Bipolar disorder is more prevalent than one might think. It’s considered one of the top 10 leading causes of disability worldwide and affects both teens and adults. Despite how common this disorder is, the condition itself is misunderstood and rarely spoken about in society. This causes those living with bipolar disorder to feel isolated and alone. Without treatment, this mental health condition can worsen and become life-threatening.
That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, we provide compassionate and comprehensive treatment for those living with bipolar disorder. Although this condition cannot be cured, it can be treated. Those in recovery can live normal lives with the right treatment and continued support. To understand how bipolar disorder is treated at Driftwood Recovery, we must first understand what bipolar disorder is.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by periods of high (mania, hypomania) and low (depression) mood episodes. These episodes can result in intense shifts in mood, energy levels, thinking patterns, and behaviors. Manic episodes can result in risk-taking and erratic behavior. Hypomania is not as severe as mania, but it can still interfere with a person’s ability to participate in normal life.
There are three main types of bipolar disorder, including:
- Bipolar I disorder: Involves at least one episode of mania that can be extreme and dangerous. Major depression may be experienced, but it is not required for a diagnosis. This type of bipolar disorder is considered the most severe and can result in hospitalization.
- Bipolar II disorder: Though similar to bipolar I, this type always has depressive episodes with occasional hypomania. Bipolar II is not less severe than bipolar I, as it is a separate diagnosis. Sometimes, bipolar II can develop into bipolar I.
- Cyclothymic disorder: Known as cyclothymia, this type of bipolar disorder has less severe highs and lows compared to bipolar I and II, with shorter episodes of hypomanic and depressive symptoms. Cyclothymia can develop into bipolar I or II.
Scientists aren’t sure what causes bipolar disorder, but it’s believed that genetics, brain structure, environment, and lifestyle factors can play a role in its development.
Myths and Facts About Bipolar Disorder
There are a few myths surrounding bipolar disorder that act as a barrier to treatment. Knowing the truth behind these myths is essential not just for encouraging an individual to seek treatment but also for improving public health and awareness.
Myth #1: People With Bipolar Disorder Are Dangerous and Violent
The truth is that people with bipolar disorder are no more violent than an average person. They may say hurtful things in the heat of anger, but physical violence is not caused by bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to harm themselves through risk-taking behavior and suicide than they are to harm another person.
Myth #2: Having Bipolar Disorder Is Good Cause Mania Increases Productivity
During a manic or hypomanic episode, a person may feel more confident or feel little need for sleep. However, these episodes can also cause irritability and difficulty focusing. People in a manic or hypomanic episode may also take unusual risks, which can have negative consequences on their school, work, or social life.
Myth #3: Bipolar Disorder Looks the Same and Is Easy to Diagnose
Though bipolar disorder is marked by unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, how these symptoms present themselves in individuals varies. Some people may rapidly shift between episodes or experience mixed affective states, which can make a diagnosis tricky.
Myth #4: Living With This Disorder Is Impossible
Plenty of people live normal and successful lives while having bipolar disorder. Though the condition cannot be cured, therapy, medication, and coping skills training allow for continuous recovery.
Seeking Treatment at Driftwood Recovery
Treatment for bipolar disorder at Driftwood Recovery varies, but all contain a mix of medication and therapeutic techniques. Psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) help teach emotional regulation and recognize harmful patterns. Medications, such as mood stabilizers, help to mitigate severe symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. Medication management helps clients stay safe while taking medications and get into the habit of managing their health needs. Other therapies, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), can also be useful in treatment depending on the individual’s needs.
Clients are also given training on how to manage their condition. Teaching clients self-care and mindfulness techniques ensure that they stay healthy during and after treatment. Relapse prevention training is also essential in helping clients stay in recovery long after treatment has concluded. These workshops are essential in teaching clients how to manage their disorder without turning or returning to substance use.
Driftwood Recovery, at its core, is a holistic treatment facility. This means that not just the mind is treated, but the body and spirit as well. Clients can expect to use therapeutic techniques such as art therapy, therapeutic recreation, and yoga. Nutritional science is also important, as clients learn how to change their diet to minimize symptoms and improve overall health. Finally, clients are taught that they are not their disorder. Although they have bipolar disorder, it does not define who they are as a person. Building up self-esteem, inspiring courage, and finding understanding are all important for continuous recovery.
Finally, no client is ever alone at Driftwood Recovery. With a robust peer support and alumni program, clients will always have contact with those who understand what they have gone through and the conditions they live with. Preventing isolation and loneliness ensures that no matter where you go, you will always find help at Driftwood Recovery.
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite how common this condition is, those who struggle with it often feel isolated and alone. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, our clients are never alone. With a focus on providing judgment-free, compassionate, and comprehensive treatment, anyone can recover from bipolar disorder and live a normal, successful life. Our holistic treatment philosophy ensures that it’s not just your mind that recovers but your body and spirit as well. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Driftwood Recovery today by calling (512) 759-8330.