Bipolar Disorder: Managing Mood Swings and Finding Stability

Introduction: Living Between Highs and Lows

Jared always had a vibrant energy—he'd start ambitious projects, talk a mile a minute, and feel invincible. But within weeks, that energy would vanish. He’d withdraw, sleep all day, and question his worth. It wasn’t until his late twenties that he heard the words that finally made it all make sense: bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder isn’t just about moodiness or stress. It’s a chronic mental health condition defined by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. For those living with it, the rollercoaster between highs and lows can feel disorienting and overwhelming. But with the right knowledge, treatment, and support, stability is not only possible—it’s attainable.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Types of Bipolar Disorder:

• Bipolar I Disorder: Involves manic episodes lasting at least 7 days or severe enough to require hospitalization. Depressive episodes typically follow.

• Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (less severe than full mania).

• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least 2 years, without meeting full criteria for either episode.

• Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders: Variants that don’t fit neatly into the above categories.

"Sometimes I feel like I’m two different people—and neither of them is truly me." — Lena, 32

Symptoms: Spotting the Highs and Lows

Manic or Hypomanic Episode Symptoms:

• Elevated or irritable mood

• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity

• Decreased need for sleep

• Racing thoughts

• Rapid speech

• Increased goal-directed activity or risky behavior (spending sprees, impulsive sex, etc.)
  

Depressive Episode Symptoms:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness

• Fatigue or low energy

• Difficulty concentrating

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

• Loss of interest in activities

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

These symptoms affect relationships, work, and overall quality of life. They’re not simply personality traits—they’re part of a complex mental health condition.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

There’s no single cause, but a combination of factors may contribute:

Biological Factors:

• Genetics: A family history of bipolar disorder increases risk.

• Brain structure and function: Differences in brain activity and chemistry can be observed in people with bipolar disorder.
  

Environmental Triggers:

• Stressful life events: Trauma, loss, or significant life changes can trigger episodes.

• Substance use: Drugs and alcohol can exacerbate or trigger symptoms.

“After my mom passed, I hit the highest high and then the lowest low. That’s when I realized it wasn’t just grief—it was something deeper.” — Thomas, 45

Diagnosis: When to Seek Help

Diagnosis involves:

• A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation

• A detailed medical and family history

• Mood charting to identify patterns over time

Bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose—especially Bipolar II, which is often mistaken for depression alone. Early intervention is key.

Treatment Options

While there’s no cure for bipolar disorder, many people manage it successfully with a combination of approaches:

Medication:

• Mood stabilizers: Lithium is the most well-known.

• Antipsychotics: Help control manic or mixed episodes.

• Antidepressants: Used cautiously and often in combination with a mood stabilizer.

Therapy:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps manage distorted thinking and behavior patterns.

• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily rhythms.

• Family-focused therapy: Educates loved ones and improves communication.

Lifestyle and Self-Care:

• Consistent sleep and routine

• Regular exercise

• Monitoring mood changes

• Avoiding drugs and alcohol

“Lithium didn’t erase my symptoms—it gave me the ground to stand on so I could rebuild.” — Marcus, 38

Coping with Bipolar Disorder

Managing bipolar disorder means learning to recognize triggers, set boundaries, and create routines that support stability.

• Use a mood journal or app to track shifts

• Communicate with your support network regularly

• Develop an emergency plan with your care team

• Celebrate progress, even small steps forward

Supporting a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder

• Learn about the disorder to reduce stigma and foster empathy

• Encourage treatment and self-care

• Stay involved without being controlling

• Know the signs of relapse

• Take care of your own mental health too

Final Thoughts: Finding Stability, One Day at a Time

Bipolar disorder is not a character flaw or a weakness. It's a manageable mental health condition, and millions of people lead full, successful lives while living with it.

“The more I understood myself, the more I stopped fearing my diagnosis. It became part of my story—not my whole identity.” — Rachel, 29

There is hope. With awareness, treatment, and support, stability is within reach.

Why Choose The Trahan Therapy Center?

At The Trahan Therapy Center, we believe in walking alongside you through every high and low. We offer:

• Experienced Clinicians specializing in mood disorders and personalized treatment plans

• Compassionate Care that respects your pace and your story

• Innovative Approaches, including evidence-based therapy and holistic support

• Accessible Services, including virtual sessions and flexible hours

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a new chapter in your mental health journey, we’re here to help.

The Trahan Therapy Center — Shaping Minds, Changing Lives