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Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes significant changes in energy, motivation, sleep, and emotional intensity. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression, mania, hypomania, or mixed states. These shifts are not moodiness or personality flaws — they are the result of real changes in how the brain regulates emotions and stress.


Biologically, bipolar disorder is linked to differences in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate, and in the brain circuits that control mood, impulse regulation, and sleep. Genetics, hormones, circadian rhythm disruptions, and stress can all influence symptoms and episode patterns.


Psychologically, bipolar disorder can impact the way a person interprets events and experiences. During depressive phases, thoughts may become self-critical, hopeless, or overwhelmed. During manic or hypomanic phases, thinking may become fast, optimistic, or impulsive, sometimes leading to risky decisions or conflict. Many people also struggle with shame, fear of future episodes, or feeling misunderstood by others — especially when symptoms fluctuate.

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With the right treatment and support, most people with bipolar disorder can achieve stability, rebuild confidence, and live full, meaningful lives.

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What Are the Symptoms?

Depressive Symptoms​​

  • Persistent sadness or emptiness

  • Loss of interest in activities

  • Low energy or fatigue

  • Sleep changes (too much or too little)

  • Changes in appetite or weight

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Feelings of guilt or hopelessness

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Manic/Hypomanic Symptom

  • Increased energy or activity

  • Decreased need for sleep

  • Feeling unusually confident or “on top of the world”

  • Racing thoughts or fast speech

  • Impulsive or risky behavior

  • Irritability or agitation

  • Starting many projects without finishing

Mixed Episodes

  • Symptoms of depression and mania at the same time, often “wired but tired” feeling

  • Racing thoughts with hopelessness

  • Agitation, irritability, or restlessness

  • Higher risk of impulsive or unsafe behavior

How Is Bipolar Disorder  Treated?

Bipolar disorder is highly treatable, and the most effective care is personalized to each individual. Treatment may include:

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Supportive therapy

  • DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed approaches

  • Learning coping skills, emotional regulation, thought-shifting, and habits that support mental health

Medication

  • Mood stabilizers and/or atypical antipsychotics

  • Antidepressants may be used carefully in combination with a mood stabilizer

  • Medication can help restore brain-chemical balance, stabilize mood, and improve sleep, thinking, and energy

Lifestyle & Support

  • Sleep routine and circadian rhythm stabilization

  • Nutrition, exercise, sunlight exposure

  • Stress reduction and coping tools

  • Family or partner support when helpful

  • Avoiding substances that can trigger episodes

Advanced Treatment Options

For people with more severe or treatment-resistant symptoms, options may include:

  • Ketamine therapy

  • Esketamine (Spravato)

  • TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)

  • Electroconvulsive therapy

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How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health

Living with bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, unpredictable, or isolating but you do not have to manage it alone. We understand that mood changes are not a choice, and we approach care with compassion, patience, and respect.


We take time to learn your history, your patterns, your triggers, and how symptoms affect your relationships, responsibilities, and daily life. We talk through treatment options openly and honestly, and we never push medication. Some people benefit from therapy alone, while others do well with a combination of therapy and medication you are always part of the decision-making process.


Our goal is to help you find stability, regain control, and feel more like yourself. With the right support, people with bipolar disorder can thrive and we are here to help you get there, step by step, at a pace that feels safe and comfortable.

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