Bipolar disorder—sometimes known as manic-depressive illness—is a mental health disorder that causes severe changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Like many mental health concerns, bipolar disorder can vary in intensity, and symptoms can be minor or suppressed. However, individuals struggling with the condition need support to heal and manage the condition, just like any mental health issue, to achieve positive overall wellness.

At Harmony Hills, we offer a wide range of mental health treatment programs that can provide the support necessary for those dealing with bipolar disorder. Contact us at 855.494.0357 or online to learn more.

Understanding the Types of Bipolar Disorder

Three forms of bipolar disorder exist. A professional diagnosis is necessary to identify which variant a person is dealing with. Here are the types:

• Bipolar I – Bipolar I disorder consists of alternating mania and depression periods. This is considered the most severe form of bipolar disorder.
• Bipolar II – Bipolar II disorder consists of alternating recurrent depression and less intense manic episodes called hypomania. While considered less severe than bipolar I, it can consist of long periods of depression that can be dangerous.
• Cyclothymia – This is a type of bipolar disorder that involves recurring periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms without severe episodes.

Bipolar disorder can also contain various characteristics that are not an official diagnosis but may be present in a person’s condition. These include:

• Rapid cycling – Rapid cycling is when an individual experiences four or more episodes of mania, hypomania, or depression within one year.
• Mixed features – A mixed feature occurs when someone experiences symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time.
• Psychosis – Some individuals struggling with bipolar disorder may experience psychosis, which can include delusions or hallucinations. This warrants a bipolar I diagnosis.

The symptoms and signs of bipolar disorder can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

There are numerous ways a bipolar disorder can manifest. While each individual will have a unique experience of the condition, there are some common signs and symptoms that a person struggles with.

Manic Symptoms

Some of these signs and symptoms of mania include the following:

• Increased energy or activity
• A sense of euphoria
• Increased sexual interests/activities
• Poor judgment
• Risky or aggressive behavior
• Psychosis (severe cases)
• Little need for sleep
• Impulsive spending
• Irritability
• Unrealistic behavior
• Increased talkativeness

Depressive Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of depression include the following:

• Pervasive feelings of sadness or low mood
• Little interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Pervasive hopelessness and pessimism
• Changes in appetite or diet
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Feelings of guilt
• Inability to concentrate
• Inability to make decisions
• Extreme fatigue
• Memory loss

Not every person with bipolar disorder will exhibit these symptoms. Similarly, these symptoms will vary in duration and intensity for each individual. However, rarely will anyone be able to address these signs of the condition in isolation. A bipolar disorder treatment program offers the best and most effective means to identify the signs and address the condition’s symptoms.

Treating Bipolar Disorder at Harmony Hills

When you choose Harmony Hills for bipolar disorder treatment, you can expect a compassionate and comprehensive approach tailored to your unique needs. Our programs are designed to guide you on your journey toward stability and wellness. Here are some key aspects of what you can anticipate during your treatment:

Personalized Assessment

Our clinical team will conduct an in-depth evaluation to understand your specific symptoms, triggers, and overall mental health history, ensuring that the treatment plan is tailored just for you.

Integrated Therapy Options

You will have access to a variety of therapeutic modalities, including individual therapy, group therapy, and family counseling, to address the multifaceted nature of bipolar disorder.

Medication Management

If appropriate, our experienced psychiatrists will work with you to develop a medication regimen that helps balance your mood and alleviate symptoms while closely monitoring your response.

Holistic Approaches

We understand the importance of treating the whole person. That is why our programs may incorporate mindfulness practices, nutrition counseling, and stress management techniques to enhance your overall well-being.

Supportive Community

Joining our treatment programs means becoming part of a supportive community where you can share experiences and encouragement with others who understand your journey.

Ongoing Support and Aftercare

Your treatment does not end at discharge. We provide resources and support for continued wellness, including follow-up appointments and access to support groups.

At Harmony Hills, we believe in your potential for recovery and are committed to providing the resources and support necessary for you to thrive.

Find the Support You Need for Bipolar Disorder at Harmony Hills — Contact Us Today

For many years, our staff at Harmony Hills has worked tirelessly to help people overcome their mental health concerns and move on to happier, more connected lives. We are one of Central Florida’s leaders in treating psychiatric conditions in our mental health treatment program, and we have extensive experience treating many mental health conditions simultaneously.

To inquire about the bipolar disorder treatment program or schedule an appointment, please get in touch with us today by calling 855.494.0357 or filling out our online contact form.