A person with bipolar disorder can experience episodes of depression as well as episodes of mania. Depressive episodes often involve low energy and a poor mood, and episodes of mania are characterized by high energy and an elevated, sometimes euphoric mood.
These episodes can last for hours, days, weeks, or even months. Some people also experience psychosis as a symptom. It is estimated that up to seven out of ten people with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed at least once. However, when bipolar disorder is correctly diagnosed, treatment is often effective.
If you or someone you know may need help with bipolar disorder, contact our friendly, professional staff at Illumination Mental Health at 747.285.7504 for bipolar disorder therapy in Los Angeles.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Several signs and symptoms may suggest that a person has bipolar disorder. These signs usually appear when people are in their early 20s, but children and teens can also show symptoms.
Symptoms of both manic episodes and depressive episodes must be present in order for a bipolar diagnosis to be made. Anyone who experiences these symptoms can benefit from seeking help from our bipolar disorder treatment program in Los Angeles, CA.
While everyone has ups and downs, these swings are more extreme, more rhythmic, and longer-lasting for those who have bipolar disorder. Symptoms of mania and depression characterize this group of mood disorders.
Signs and Symptoms of Manic Episodes
Mania is diagnosed when at least three of the following symptoms are present:
- Feeling fully rested after only short periods of sleep
- Rapid thoughts or speech
- Distraction by external stimuli
- Difficulty in work or social settings
- Inflated feelings of grandiosity or self-esteem
- Participation in high-risk activities
- Excessive impulsiveness
Manic episodes last for at least a week and are typified by irritable, expansive, or elevated moods. The mania must not be the result of a medication or other substance.
Signs and Symptoms of Depressive Episodes
Episodes of depression are characterized by low mood and feelings of a lack of pleasure in all things. When five or more of the following symptoms are present, a major depressive episode is indicated:
- Decreased joy from or interest in activities
- Lack of energy
- Insomnia or sleeping excessively
- Suicidal behaviors or thoughts
- Inability to focus on tasks
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Decreased appetite
To be considered a depressive episode, these symptoms must last at least two weeks and make work or other social situations challenging.
Getting Help at Our Bipolar Treatment Center in Los Angeles, CA
Medications that are properly prescribed can effectively control the symptoms of bipolar disorder. All five types of bipolar disorders can be successfully treated with bipolar disorder therapy at Illumination Mental Health. These are:
- Bipolar I
- Bipolar II
- Cyclothymia
- Rapid cycling bipolar disorder
- Unspecified bipolar and related disorders
Our inpatient program provides a fully committed approach to treatment; our guests are separated from external triggers and distractions, which increases the impact of bipolar disorder treatment.
Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Los Angeles at Illumination Mental Health
At Illumination Mental Health, our staff offers specialized individual and group therapy that is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as part of our inpatient treatment program. We provide positive guidance and support to every guest who enters through our doors.
Addressing and controlling the symptoms of bipolar disorders through empathetic, personalized treatment is essential to regaining your life and rediscovering your happiness. Don’t wait any longer to take the first important step in improving your life.
Contact us at 747.285.7504 for more information about how our bipolar disorder treatment program in Los Angeles, CA, at Illumination Mental Health can help.
