Understanding the Highs and Lows of Bipolar Disorder

Humans are emotional animals and, as such, we frequently experience moods on a wide spectrum. You might feel the thrill of a compliment one minute and then be crushed by loss or heartbreak the next. 

This roller coaster of emotions and moods is part of the human experience, but it’s not the same as the highs and lows that 2.8% of the population in the United States diagnosed with bipolar disorder experience.

As experts in bipolar disorder, the mental health team at Point of View Mental Health in Scottsdale, Arizona, understands the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. We explain some of the basics here.

The different types of bipolar disorder

At its core, bipolar disorder causes strong or irregular shifts in mood that have little to do with what’s happening in life. There are several types of bipolar disorder, including:

Bipolar I

Those with bipolar I experience at least a week-long manic episode, during which emotions shift toward high-spiritedness. Manic episodes are often characterized by:

• Extreme happiness
• Feeling invincible
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Lack of sleep

On the other end of the mood spectrum, people with bipolar I also experience depressive episodes that last for at least two weeks.

Bipolar II

People with this type of bipolar disorder experience at least one episode of mania and one depressive episode, but in between, their moods stabilize, and they can function well.

The manic episode might not be as severe as with bipolar I and may last less than a week, in which case we refer to it as hypomania.

Cyclothymic disorder

Individuals who experience this type of bipolar disorder experience highs and lows that are less severe than with types I and II, but they cycle through these mood shifts for two years or more.

When the highs and lows of bipolar disorder are problematic

We mentioned that 2.8% of the US population is diagnosed with bipolar disorder; 83% of these diagnoses are classified as severe and interfere with a person’s ability to function.

This is because the highs and lows are often quite extreme. For example, it’s not uncommon for people with bipolar disorder to be hospitalized during a severe manic episode as they become a danger to themselves and those around them. Their feelings of invincibility and their lack of risk management can pose great harm.

The lows that can come with bipolar disorder can be just as worrisome, and sufferers may experience overwhelming sadness and suicidal thoughts. These lows can feel even more dramatic on the heels of a manic episode.

Getting help for bipolar disorder

The good news is that we can help regulate the highs and lows that come with bipolar disorder through medications that can stabilize your moods.

In addition to pharmacology, we emphasize behavioral therapies, coping strategies, and lifestyle changes that can keep you on a more even keel.

No matter which type of bipolar disorder you have, we meet you where you are to help you break free from the cycles that have you going from one end of the mood spectrum to the other.

To get started on the road to more stable moods, contact our office at 520-999-9114 or connect with us online. We also offer telemedicine services throughout the state of Arizona.