Bipolar disorder is one of the most common mental illnesses and can be chronic and persistent or episodic. It causes significant shifts in mood that leave you feeling an emotional high or deep depression. The primary symptoms include:

• Manic Episodes: Typically a week-long period of intense energy where you feel on top of the world. These episodes tend to bring behavioral changes like distractibility, racing thoughts, and, in some cases, hallucinations. 
• Hypomanic Episodes: A shorter period than a manic episode with less severe symptoms that do not hinder daily activities. 
• Major Depressive Episodes: Experiencing depression symptoms (sadness, fatigue, and loss of interest in most activities) for two weeks or more. These episodes may trigger thoughts of self-harm and death. 

While it’s unclear which factors cause this brain disorder, research shows that it tends to run in families and first appears in adults around 25 rather than young children. It’s possible to experience these mood disruptions due to lack of sleep, stress, or drug and alcohol use. 

There are three distinct diagnoses doctors can make, each of which comes with its own symptoms that impact your mood. Knowing the different types of disorders is crucial when seeking a treatment plan. Learn about each diagnosis and its main characteristics below:

• Bipolar I Disorder: You experience manic, hypomanic, and major depressive episodes, all of which can make normal activities difficult. 
• Bipolar II Disorder: You go through major depressive episodes and only experience relief through a hypomanic episode. This disorder is more common in those who have other mental illnesses. 

Cyclothymic Disorder: You experience frequent mood swings for at least a two-year period, though they are less severe than the other diagnoses.

Bipolar disorder is tough to navigate, but thankfully, treatment is available. Reach out to Inner Voyage Recovery Center if you want to experience neutral moods that do not impact your daily life.

Call us at (470) 460-8437 or explore our admissions page to get started on a path toward mental stability.

By reading this, you’ve already taken the first step.