Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can be difficult to diagnose. Not only does the condition involve a wide range of symptoms, but bipolar disorder has three different types making it difficult to diagnose and seek proper treatment efficiently.
Unfortunately, bipolar disorder has a high misdiagnosed rate, as the condition’s symptoms often resemble other mental health disorders. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and seeking treatment as soon as possible are critical to better manage your symptoms and improve your general well-being.
Spirit Mountain Recovery is a men’s drug rehab facility in Utah that provides support and a non-judgmental environment to start your road to recovery. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or co-occurring mental health disorder, we’re here to support you in every step of your recovery journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder and addiction, contact us today.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). This can involve shifts in mood, energy levels, concentration, and more.
Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose for many reasons. First, bipolar disorder can resemble similar conditions, such as depression. Plus, there are multiple different types of bipolar disorder, that each involve varying symptoms.
The three levels of bipolar disorder are Bipolar I disorder, Bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. Read on to learn about the differences between the three types.
What are the Signs of Bipolar Disorder?
Individuals that suffer from bipolar disorder often experience intense mood swings, or “mood episodes.” These mood episodes range from behaviors and feelings of intense highs (mania) and lows (depression). A manic or depressive episode often lasts most of the day and can last for long periods (days or weeks).
There’s a wide range of bipolar symptoms due to the nature of the condition. Here are some common signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, separated by manic episodes and depressive episodes.
Symptoms of a Manic Episode
- Feeling very up, high, or extremely irritable
- Feeling more active than usual
- Less need for sleep, but still experience high levels of energy
- Racing thoughts
- Intense urge for pleasurable activities like food, drinking, and sex
- Feeling unusually important, talented, or powerful
Symptoms of a Depressive Episode
- Feeling extremely down or anxious
- Feeling restless
- Having trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
- Forgetting things
- Lack of interest in all areas of your life
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
As briefly discussed earlier, bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose. This is because bipolar disorder symptoms can resemble other mental health conditions. Likewise, the wide range of symptoms and the rather unpredictable nature of the disorder can make it difficult to diagnose the different forms of bipolar. Other factors, like drug use, can influence symptoms, making it more difficult to diagnose.
Are There Different Types of Bipolar Disorder?
There are three types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I disorder, Bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. While all three forms of bipolar disorder involve noticeable changes in mood and energy levels, each type differs mainly in terms of the severity and the duration of the symptoms.
Bipolar I Disorder
This type of bipolar disorder involves manic episodes that last a minimum of 7 days or when an individual experiences manic symptoms so severe they need immediate medical attention. This type also involves depressive episodes that often last at least two weeks at a time.
Bipolar II Disorder
This type of bipolar disorder involves both depressive and hypomanic episodes, which are less severe manic symptoms. Therefore, the manic episodes are less severe than that of Bipolar I disorder.
Cyclothymic Disorder
This is a recurrence of both hypomanic and depressive symptoms. However, both periods of symptoms are neither as intense, nor as long in quality to qualify as distinct hypomanic or depressive episodes.
While the above three types of bipolar disorder are common, an individual can still experience bipolar symptoms outside the above three categories.
How to Find Bipolar Treatment Programs in Utah
If you believe you may be struggling with bipolar disorder, diagnosis and treatment are essential to living a happier, healthier life. Countless bipolar treatment programs in Utah often specialize in a variety of conditions, from mental health conditions to addiction treatment programs. Spirit Mountain Recovery is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility that provides bipolar treatment programs in Utah. We’re here to provide you with the support and resources essential to help treat and manage your bipolar symptoms. Likewise, if you struggle with bipolar and substance abuse, our facility is here to help you treat your mental health condition and provide the skills and support to live a life free of addiction. Contact us today to treat your bipolar disorder to live a more balanced, healthier life.
