Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes changes in a person’s mood, energy levels, and ability to function. This condition is characterized by manic and depressive episodes. During a manic episode, you might feel abnormally happy or extremely irritable, while depression episodes cause low mood and energy.

There are three types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. People with bipolar I disorder experience severe manic episodes, while people with bipolar II deal with less severe episodes known as hypomania. On the other hand, cyclothymic disorder causes less severe symptoms of both hypomania and depressive episodes.

The symptoms of mania include:[3]

• Decreased need for sleep
• Talkativeness or faster speech patterns
• Uncontrollable racing thoughts or quickly changing topics while speaking
• Distractibility
• Increased activity
• Increased impulsive or risky behavior

People with bipolar I disorder might experience the symptoms of psychosis during a severe manic episode. As a result, many individuals with this condition require frequent hospitalization or constant medication to balance the chemicals in their brains.

The symptoms of a depressive episode may include:[3]

• Intense feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Increased fatigue
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Changes in appetite
• Restlessness or slowed speech patterns
• Trouble concentrating
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

Unfortunately, people with bipolar disorder often abuse drugs or alcohol while depressed to elevate their mood. They are also prone to substance abuse during manic episodes due to impulsivity and other factors.

If you suffer from bipolar disorder, you might be wondering how treatment works. At Moving Mountains Recovery Center, we provide a variety of services and treatment methods to ensure our patients receive the tools they need to recover.:

When you arrive at our New Jersey bipolar disorder treatment facility, the mental health professionals at Moving Mountains Recovery Center will assess your physical and mental health. This is done to ensure that you receive services relevant to your needs and goals.

The assessment you participate in may include:

• Observing your behavior and mood
• Obtaining your medical and mental health history
• Gathering information about your mood swings and patterns
• Obtaining information about your family’s physical and mental health history
• Determining whether you suffer from co-occurring substance use disorder
• Performing a physical exam to ensure your symptoms are not from a physical health condition
• Performing laboratory tests to check for drug levels or health conditions
• Speaking with your family members to receive information about your condition when appropriate

Once your treatment plan is created you will begin individual therapy with your bipolar disorder therapist. At Moving Mountains Recovery Center, we use evidence-based therapies to address the root causes of your problems while teaching you how to identify and change unhealthy thoughts or behavior patterns.

Examples of therapies we use to treat bipolar disorder include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Motivational interviewing (MI)
• Interpersonal psychotherapy

Individual therapy will teach you how to identify when a depressive or manic episode is triggered. As a result, you will be better able to manage your symptoms as they arise.

In addition to individual therapy, you will participate in group counseling. Group counseling is intended to provide you with peer support, strengthen your interpersonal skills, and allow you to see how treatment is working for others dealing with similar issues.

Also, you might be asked to participate in family behavior therapy if needed. Family counseling can help you repair broken relationships with your loved ones, educate them on bipolar disorder, and further you in your recovery.

The duration of drug detox is less clear. With most drugs, you can expect some form of withdrawal symptoms within 24 hours from your last use. These symptoms, especially with harder drugs can take as long as weeks or months, and experience what is known as “rebound symptoms.” This means you will feel some of the same withdrawals in the latter stages that you felt early on, but with greater severity. However, these rebound symptoms often mean you are getting closer to the end of the detox process. Speak to an assessment specialist to learn more about your struggle and the timeline you can expect for your recovery.

If you struggle with co-occurring substance abuse issues, you will receive a variety of treatment services to help you gain long-term sobriety. Since addiction can exacerbate the symptoms of bipolar disorder, this is a vital step in recovery.

Treatment services for addiction may include:

• Medical detox
• Evidence-based behavioral therapy
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
• Group and family counseling
• Relapse prevention planning

Bipolar disorder causes chemical imbalances in your brain, so treatment often involves becoming stabilized on medication. These medications will help prevent you from experiencing severe manic or depressive episodes, making it easier to function in your daily life. You will meet with a psychiatrist to determine what type of medication is best suited for you.

If you or a loved one struggles with bipolar disorder, it’s time to seek help. Living with this condition without receiving treatment can negatively impact every area of your life, making it difficult to function effectively.

Our integrated treatment program uses individual counseling, group therapy, family support, adventure therapy, and access to medical and psychiatric services when they are needed. We tailor each of our bipolar disorder treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, recognizing that both mental health and addiction are deeply personal issues. By focusing on the whole person rather than just the addiction, we’re able to help our clients manage their mental health effectively and achieve a sober future.

To learn more about our New Jersey bipolar disorder treatment programs, please contact us today.