Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood swings impact sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior, and your ability to think clearly. While bipolar disorder is often lifelong, it can be managed with proper treatment and supportive care. People often wonder if you can develop bipolar disorder or if it’s something you’re born with. The truth is that while it’s not fully understood why some people develop bipolar disorder and others do not, there are several potential factors that may contribute to its development.
Understanding how bipolar disorder develops can support you in creating a treatment plan that works best for your needs. Honey Lake Clinic offers mood disorder treatment in Greenville, Florida that includes evidence-based therapies to help manage episodes and create a healthier lifestyle.
Call 888.428.0562 today to get started.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder
While the exact cause is unknown, genetics and biology both seem to play a role. Bipolar disorder is more common in people who have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with the condition. However, it’s important to note that not everyone with a family history of bipolar disorder will develop the condition.
Brain chemistry also appears to be involved in the development of bipolar disorder. Neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, are chemicals present in the brain that help regulate your mood, and an imbalance of these may trigger episodes of mania or depression.
Environmental factors, such as stress or trauma, may also contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder. Stress from job loss, relationship difficulties, financial problems, or other life events can be a potential trigger for episodes.
Can you develop bipolar disorder? The short answer is yes. However, getting treatment at the earliest signs can mean the difference between getting it under control and the condition worsening.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder
In order to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you must experience the symptoms associated with manic and depressive episodes. You may experience one extreme more often than the other or have mixed episodes (which include both mania and depression). It’s also important to understand that these symptoms can range in severity from person to person.
Some of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder include:
- Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
- Excessive talking or speaking faster than normal
- Racing thoughts and difficulty concentrating
- Risky behavior, such as drug or alcohol use, that can lead to dangerous situations
- Changes in eating habits or sleep patterns
- Extreme sadness or feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or irritability
Treatment for bipolar disorder is most effective when it’s comprehensive and tailored to your individual needs. This usually includes a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, with proper treatment, it can be managed over time.
Give Honey Lake Clinic a Call Today for Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Let our experienced staff, licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatric specialists guide you to an accurate diagnosis and start you on the path to a healthier and happier tomorrow. Through treatment that addresses the three spheres of the mind, body, and spirit, you can create a life plan that works for your individual needs.
Faith-based treatment ensures that your spiritual as well as psychological needs are being addressed holistically. We understand that bipolar disorder is a complex condition and requires individualized treatment plans to reduce the intensity of symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, contact our mental health team today for help. Call 888.428.0562 or reach out online to get started.
