Bipolar Disorder
Residential Bipolar Treatment
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts, or episodes, can range from manic highs to depressive lows and can have a significant impact on an individual’s daily life.
The Bipolar Experience
For those living with untreated bipolar disorder, the experience can be overwhelming and isolating. During manic episodes, individuals often feel a sense of euphoria, boundless energy, and an increased drive to take risks and engage in impulsive behaviors. This is often followed by a crash into a depressive episode, characterized by feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a lack of motivation. These episodes can be severe and life-disrupting, interfering with work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
The Family Experience
For loved ones, it can be difficult to understand and cope with the erratic behavior of those with untreated bipolar disorder. They may witness their loved one’s manic episodes and be concerned for their safety, and then feel helpless during the depressive episodes.
They see some of the following signs and symptoms in their loved one:
- Mania or hypomania: Elevated or irritable mood Increased energy, activity, or restlessness Racing thoughts or fast speech Decreased need for sleep
- Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem: Impulsive behavior, such as excessive spending, substance abuse, or risky sexual behavior
- Depression: Sadness or hopelessness Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities Fatigue or decreased energy Difficulty concentrating or making decisions Feelings of worthlessness or guilt Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Rapid Mood Cycling or Mixed state: Symptoms of both mania/hypomania and depression occurring simultaneously or rapidly alternating
Families who seek help are relieved to know that treatment for their bipolar loved one has a high success rate and that their own quality of life will also be restored.
Evidence-Based Care for Bipolar Disorder
At Palm Springs Behavioral Health we use several types of therapy and medical interventions to successfully treat bipolar disorder. The most common include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals learn how to manage their thoughts and behaviors and develop coping strategies for dealing with mood swings.
Medications, such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, are often used to balance moods and regulate brain chemistry. These medications can be highly effective in managing symptoms and preventing future episodes.
Family-focused therapy (FFT) helps families understand the illness and develop strategies for supporting their loved one.
Inpatient Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Inpatient treatment is the most effective option for individuals experiencing severe manic or depressive episodes that cannot be safely managed in an outpatient setting.
Bipolar disorder requires professional treatment. With the appropriate therapy and medical interventions employed by Palm Springs Behavioral Health, individuals with bipolar disorder can learn to manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and find freedom from mental illness.
