In life it is totally normal to have a full spectrum of emotion. Feelings of sadness with difficult and unexpected circumstances are common for everyone. It is also totally normal to have periods of elation or high energy when circumstances in life cause excitement or joy.
However when mood swings linger for long episodes, feel extreme, or feel otherwise out of proportion to life's events and out of your control, you may want to connect with a mental health professional to talk about what you are experiencing.
While there is more than one type of bipolar disorder they all have some similarities in that extreme mood and energy swings cause a disruption to daily life. These changes are distinct, intense, and persistent making it difficult to cope.
Typically bipolar disorders are so-called because they include a shift in state from mania, which is often experienced as feeling 'keyed up' or like a 'live-wire', to depression in which mood is low and feelings of sadness, lethargy, and apathy take hold.
Bipolar disorders are different than other mood disorders as you are left to navigate extremes at both ends of your emotional spectrum, symptoms can greatly vary from one state to the next, and the episodes of depression or mania may fluctuate in duration. This is why working with a team of experts who understand what you're going through, can help you determine the correct diagnosis.
It's important to know that you are not alone and that there are mental health professionals that specialize in treating bipolar disorders.
Bipolar disorders, along with many mental health conditions, may be met with stigma and confusion. But, there is nothing to be ashamed of and you do not need to hide your symptoms or behaviors from your care team. In fact the more open and honest you can be with your psychiatrist and therapist, the better they will be able to appropriately diagnosis and help you manage your symptoms.
Getting the right combination of support means you can live life fully, healthfully, and on your terms without feeling like bipolar disorder gets to run your life. People with bipolar disorders can absolutely live full, productive, and successful lives full of meaning and joy, and having the right care team can help get you to the turning point you desire and deserve.
Getting the right diagnosis is key. There is more than one type of bipolar disorder, and treatment plans should be individualized. Most often you will work with both a psychiatric clinician as well as a psychotherapy. A combination of medication, therapy, and behavioral and lifestyle changes can help. At Therapath we take a holistic approach looking at all aspects of your life including your mood and emotions, your physical health and wellbeing, and how you are interacting in your home, work, and social lives.
