Manic depression is the former term for bipolar disorder. The change was made in 1980 in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the industry standard for diagnosing mental health disorders. Manic depression was initially used to refer to any mental illnesses centered on mood or emotional problems. The change to bipolar disorder allows for more clarity in diagnosis and helps reduce the stigma attached to manic and mania. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience severe shifts in mood, thinking, energy, and behavior that can cause significant impairments in daily functioning. A bipolar disorder treatment program teaches people to manage their mood swings and other symptoms.
Often individuals with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed, usually with major depression. Getting a proper diagnosis is critical to receiving the right treatment. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, contact Harmony Hills at 855.494.0357 to learn about your treatment options.
Recognizing Signs of Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder used to be referred to as being manic-depressive. As the disease became more understood by mental health professionals, it was clear that it involved more than mania and depression. Like many other mental illnesses, bipolar disorder has numerous symptoms that can vary from person to person. These symptoms can even vary within the same person, which contributes to the complexity of proper diagnosis and makes it difficult for a person with bipolar disorder, or their loved ones, to understand. Some shared general symptoms of bipolar disorder can include:
- Distinct manic episodes
- Distinct depressive episodes
- Sleep disturbances
- Uncharacteristic behaviors
- Changes in the level of activity
- Inability to tend to daily responsibilities
Individuals with bipolar disorder are not always in a manic or depressive state. When not experiencing a manic episode or depressive episode, they will usually feel and appear normal. The severity of mood episodes ranges from mild to extreme and can occur gradually or have a rapid onset. Additionally, individuals can experience these episodes frequently or have long periods in between them. The unpredictable nature of this disorder is a critical factor in why Harmony Hills is dedicated to a multi-disciplinary approach to treating bipolar disorder.
What to Expect in Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Many people frequently live with bipolar disorder for years before finally receiving the proper treatment because they are often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed altogether. A common reason for misdiagnosis is that people tend to reach out for help only when experiencing a depressive episode.
Frequently, individuals with bipolar have co-occurring substance use disorders, as they rely on drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. Research indicates that the rates of substance abuse disorders among people with bipolar disorder are higher than those of the general public. At Harmony Hills, we know that providing dual diagnosis treatment offers a better chance for a successful recovery from co-occurring disorders.
Bipolar disorder treatment at Harmony Hills begins with a thorough intake assessment so that our treatment team can get to know you and learn about your goals for treatment. Among the mental health treatment therapies we offer are:
- Family therapy program
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
- 12-step therapy program
- Trauma therapy program
- EMDR therapy program
- Behavioral therapy programs
When you begin bipolar disorder treatment, the first goal is to detox from drugs or alcohol if needed and stabilize acute symptoms. Throughout treatment, you will receive education about bipolar disorder and how it impacts your life and the lives of your loved ones. You will also learn to recognize and manage symptoms and triggers, manage medications, and how bipolar and substance use disorders impact one another.
Learn More About Treatment for Manic Depression at Harmony Hills
Harmony Hills is a dual diagnosis treatment center in Florida. Our 80-acre rural campus offers individuals with bipolar disorder the opportunity to seek individualized treatment in a safe and supportive environment. Our experienced, compassionate treatment team is here to help you or your loved one learn how to live a healthy and productive life. Learn more about bipolar disorder treatment options by calling us at 855.494.0357.
