant disruption to the person’s health, work, relationships, and daily functioning. 

Types of Bipolar Disorder

  • Bipolar I disorder involves at least one manic episode, which may be severe enough to require hospitalization. Depressive episodes often follow. 
  • Bipolar II disorder involves recurring major depressive episodes along with hypomanic episodes, which are less intense than full mania but can still disrupt life. 
  • Cyclothymia and other subtypes involve ongoing but less extreme mood shifts.

Symptoms

Although bipolar disorder looks different for each person, common symptoms include:

Mania or Hypomania

  • Elevated or irritable mood
  • Racing, and often incoherent, thoughts
  • Reduced need for sleep
  • High energy or restlessness
  • Impulsivity or extreme risk-taking
  • Inflated self-esteem or grandiose ideas
  • Hallucinations and/or delusional thinking 

Depression

  • Persistent sadness or emptiness 
  • Loss of interest in activities 
  • Fatigue or slowed movements 
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 
  • Changes in sleep and appetite 
  • Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide 

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

There is no single cause, but several factors can contribute:

  • Genetics: Plays a strong role in bipolar disorder.  
  • Brain chemistry: Differences in neurotransmitters and brain function are associated with bipolar disorder. 
  • Life events: Stress, trauma, sleep disruptions, or substance use can trigger episodes.

Diagnosis

Bipolar disorder should only be diagnosed by a trained mental health professional, since many other medical and mental health conditions can present with similar symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves:

  • Identifying manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes 
  • Assessing the severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms 
  • Ruling out other causes, such as medical conditions or substance use 
  • Considering family history and life stressors

Treatment

Bipolar disorder is treatable, and many people live full, meaningful lives with the right plan. Treatment usually includes:

  • Medication 
    • Mood stabilizers like lithium  
    • Antipsychotics 
    • Antidepressants (used carefully to avoid triggering mania) 
  • Therapy 
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns 
    • Family-focused therapy to involve loved ones and strengthen support 
    • Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy to build consistency in sleep, routines, and relationships 
  • Lifestyle support 
    • Regular sleep schedule and balanced routines 
    • Stress management 
    • Monitoring moods to notice early warning signs 
  • Education and ongoing care 
    • Learning about bipolar disorder helps reduce shame and build insight 
    • Treatment plans are often adjusted over time to reflect what works best for you

Why Early Recognition Matters

Research on bipolar disorder has shown repeatedly that accessing effective treatment as soon as possible after the first manic episode is the best way to prevent future episodes from becoming more severe or frequent. Early, effective treatment often means less disruption to work, relationships, financial stability, and overall wellbeing.

Common Misconceptions

  • “It’s just mood swings.” Bipolar shifts are more intense and longer lasting than typical ups and downs. 
  • “You always know when you’re manic.” Mania or hypomania can feel enjoyable, so it may not seem like a problem until it leads to serious consequences. 
  • “Medication means weakness.” Medications are medical treatments that stabilize brain chemistry, similar to insulin for diabetes. For bipolar disorder, medication is an essential part of the treatment plan, in addition to effective therapy and social support.

When to Seek Help

It may be time to talk to a professional if:

  • Mood swings disrupt your work, relationships, or daily functioning 
  • You experience manic or hypomanic episodes 
  • Depression feels overwhelming or includes thoughts of death or suicide 
  • Symptoms are becoming more frequent or severe 

How LynLake Can Help

At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we approach bipolar disorder with compassion and care. We provide:

  • Comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis
  • Individual and family therapy to help manage symptoms and improve relationships
  • Collaboration with medication management providers
  • Support for long-term stability and wellbeing
  • Assistance in accessing a higher level of care when necessary 

Moving Forward

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition, but it is also treatable. With the right combination of medication and support, many people regain balance, find relief from symptoms, and live fulfilling lives. Contact us today to be connected with a therapist who can help you create a plan to manage your mental health symptoms and get back to living your life. 
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