Preferred Acute Hospital for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by fluctuations, so symptoms will fluctuate too. They depend on the type of episode a person is experiencing: manic, hypomanic, or depressive. These episodes can vary in frequency, duration, and severity. 

Signs of a manic (or hypomanic) episode may include: 

• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity 

• Decreased need for sleep 

• Compulsive talking 

• Racing thoughts or rapid shifting from one idea to another 

• Heightened distractibility 

• Elevated activity or physical restlessness 

• Risky or impulsive behavior (e.g., overspending, unsafe sex) 

Signs of a depressive episode may include: 

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness 

• Loss of pleasure in hobbies or interests 

• Changes in appetite or weight 

• Fatigue, loss of energy, or changes in sleep 

• Restlessness 

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness 

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 

• Thoughts of death or suicide 

Symptoms may last days, weeks, or longer and can disrupt school, work, relationships, and daily functioning. You may experience periods of stability between episodes or cycle frequently from one episode to the next. 

According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, bipolar disorder affects approximately 5.7 million adult Americans every year.  

While the exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, research points to a number of influences that may make someone more likely to be affected. 

Any of the following factors may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder: 

• Genetics: Bipolar disorder often runs in families. Having a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has bipolar disorder increases the likelihood that you may also have the disorder.  

• Brain structure and function: Research indicates that there may be differences in the size and activity of certain brain structures in people who have bipolar disorder, suggesting that biological factors may play a role. 

• Chemical imbalances: Differences in neurotransmitter function may change the way the brain regulates mood, causing or exacerbating intense mood swings. 

• Stress and trauma: Stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved one, abuse, or major life transitions, can trigger the onset or worsening of symptoms in someone who is predisposed to bipolar disorder. 

• Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug use can worsen symptoms or make bipolar disorder harder to diagnose accurately. 

It’s just as important, though, to remember what does not cause bipolar disorder. It is not a reflection of any personal weakness or character flaw. Just like any other medical condition, it arises from a combination of biological and environmental factors and should be treated with professional care.  

If left untreated, bipolar disorder can have a significant impact on nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Potential effects include: 

• Relationship strain: The extreme mood shifts of bipolar disorder can be confusing or hurtful to loved ones, leading to conflict, mistrust, or isolation. 

• Inconsistent academic or career performance: Unpredictable changes in mood and energy can make it difficult to concentrate at work or in school.  

• Financial trouble: Impulsive thinking during manic episodes can lead to risky behaviors, such as excessive spending or poor investment decisions. 

• Legal issues: Impaired judgment during manic phases may lead to arrests or other legal problems. 

• Substance abuse: Some people who have bipolar disorder turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms. 

• Suicidal thoughts: People who have bipolar disorder are at higher risk for suicidal ideation, especially during depressive episodes. 

Recognizing and treating bipolar disorder early can help reduce the risk for these outcomes and support long-term stability. 

There are many misconceptions about bipolar disorder that can lead to stigma, misunderstanding, and delayed treatment. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths: 

Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings.
Truth: Bipolar episodes are much more intense than the everyday ups and downs all of us experience in the normal course of life. Bipolar mood swings can severely impact your relationships, work or academic performance, and day-to-day routine. 

Myth: People who have bipolar disorder are always either manic or depressed.
Truth: Many people experience periods of stability between episodes. This may, in fact, lead some people to believe that they can manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder on their own.  

Myth: Mania is just being really happy or productive.
Truth: While some manic episodes may feel euphoric at first, they can quickly become disruptive or even dangerous. Manic episodes may lead to impulsive behaviors, like overspending, unsafe sex, and poor investment decisions that carry negative financial, legal, and personal consequences.  

Myth: People who have bipolar disorder can’t lead successful lives.
Truth: With the right care and support, many people learn to successfully manage bipolar disorder symptoms and are able to thrive in their personal and professional lives. 

With proper care for bipolar disorder, you can gain greater control of your symptoms, experience fewer and less intense mood swings, and build healthier ways of coping with life’s challenges. Benefits of receiving effective treatment may include: 

• More stable moods: Treatment can help reduce the severity and frequency of mood swings, minimizing both manic highs and depressive lows. It can help you identify the triggers that contribute to mood episodes so that you can be more proactive in managing symptoms. 

• Less irritability: Many people find that treatment helps them feel calmer and less easily agitated. 

• Improved daily functioning: As your mood becomes more stable, it can be easier to focus, stay organized, and be productive at work or school. 

• Stronger coping skills: You can learn practical tools to manage stress and emotional ups and downs. 

• Lower risk for substance use: Effective treatment reduces the need to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. 

• Fewer suicidal thoughts: Managing symptoms effectively can significantly reduce the risk for suicidal ideation or self-harm. 

Seeking professional care can be life-changing for those who have bipolar disorder. Treatment may include: 

• Medication: A psychiatrist may prescribe and monitor the effects of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or antidepressants. 

• Therapy: Modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy can help individuals build coping skills and maintain stability. 

• Support: Group therapy, peer support, and education for family members can improve patients’ treatment outcomes and quality of life. 

• Lifestyle strategies: Consistent sleep, routine, nutrition, and stress management are vital for maintaining balance.
   

People in the Greenville, North Carolina, area can access comprehensive bipolar disorder treatment at our hospital. Seeking help is a sign of strength and a critical first step toward stability and hope. 

At ECU Health Behavioral Health Hospital, we are dedicated to helping adults who are living with bipolar disorder find relief, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. 

Here’s what sets us apart: 

• Expertise in treating bipolar disorder: Our team of psychiatrists, master’s-level therapists, and support staff has extensive experience treating bipolar disorder and co-occurring conditions. 

• Personalized care: As a patient, you will receive a customized treatment plan that is designed to meet your specific needs. 

• Levels of care: We offer inpatient, partial hospitalization – coming soon, and intensive outpatient programs – coming soon. 

• Safe, supportive environment: Our hospital provides a structured setting to help patients stabilize and begin their healing journey. 

• Whole-person approach: We treat the whole person to address the physical, emotional, and social factors that impact their well-being. 

Healing is possible, and it begins with a single step. Contact us today to learn more about our bipolar disorder treatment center or begin the admissions process.