What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood swings can range from periods of elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity (mania or hypomania) to periods of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities (depression). Explore the different types of bipolar disorder below:
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
Intense feelings of euphoria, appearing unusually wired, excessive energy, insomnia, restlessness, speaking fast or unusually talkative, racing or jumbled thoughts, distractibility, inflated self-esteem, impulsivity, risky behaviours, increased irritability, hypomania
Sadness, worthlessness, anxiety, guilt, emptiness, hopelessness,
decreased interest in activities, fatigue, low energy, forgetfulness,
indecisiveness, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep, changes
in appetite, suicidal thoughts
How can therapy help?
Identify & Support
Provides individuals with with psychoeducation about the condition. Then working together to identify specific triggers and risk factors that may contribute to mood episodes.
Mood Monitoring
Tracking changes in mood, energy levels, and behaviour patterns can help individuals prepare and take proactive steps to prevent or mitigate the severity of manic or depressive episodes.
Skill Building
Building coping skills to manage the challenges associated with bipolar disorder. These skills include distress tolerance, mindfulness, problem-solving, communication, and emotion regulation.
Building a Support System
Strengthening relationships can provide individuals with valuable resources during times of distress. This includes improving communication, resolving conflicts, and enhancing interpersonal relationships.
Why is Trauma-Informed Therapy Important?
Safety & Trust
Prioritizes creating a safe and trusting environment where individuals feel secure to explore past traumas without fear.
Emotional Regulation
Equips individuals with specialized techniques to regulate overwhelming emotions stemming from past traumas or hardships
Empowerment
Empowers individuals to reclaim their sense of control and agency, facilitating the journey towards healing and recovery.
