

Struggling with Depression or Bipolar Disorder?
We offer support groups

Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I Disorder (mania or a mixed episode)
This is the classic manic-depressive form of the illness, characterized by at least one manic episode or mixed episode. Usually Bipolar I Disorder also involves at least one episode of depression.
Bipolar II Disorder (hypomania and depression)
In Bipolar II disorder, you don't experience full-blown manic episodes. Instead, the illness involves episodes of hypomania and severe depression.
Cyclothymia (hypomania and mild depression)
Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder that consists of cyclical mood swings. However, the symptoms are less severe than full-blown mania or depression.
Treatment of bipolar disorder generally begins with the goal of bringing a patient with mania or depression to symptomatic recovery and stable mood.
Becoming healthy with bipolar disorder involves the combination of therapy, medication and peer support groups.

There are steps a peer or caregiver can take to help prevent a manic episode or hypomania.
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Firstly, know the warning signs of a manic episode/hypomania (below we list the symptoms).
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Write and record with a mood chart. Tracking your mood helps catch early on symptoms and identify specific triggers.
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Take medicines as instructed by your doctor to help reduce the number of manic episodes.
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To help prevent a manic episode, avoid triggers such as stressful situations, alcohol or drug use.
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Getting good night's sleep is important. Keep a consistent schedule. This can help reduce mood swings and episodes of mania.
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Have an action plan in place. During a manic episode, those who support you can follow the plan and keep you safe.
Mania/Hypomania Symptoms
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Speaking loudly
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Feeling optimistic
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Extremely irritable
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Feeling unusually high
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Behaving jumpy or wired
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Easily distracted
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Taking on new projects
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Restlessness
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Unrealistic beliefs about one’s ability
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Acting impulsively
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Overly happy, outgoing mood
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Sleeping less
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Inflated self-image
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Increased libido
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Risky sexual behaviors
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Jumping from one topic to another
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Rapid, pressured speech
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Speech and thought flying from one thing to the next
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Extreme spending
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Delusions and hallucinations in severe cases
Depressive Symptoms
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Feeling hopeless
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Sadness
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Feeling empty
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Changes in appetite and weight
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Sleeping problems
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Irritability
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Inability to experience pleasure
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Physical and mental sluggishness
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Fatigue or loss of energy
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Concentration or memory problems
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Feeling worthless
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Feelings of guilt
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Thoughts of death or suicide