Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that frequently goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be so hard to identify. Educating yourself about bipolar disorder will make it easier to figure out whether or not a loved one might have it. If you suspect that a friend or family member may be dealing with bipolar disorder, keep reading to learn more about recognizing bipolar disorder in loved ones. You can also contact Rose Hill Center at 866.367.0220 to learn more about our Holly, Michigan bipolar disorder treatment center.
Recognizing Bipolar Disorder in Loved Ones
Recognizing bipolar disorder isn’t always easy. The main sign of bipolar disorder is extreme mood swings that go from emotional highs to emotional lows. Manic episodes cause people to seem:
- Very energetic
- Euphoric
- Irritable
During depressive episodes, your loved one may seem:
- Sad
- Upset
- Tred all the time
Your loved one may be in a manic episode if they are unusually happy or energetic. They may have an exaggerated sense of confidence and make poor, risky decisions. Signs of mania can also be unusually high levels of talkativeness, a lack of sleep, irritability, and being distracted. If your loved one is in a depressive mode, they may lose interest in activities or responsibilities. Some may struggle with feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or suicide. Often, a depressive episode is accompanied by fatigue, excessive sleeping, difficulty concentrating, or restlessness.
Keep in mind that the periods of depressive and manic symptoms can vary a lot. Some people have manic episodes and depressive episodes that last just a week or two, while others may have symptoms of mania or depression that last for years. The median duration for either period of mood was found to be 13 weeks. Symptoms can be quite mild, so your loved one may just seem slightly energized or lethargic instead of having full-blown mania and depression every time. Some triggers to bipolar disorder symptoms include changing seasons, pregnancy, life changes, or puberty.
How to Distinguish Bipolar Disorder From Other Conditions
Identifying bipolar disorder can be a little tricky because bipolar disorder symptoms are often fairly similar to the symptoms of other mental health conditions. It is most frequently confused with depression. However, depression rarely causes periods of hyper, excited, upbeat, or agitated behavior. Periods of mania might seem similar to ADHD, but ADHD tends to cause constant distractibility. Individuals with bipolar disorder are more at risk for impulsive behavior, so they may also deal with substance abuse by trying to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, the effects of a substance abuse disorder can mimic bipolar mood swings. Therefore, it can be hard to tell the difference between the two until after attending co-occurring rehabilitation services in MI for both disorders.
Rose Hill Center Offers Bipolar Treatment in Michigan
The most important thing to do if you start recognizing any signs of bipolar disorder in a loved one is to encourage them to seek treatment. Pick a calm, relaxed time to bring up your concerns. Avoid judging them or implying their moods are their fault. Instead, emphasize that you love them and think it might be wise for them to meet with a doctor. Often, people will resist getting the bipolar disorder and depression treatment that they need. In these cases, try to remain patient and loving. If you think they are a danger to themselves or others, you may be able to call emergency numbers and seek an involuntary commitment for them.
Bipolar disorder is challenging for both the affected person and their family members, but it does not have to take control of your life. Getting the right treatment for bipolar disorder can help you learn how to manage symptoms. Contact Rose Hill Center at 866.367.0220 for our dedicated bipolar disorder care program that provides high-quality therapy in a relaxing and comforting environment.
