Perhaps you or a loved one has been suffering inexplicable bouts with frequent changes in mood, energy levels, and function. Why?
It could be bipolar disorder. 1% of Canadians will experience bipolar disorder and encounter the aforementioned changes in mood and beyond.
Okay, so lots of Canadians experience bipolar disorder – but what is it? We’ll be providing a brief overview of what bipolar disorder is, its connection with depression, and treatment options.
What is Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is characterized by extreme mood swings. These extreme mood swings are known as episodes of radical highs, mania, and deep lows, depression.
A manic episode may make the individual feel abnormally happy, confident, and “invincible”. People experiencing a manic episode will also typically have racing thoughts, an inability to sleep, and irrational decision-making.
While everybody experiences highs and lows, these are typically only for a couple of hours – mania lasts for days or much longer periods of time. The characteristics of bipolar disorder combined with the potentially long duration of said characteristics mean that bipolar disorder can disrupt school, work, and overall life functionality.
Is it Linked to Depression?
There is a definite link between bipolar disorder and depression – in fact, bipolar was formerly known as “manic depression.” Similar to the aforementioned manic episodes, people with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression.
Someone experiencing a depressive episode will be at an extreme low. They will be uncharacteristically down and lose interest in things that would otherwise be exciting for them. They will also feel tired, have changes in their appetite, and view themselves as worthless/hopeless.
Professionals stopped using the term “manic depression” for a variety of reasons. First, the social stigma surrounding words like “manic,” “mania,” and “maniac” is problematic for those suffering from a real disorder that in no way makes them “crazy.” Second, “manic depression” can be used to describe other disorders – bipolar disorder removes this problem by pinpointing a specific condition.
How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Medication
Medication is a typical treatment for individuals experiencing bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and other similar medications all contribute to mitigating the risk of high and low mood swings.
Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is understood as an effective treatment for bipolar disorder. This treatment helps break down the behaviors and beliefs of the patient to help them approach their disorder from another perspective.
High-quality counseling services, such as Capital Choice Youth Counselling, created specialized plans for bipolar patients that account for their needs and personality. Counsellors will help you understand the causes of the disorder and the best ways to overcome it.
Personalized Bipolar Treatments in Ottawa
Contact Capital Choice Youth Counselling today if you or someone you know is experiencing bipolar disorder and interested in treatment options. Our specialists get to know you and your disorder and treat you with the utmost respect. Each patient receives a personalized experience that will help them overcome their troubles.
Capital Choice Youth Counselling has years of experience treating and helping youths who are going through tough and troubling times. We provide the resources, tools, and skills needed to treat bipolar disorder effectively.