When people think of bipolar disorder, they usually focus on the extreme shifts of mood this “manic-depressive disorder” is known for causing. However, there’s a lot more to this condition than meets the eye.

At Compass Mental Health & Wellness in Houston, our experienced team takes the time to get to know each of the people in our care. We also help them understand the complex nature of mental health, especially conditions like bipolar disorder.

If you have bipolar disorder, here’s a good overview of the condition and some things you may not be aware of.

There are different types of bipolar disorder

The first thing to know is that all cases of bipolar disorder are not the same.

Not only does this condition vary distinctly from person to person, but there are seven types of the disorder, which are as follows:

• Bipolar I, which is characterized by at least one manic episode
• Bipolar II, which is characterized by at least one hypomanic episode
• Cyclothymic disorder, which is characterized by rapid cycles of hypomanic and depressive symptoms
• Substance/medication-induced bipolar and related disorder
• Bipolar and related disorder due to another medical condition
• Other specified bipolar and related disorder
• Unspecified bipolar and related disorder

Each type of bipolar disorder also has its own specifier, which can further clarify your diagnosis and offer more insights into the best course of treatment for symptom management.

Bipolar disorder can affect anyone

Learning you have bipolar disorder can leave you feeling alone. However, it impacts both women and men, and it touches all races, ethnic groups, ages, and social classes.

In the United States, experts estimate that 5.7 million adults experience bipolar disorder, or 2.6% of people ages 18 and older. Its exact cause isn’t known. However, certain things can increase your risks of developing the condition or triggering your symptoms, such as:

• Having a close relative (sibling or parent) with the condition
• Experiencing periods of high stress
• Living with medical conditions, such as asthma or irritable bowel syndrome
• Misusing substances, such as drugs or alcohol

Bipolar disorder can also develop when you have higher or lower levels of certain neurotransmitters in your body. Nerve cells in your body use these chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, to send messages between your brain and body.

You can treat bipolar disorder

Not only is bipolar disorder very responsive to treatment, but you can have balanced emotions that help you live a stable, fulfilling, and successful life.

Our team takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating all conditions, including bipolar disorder. As part of your evaluation and treatment strategy, we could recommend a combination of approaches, such as:

• Medication management
• Counseling and talk therapy
• Mindfulness techniques
• Nutrition counseling
• Lifestyle changes
• Exercise strategies
• Primary care services, such as diabetes treatment

With our holistic care, you can develop the healthy strategies you need to manage your bipolar disorder diagnosis.

Are you concerned that you or someone you love has bipolar disorder? We can give you the help you need. To learn more, schedule a consultation at Compass Mental Health & Wellness by calling (281) 836-5452 or booking an appointment online today.