While no evidence suggests that a single gene is responsible for bipolar disorder, several genetic and environmental factors are related to the condition. These risk factors include:(2) 

• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Difference in brain structure and function
• Family history of bipolar disorder
• Traumatic event experience

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are three types of bipolar disorder, which are characterized by the intensity of the highs and lows a person experiences. Manic and depressed moods are common to each kind of bipolar disorder; however, some people also fall into hypomanic states that have less severe manic symptoms. The NIMH defines the types of bipolar disorders as follows.(3) 

Bipolar I disorder — Manic episodes continue for at least seven days, occurring nearly every day for most of the day, or are so severe that the person needs immediate medical care. Depressive episodes usually occur as well, lasting at least two weeks. Some patients experience manic and depressive symptoms at the same time. 

Bipolar II disorder — People go through a pattern of depressive and hypomanic phases that are less severe than the manic episodes that accompany bipolar I disorder. However, bipolar II is not considered a milder form of bipolar I. It is a separate diagnosis.

Cyclothymic disorder (aka cyclothymia) — People have recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not intense enough or last long enough to qualify as hypomanic or depressive episodes.

Symptoms Associated With Bipolar Disorder

A manic episode can include these behaviors, feelings, and actions:(3)

• Elation or giddiness
• Jumpiness or an abundance of nervous energy
• Not sleeping
• Engaging in risky or reckless behaviors
• Loss of appetite
• Racing thoughts
• Talking incessantly
• Feeling invincible

Hypomania includes these same symptoms but at a less severe intensity, allowing people to feel good without feeling out of control.

Depressive episodes are characterized by the following:(3)

• A feeling of hopelessness or despair
• Overwhelming sadness
• Fatigue
• Sleep issues (too much or too little)
• Weight gain
• Loss of concentration and focus
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities

Outpatient Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

In the complexity of mental health disorders, the intensive outpatient program (IOP) emerges as an effective approach for people seeking fundamental transformation. IOPs are designed for individuals that require more intensive treatment than is typically provided in the outpatient setting but do not require full-time inpatient care.

An IOP treats a wide range of people, from those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to those who are dealing with a co-occurring disorder or drug or alcohol misuse. IOPs offer a supportive environment where personal growth thrives thanks to a combination of therapeutic methods, including group therapy, individual counseling, and experiential treatments.In addition to fostering self-discovery, this innovative therapeutic framework also promotes a feeling of community among participants, who frequently find comfort in shared experiences. 

While bipolar disorder can be a challenge, proper treatment helps many people improve their quality of life. High-quality treatment plans, like those offered by Bishop Health, usually include a combination of medication and psychotherapy, aka talk therapy, specifically designed to address the unique needs of each patient.

Our Approach to Bipolar Disorder Treatment at Our Delray Beach, FL, Clinic

For individuals attempting to navigate the complexity of mental health issues, Bishop Health in Delray Beach, FL, offers a lifeline to overall wellness. Our skilled and experienced psychiatrists use evidence-based practices and a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to treat a wide range of problems. We offer the most up-to-date approaches to treating bipolar disorder and will work with you to develop a personalized course of treatment that will help relieve your symptoms and improve your ability to function. 

Bipolar Disorder Treatment Therapies

Mood Stabilizers, Antidepressants, & Medications Used in Treatment

Several medications can help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder, but you may need to try different types to see which works best. At Bishop Health, we closely monitor the effect a medication has on you and will make adjustments in dosage or type to develop a plan that works best for you.

Insights from the NIMH note that bipolar depression is often treated with antidepressants along with a mood stabilizer such as lithium or valproate, which can help prevent or reduce the severity of mood episodes.(2) Lithium can also decrease the risk of suicide. 

Antipsychotic medication, which alters brain chemistry to help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking, is usually part of a treatment plan. You also may be prescribed medications for sleep or anxiety if appropriate.

Psychotherapies Used for Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Psychotherapy is often an effective part of bipolar treatment plans, benefitting both you and your loved ones. Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy helps you identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. 

One form of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in treating depression but can also help treat bipolar depression. Other psychotherapies used to treat bipolar disorder include dialectical therapy, family therapy, and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), which was specifically designed for the treatment of bipolar disorder.

Lifestyle Changes Can Help Treat Bipolar Disorder

In addition to medication and psychotherapy, healthy lifestyle changes and behavior modifications can help manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. 

Get to know your stressors and triggers. Think about who you are with, what you are doing, the time of the day, and where you are when you are most likely to feel stress or get triggered. Keep in mind that some symptoms start slowly, so you may have to think back a few hours or days to pinpoint what prompted an episode of mania or depression. Identify these triggers and if possible, take steps to avoid them in the future.

Stay away from drugs and alcohol. These substances can disrupt emotional balance and interact with medications.

Develop a routine. Establishing a routine can provide the structure and control to keep depression and mania at bay. Regular sleep, exercise, and eating patterns help regulate body rhythms and increase stability.

Form healthy relationships. Spending time with people who will look out for you can help stabilize your moods and your life. 

Keep a regular sleeping schedule. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Limit caffeine, which may disrupt sleep.

Eat well and get regular exercise. A healthy diet will provide proper nutrition, and exercise can help improve your mood.