Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions. It involves cycles of depression and elevated mood, known as mania or hypomania, that can be disruptive to everyday life and emotional well-being.
At Gianan Health, we recognize how bipolar disorder can impact your sense of stability. Our goal is to offer support that’s informed, respectful, and grounded in a compassionate understanding of each individual’s unique experience.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of depression and episodes of mania or hypomania. The mood shifts that occur during these episodes can significantly affect energy levels, sleep, behavior, decision-making, and the ability to manage daily responsibilities.
There are several forms of bipolar disorder. The most commonly diagnosed types include:
- Bipolar I Disorder: Involves at least one manic episode, often alternating with periods of depression. Mania may lead to risky behavior, impaired judgment, or hospitalization.
- Bipolar II Disorder: Involves at least one hypomanic episode (a less intense form of mania) and one major depressive episode. Individuals with Bipolar II often spend more time in depressive states.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves frequent mood swings with symptoms that don’t meet full criteria for depression or mania, but still cause distress or disruption.
Everyone’s experience with bipolar disorder is different. Some individuals cycle rapidly between moods, while others may have long periods of emotional stability between episodes.
Symptoms of Depression and Mania
During a Depressive Episode, symptoms may include:
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Low energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Thoughts of death or suicide
During a Manic Episode, symptoms may include:
- Elevated or irritable mood
- Increased energy and reduced need for sleep
- Rapid speech or racing thoughts
- Impulsivity or poor decision-making
- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
- Distractibility and disorganized behavior
- Engaging in risky or out-of-character activities
Hypomania involves similar symptoms as mania, but they are typically less severe and don’t cause the same level of impairment.
These symptoms can vary in intensity, length, and frequency. Some people may feel confused or discouraged by these shifts, especially when they disrupt relationships, work, or overall stability.
When to Seek Support
Bipolar disorder can be difficult to recognize, especially in its early stages. People may attribute symptoms to stress, personality traits, or external circumstances. However, untreated bipolar disorder can lead to worsening symptoms and increased risk for complications such as financial problems, relationship strain, or hospitalization.
You might consider seeking support if:
- You’ve experienced periods of depression and high energy or unusual confidence
- Your mood shifts are affecting your ability to work, maintain relationships, or care for yourself
- You feel out of control during certain times and unsure why
- You’ve been told by others that your mood or behavior changes suddenly
- You’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or concerned about how to manage it all
Reaching out doesn’t mean you need to have everything figured out. It simply means you’re open to receiving support from professionals who understand.
Treatment at Gianan Health
At Gianan Health, we believe effective treatment for bipolar disorder involves more than managing symptoms. Together, we’ll work on understanding your patterns, maintaining stability, and creating a plan that fits your life.
- Medication Management: Mood stabilizers or other psychiatric medications may be used to reduce the severity or frequency of mood episodes. These are prescribed carefully and monitored closely to ensure effectiveness and tolerability.
- Psychotherapy: Therapy plays a key role in helping individuals recognize early warning signs, manage stress, and maintain routines that support emotional balance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may all be helpful.
- Collaborative Care: We understand that bipolar disorder affects many areas of life. Our providers work with you to develop a care plan that takes into account your goals, strengths, and concerns—always with respect and transparency.
We recognize that living with bipolar disorder is not about “fixing” who you are. It’s about learning how to navigate the highs and lows in a way that allows for safety, growth, and greater peace of mind.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in Bolingbrook, Naperville, and the Chicago Suburbs
Bipolar disorder is more common than many people realize, and seeking treatment is a brave, important step. With the right support, it is possible to lead a fulfilling, meaningful life, even when the path feels uncertain at times.
At Gianan Health, we’re here to listen, to help you find clarity, and to walk with you through the ups and downs of your journey. New patients can expect to be scheduled within 1-2 weeks of reaching out. For appointments, call us today at 630-340-1620.