Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Finding Balance in a World of Highs and Lows

"Bipolar disorder can be a challenge, but it can set you up to be able to do almost anything else in life." – Carrie Fisher

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Many people think it's just about “mood swings,” but it’s much deeper than that. As a psychiatrist, I’ve worked with many people navigating life with bipolar disorder—and I can tell you this: with the right treatment and support, balance is possible, and stability is within reach.

📊 How Common Is Bipolar Disorder?

• 2.8% of U.S. adults are diagnosed with bipolar disorder each year (that’s over 7 million people).

• It affects men and women equally.

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  The average age of onset is 25 years old, but it can appear earlier.

• Up to 69% of people with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed initially, often with depression.

Understanding what bipolar disorder truly looks like can help reduce stigma and lead to earlier, more effective treatment.

🧠 What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. These mood shifts are typically categorized into two main phases:

1. Manic or Hypomanic Episodes

During a manic episode, a person may feel:

• Extremely energized or euphoric

• Restless or irritable

• Like they need little to no sleep

• Unusually talkative or fast-thinking

• Overconfident, with risky or impulsive behavior

• Distracted or unable to focus

Hypomania is a milder version of mania, but it still disrupts daily life and relationships.

2. Depressive Episodes

These periods may look like:

• Feeling very sad, empty, or hopeless

• Losing interest in activities

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

• Fatigue or lack of energy

• Feeling worthless or guilty

• Thoughts of death or suicide

These shifts aren’t just everyday ups and downs—they can last days, weeks, or even longer. They interfere with work, relationships, and daily functioning.

🔄 Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are different types of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar I: Includes at least one full manic episode, often with depressive episodes.

• Bipolar II: Involves patterns of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (without full mania).

• Cyclothymic Disorder: A milder form with frequent mood fluctuations that don't meet full criteria for mania or depression.

Each type has its own challenges—and its own path to treatment and recovery.

❓ What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

There’s no single cause, but several factors are involved:

• Genetics: It often runs in families.

• Brain structure and function: Brain imaging shows differences in people with bipolar disorder.

• Neurochemistry: Imbalances in brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin may play a role.

• Life stressors: Trauma, sleep disruption, or substance use can trigger episodes.

Remember: this is not your fault. Bipolar disorder is a medical condition—not a personality flaw or character weakness.

🛠️ How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

With the right treatment plan, many people with bipolar disorder lead stable, fulfilling lives. Treatment is ongoing and may include:

1. Medication

• Mood stabilizers (like lithium) are often the foundation.

• Antipsychotics and antidepressants may be added based on symptoms.

• It’s crucial to work closely with your provider to find the right combination and dosage.

2. Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps manage negative thinking and emotional regulation.

• Psychoeducation empowers patients to understand and track their symptoms.

• Family-focused therapy improves communication and support at home.

3. Lifestyle Management

• Sleep: Prioritizing a consistent sleep schedule is essential.

• Routine: Structure and predictability reduce the chance of triggering episodes.

• Substance Avoidance: Drugs and alcohol can destabilize mood and interfere with medication.

• Stress Reduction: Mindfulness, exercise, journaling, and support groups can help regulate emotions.

💬 Living With Bipolar Disorder

A bipolar diagnosis doesn’t define you. It’s simply a part of your story—not the whole book.

Many individuals with bipolar disorder are creative, insightful, and deeply resilient. With awareness, treatment, and support, you can manage your symptoms and build a life full of meaning, connection, and joy.

📣 You Are Not Alone—Support Is Here

If you or a loved one is living with bipolar disorder, I want you to know: help is available, and recovery is possible. Early treatment can dramatically improve quality of life.

Let’s break the silence, challenge the stigma, and build a plan together—one that honors your experiences and leads to healing.

👉 Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can support you.

Noble Psychiatric Services is Here to Help Contact Us 📞💙 505-595-1200

👉 You are worthy of care, and you don’t have to do this alone.