BIPOLAR DISORDERS

More than a mood swing, bipolar disorder can be devastating to the person it affects and his or her loved ones; bipolar disorder is best described as a mental health disorder of the brain that creates unusual changes in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function in everyday life. Bipolar disorder is different from normal ups and downs associated with dealing with normal life circumstances in that bipolar disorder is severe, affecting work, relationships, school, and can cause suicide. More than 2 million adult Americans suffer from bipolar disorder. People who have bipolar disorder normally begin showing symptoms in adolescence or early adulthood.

A person with bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, swings from high periods of elation to deeply saddened periods of hopelessness and back again, often showing periods of normalcy between. A person suffering from bipolar disorder is not only affected by mood changes, but also changes in energy levels and behaviors. These periods are called episodes, and some symptoms of manic episodes (the high periods) include:

· Increased activity, energy, or restlessness
· Overly good, elated mood; euphoria
· Irritability
· Racing thoughts and rapid, increased speech, jumping from topic to topic
· Inability to concentrate
· Decreased need for sleep
· Feelings of unrealistic grandiose
· Poor judgment involving risk factors like spending, sex, and substance abuse
· Inappropriate social behavior

A person who suffers from bipolar disorder may then follow the manic episode with a major depressive episode, where they may feel extremely sad, hollow, or hopeless. Symptoms of a major depressive episode may include:

· Feeling sad, anxious, hopeless, empty, or pessimistic
· Feeling guilty, worthless, or powerless
· Loss of pleasure or interest in hobbies or enjoyable activities
· Fatigue; lack of energy
· Increased need for sleep
· Change in appetite or weight
· Inability to concentrate
· Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Bipolar disorder is different with every person that suffers from it. There are many forms of bipolar disorder based on the length and frequency of episodes, or the severity. No matter what form of bipolar disorder a person experiences, substance abuse often occurs with it, usually as a form of self-medication. During a manic episode, use of cocaine, alcohol, and sleep aids are particularly common. This often makes the manic episodes worse, or simply spirals the individual into a depressive episode, which leads to more substance abuse.

When a person who suffers from bipolar disorder also suffers from drug and/or alcohol addiction, intense treatment is urged. At Gulf Coast Recovery, clients receive more than just the treatment that a detox center provides. Gulf Coast Recovery understands that successful recovery from substance abuse requires successful treatment of bipolar disorder. A combination of group therapy, individual counseling, and medication is utilized to ensure successful of a client based on their unique needs.

Located in beautiful, sunny Treasure Island, FL, Gulf Coast recovery provides a serene, relaxing environment so that a client can focus on their treatment and recovery. If you or someone you love is suffering from substance abuse and bipolar disorder, please contact Gulf Coast Recovery today for more information on treatment options and programs.