Bipolar Disorder, formally called Manic Depressive Illness, can be a very challenging diagnosis to live with if untreated. Having an unstable mood and no prediction of what might trigger a change, is frustrating and defeating. Frequently, family members, friends and coworkers don’t understand this diagnosis and become impatient with the individual diagnosed with this disorder. Bipolar Disorder is a brain and behavior disorder characterized by severe shifts in a person's mood and energy. Serenity Counseling Center can help with Bipolar Disorder Therapy services in person in Fort Myers or throughout Florida through Online therapy.
More than 5.7 million American adults or 2.6 percent of the population age 18 or older have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Symptoms typically start in late adolescence or early adulthood, although it can show up in children and in older adults. People often live with the disorder without having it properly diagnosed and treated. (bbrfoundation.org, 2017)
Mania Episode Signs and Symptoms:
Increased energy, activity, restlessness
Euphoric mood
Extreme irritability
Poor concentration
Racing thoughts, fast talking, jumping between ideas
Sleeplessness
Heightened sense of self-importance
Spending sprees
Increased sexual behavior
Abuse of drugs, such as cocaine, alcohol and sleeping medications
Provocative, intrusive or aggressive behavior
Denial that anything is wrong
Depressive Episode Signs:
Sad, anxious or empty-feeling mood
Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, including sex
Decreased energy, fatigue
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Restlessness and irritability
Sleeplessness or sleeping too much
Change in appetite, unintended weight loss or gain
Bodily symptoms not caused by physical illness or injury
Thoughts of death or suicide
Ready to take Next Steps for Bipolar Disorder Therapy?
In sessions your counselor will work with you on identifying triggers, learning to be more balanced and mindful, changing thoughts and behaviors; along with evaluating family/relationship dynamics, sleep patterns, diet, exercise, support and self-care. The best treatment for this diagnosis is therapy and medication combined. Through proper treatment it is possible to live a healthy and happy life after being diagnosed.
