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What can I do to help self-manage bipolar disorder?
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a condition that can affect your mood, making it swing from one extreme to another. If you are suffering from bipolar disorder you will have episodes of depression during which you feel low and lethargic, alternating with episodes of mania during which you feel high and overactive.
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Symptoms of bipolar disorder depend on which mood you are experiencing at the time. Unlike mood swings, in bipolar disorder, each mood can last for several weeks with some people rarely experiencing a ‘normal’ or ordinary mood.
Bipolar disorder symptoms
Symptoms of a depressed phase:
- Sadness
- Uncontrollable crying
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Excessive guilt
- Suicidal thoughts and urges
Symptoms of a depressed phase:
- Increased energy
- Unusual talkativeness
- Racing thoughts
- Little need for sleep
- Inflated self-esteem
- Spending sprees
There are two different types of bipolar disorder, bipolar I and bipolar II. The main difference between them is that a person with bipolar I has manic episodes, while someone with bipolar II has hypomanic episodes. The main difference between mania and hypomania is the severity.
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Treatment for bipolar disorder
Medication is an important aspect of the treatment of bipolar disorder. This is prescribed to prevent episodes of mania, hypomania and depression and also to treat the symptoms of depression when they occur.
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If you need to be assessed for bipolar disorder, the first step would be to see a Consultant Psychiatrist for an assessment.
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Therapy can also play an important part in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help you better cope with your symptoms and learn how to recognise when mood shifts are about to happen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I get help for bipolar disorder?
If you are not taking medication to manage your disorder in a long term way and you have begun to identify the early warning signs of an episode, it’s important to seek support as soon as you can. When struggling with a manic episode, you may engage in dangerous behaviours.
Which treatments are most effective for bipolar disorder?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for bipolar disorder, alongside having an ongoing relationship with a psychiatrist to monitor your medication. CBT can help you develop strategies for managing your early warning signs and triggers.
Should I see a psychiatrist or a psychologist?
Bipolar disorder is predominantly a biological disorder. Because of this, medication often makes up an important part of treatment and so we will generally suggest that you have an initial consultation with a psychiatrist.
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