We can help you understand, stabilize, and control the disruptive and distressing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder. Our clinical team of psychiatric and therapeutic experts provides leading treatment for bipolar disorder and other mood disorders.
An estimated 2.8% of U.S. adults experienced bipolar disorder in a given year. According to the VA, more than one-third of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan have received a mental health diagnosis, which includes conditions like PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Bipolar Disorder Explained
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by pronounced mood swings that include periods of high energy and elevated mood (manic episodes) and periods of low energy and depressed mood (depressive episodes).
These powerful shifts can affect sleep, energy levels, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly. Mood swings may occur infrequently or multiple times a year. Between episodes, many people experience lingering symptoms, while some may not experience any at all.
Bipolar Disorder Types and Symptoms
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary from person to person and are classified into four types:
- Bipolar I Disorder: Defined by at least one manic episode, which may be severe enough to require hospitalization or be accompanied by psychosis. Depressive episodes also occur, typically lasting about two weeks.
- Bipolar II Disorder: Defined by a pattern of major depressive episodes and less severe manic episodes, known as hypomania. Depressive episodes in Bipolar II can be long-lasting and particularly debilitating.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years. However, the symptoms do not meet the full criteria for a hypomanic or depressive episode
- Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar Disorders: This category applies to disorders with bipolar features that do not match the exact criteria for the other types, such as mood changes induced by substances or other medical conditions.
It may appear that type I is a less severe form of bipolar disorder than type II, but this is not true. Manic episodes of type I are more severe, and sometimes merit hospitalization. However, depressive episodes in type II last longer and can be more debilitating than type I.
Mania and Hypomania
While manic and hypomanic episodes differ in severity, they share similar symptoms. Manic episodes are more severe and can trigger a break from reality (psychosis), while hypomanic episodes are milder.
Symptoms of a manic or hypomanic episode can include:
- Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired behavior
- Increased activity, energy, or agitation
- Exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence (euphoria)
- Decreased need for sleep
- Unusual talkativeness and racing thoughts
- Being easily distracted
- Poor decision-making and impulsive behavior (e.g., spending sprees, risky sexual encounters)
Psychosis in a manic episode may result in delusions such as one believing they have special abilities or supreme social connections.
Depressive Episodes
During a major depressive episode, symptoms are severe enough to cause noticeable difficulty in day-to-day activities. Symptoms include:
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in all or most activities
- Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite
- Insomnia or sleeping too much
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Inexplicable aches or pains
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
To learn more about signs of Bipolar Disorder, you can take our confidential Bipolar Self-Test, which is based on official DSM-5 criteria.
Causes and Risk Factors
While bipolar disorder is a common mental illness, its exact causes are not fully understood. However, research shows that the condition is commonly linked to an individual’s genetics, brain structure, and environment.
- Genetics: It is likely that a combination of genes is responsible, though no single gene causes the illness on its own. These can include genes that influence hormones and brain chemistry. Those who have a close family member with bipolar disorder are at a significantly higher risk—roughly five times more likely to develop the condition than someone without a family history.
- Brain Structure: Studies have shown that the brain structure in those affected by bipolar disorder can differ from those without the disease. While symptoms are still used for diagnosis rather than brain imaging, research suggests these differences may be related to pathophysiology in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and ventral striatum.
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Environmental Factors: Certain environmental factors may also increase the risk of developing the disease or can trigger an initial manic or depressive episode. Such factors include:
- Periods of high stress or traumatic events
- Significant physical illnesses
- Drug or alcohol abuse
Co-occurring Conditions
It is common for people with bipolar disorder to also have other mental health conditions that require treatment. These can worsen symptoms and make treatment more complex.
Common co-occurring conditions include:
- Anxiety disorders
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Substance use disorders
- Physical health problems, such as heart disease, thyroid problems, or obesity
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The combination of PTSD and Bipolar disorder is common among veterans and can result in a greater burden of symptoms than either condition alone. This co-occurrence also increases the risk of suicide and can cause a more rapid cycle between depressive and manic episodes.
Our Approach to Bipolar Disorder Treatment
The vital first step in treatment is an accurate diagnosis from a proper professional assessment. Our psychiatric specialists can conduct diagnostics within 24 hours of your arrival at our facility. An effective treatment plan typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Medications
Our medical team prescribes and manages medication to stabilize mood and control symptoms. Standard medications may include:
- Mood Stabilizers: Medications like lithium often form the foundation of long-term treatment.
- Antipsychotics: Can be used to manage mania or psychosis and may be combined with other drugs to treat depression.
- Antidepressants: Prescribed carefully to treat depressive episodes, often in combination with a mood stabilizer to prevent triggering mania.
- Anticonvulsants: Certain anti-seizure medications also function as effective mood stabilizers.
- Benzodiazepines: These may be used for short-term relief of anxiety or insomnia but must be monitored closely, as they can be addictive.
Natural Medicine
Emerging evidence suggests that some natural supplements, when used under medical supervision, may offer support for bipolar disorder symptoms. It is critical to discuss any supplement with your doctor before use, as they can have significant side effects and interact with prescribed medications.
- Fish Oils (Omega-3s): Rich in EPA and DHA, these fatty acids are essential for brain health. Research suggests they may help reduce the severity of depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder by supporting brain cell function and reducing inflammation.
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe): A naturally occurring compound in the body, SAMe is sometimes used to treat depressive episodes. However, it must be used with extreme caution, as it carries a significant risk of triggering mania or hypomania.
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC): This antioxidant helps restore glutathione, a substance that can be depleted in individuals with bipolar disorder. Some studies have shown that NAC, when added to traditional medications, can lead to improvements in depressive symptoms and overall functioning.
- Choline: This essential nutrient has been studied for its potential to reduce manic symptoms, particularly when used in conjunction with prescribed medications like lithium.
- Inositol: A type of sugar molecule involved in brain cell signaling, inositol has been explored as a way to augment the effects of mood stabilizers, particularly for depressive symptoms.
- Rhodiola Rosea: An adaptogenic herb, Rhodiola has shown some promise in preliminary studies for alleviating symptoms of mild bipolar depression.
Solara Mental Health does not advocate for using these supplements without the guidance of a medical professional, as they can have side effects and interactions.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” is a vital component of treatment. It helps individuals and families understand the illness, manage symptoms, and cope with triggers. We provide these therapies in private, family, or group settings.
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily rhythms, such as sleeping, eating, and exercise, as predictable routines can help manage mood.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change unhealthy negative thoughts and behaviors. A form of CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), can also be used to teach skills for managing intense emotions and improving relationships.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an advanced, non-invasive procedure that may treat the depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. By using magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, TMS can be a powerful tool to accelerate improvement when used with other treatments.
Bipolar Treatment for Veterans at Solara
Solara Mental Health provides a supportive and safe environment for veterans to recover from bipolar disorder. As a VA-contracted community care provider, we have the unique opportunity to help veterans with their mental health needs. Once treatment is authorized, we can provide comprehensive support, including housing and transportation.
Our primary focus is to empower you to successfully manage bipolar symptoms and any co-occurring disorders so that you can live the life you are meant to live. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, our doctors and clinical team will create a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and modified by your entire support team—including your psychiatrist, therapist, and case manager—to ensure you are making consistent progress.
If you believe you may have bipolar disorder or are unhappy with your current treatment, give us a call. We can work with your insurance and will strive tirelessly to build an effective strategy for you.