MANIA!
In everyday conversations, we hear individuals throw around the word bipolar. When someone seems “moody” or their emotions seem to be inconsistent, some flippantly throw around the phrase, “you’re so bipolar.” This couldn’t be any more false.
Celebrities with Bipolar
The diagnosis of bipolar is not a light diagnosis and includes much more than cyclical emotions. Indeed, we see many celebrities coming forward saying they’ve been diagnosed with bipolar. According to CBS News celebrities such as Mariah Carey, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Russell Brand are just a few who publicly shared their diagnosis.
Bipolar 1 vs 2
The difference between someone who seems to have inconsistent emotions and someone truly diagnosed with Bipolar is — MANIA. There are two different types of Bipolar. Bipolar 1 and 2 which are very similar, the difference being the severity of the mania.
Manic episodes last for several days and include an elevated state of energy. For some with bipolar 2, they might even enjoy this elevated state of increased energy and little need for sleep. Some who experience milder forms of mania feel productive and confident. However, those with bipolar 1 have mania episodes that are much more severe and may even require hospitalization.
Manic episodes could include dangerous and risky behaviors, acting out sexually, spending vasts amounts of money, thoughts of and/or suicidal attempts, amongst many other things. To some is may be very apparent that they are experiencing a manic episode; but, not everyone has clear insight into their lives and situations.
Getting Help for Mania
Recognizing the mania and getting connected with the correct help can be a long and arduous journey. For some, they don’t want to accept and acknowledge that these “bad spell” are manic episodes.
When dangerous to self or others it is best to go to the hospital for professional treatment. There are different medications that can help stabilize manic episodes and bipolar. Finding the correct medication and dosage that is appropriate may take time. Working with a psychiatrist or trained medical professional is vital to finding the correct medication. If medication isn’t working or causes uncomfortable side effects, be open and honest with your physician to try and find the right balance.
Working With a Therapist
It would also be beneficial to work with a therapist to process and learn how to cope with the intense emotions or negative consequences that follow a manic episode. One of the difficulties with bipolar, is after a manic episode, it may feel like you’re waking up from a nightmare that happened in real life. The individual who suffered from mania, wakes up to find all their money gone, relationships broken, belongings damaged, etc. Coping with the aftermath can be difficult and devastating. A mental health professional can assist with coping and preparing to try and prevent future episodes.
If you or a loved one struggles with bipolar or manic episodes, please contact Crownview Medical Group to get in touch with a trained medical professional.
