Overview of Bipolar Disorder

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

One moment, you feel unstoppable—bursting with energy, ideas, and confidence, thriving socially and making memories. Weeks later, you’re drained, exhausted, and unable to leave your bed. Your social battery is empty, and even meeting friends feels like a task.

This is what Bipolar Disorder is—from feeling like you’re on top of the world to feeling like you’ve lost it all—over and over again.

Bipolar Disorder is a condition that causes a shift in your mood, energy levels, concentration, attention, cognition, and activity levels. People with Bipolar Disorder experience manic and depressive episodes, often referred to as emotional “highs” and “lows”.

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Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes, also known as “highs” are periods of abnormally elevated mood, energy, or irritability that last for at least a week or require hospitalisation. During these episodes, you may experience racing thoughts, talk excessively, and engage in risky or impulsive behaviours, such as spending sprees or unsafe activities. While the energy can feel thrilling, the lack of control often leads to harmful consequences.

Depressive Episodes

Depressive episodes involve prolonged periods of sadness, low energy, and a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed. You may struggle with feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. These episodes can make even daily tasks feel insurmountable, often leaving you isolated and overwhelmed. Seeking early Bipolar Depression treatment can prevent the condition from escalating.

Diagnostic Criteria

To diagnose Bipolar Disorder, clinicians at BetterPlace use criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which require distinct patterns of manic or hypomanic and depressive episodes. Your initial  90-minute evaluation with our experts typically involves a thorough review of your medical history, chief complaints, symptoms experienced, and interviews with you and a close family member or friend. Accurate diagnosis is crucial as it guides appropriate planning and intervention for Bipolar Disorder treatments.

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Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I is marked by severe manic episodes that last at least seven days or require hospitalisation. Depressive episodes often occur as well, typically lasting two weeks or longer.

Bipolar II Disorder

This type involves less intense manic episodes, known as hypomania, alongside prolonged depressive episodes. While the highs are less severe, the depressive phases can significantly affect daily functioning.

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Different Bipolar Disorder Treatments

Effective Bipolar Disorder treatments often combine medication, Bipolar Disorder therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. These approaches work together to stabilise your mood, prevent relapses, and enhance your overall well-being.

Pharmacological Treatments : Pharmacological treatments play a key role in managing Bipolar Disorder by stabilising your mood and preventing extreme highs and lows. Mood stabilisers, such as lithium, are particularly effective in balancing brain chemistry and reducing mood swings. Lithium, one of the oldest and most widely used treatments, is especially beneficial for managing manic episodes.

Anticonvulsants : Initially designed to treat epilepsy, have also proven effective as mood stabilisers. Antipsychotic medications are often used to address acute manic episodes or severe depressive symptoms, providing relief from extreme states.

Antidepressants : are helpful in Bipolar Depression treatment, however, they are typically used cautiously as they can sometimes trigger manic episodes. The combination and choice of these medications are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a balanced approach to your Bipolar Disorder treatment.

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Psychotherapy Options

Psychotherapy, or simply Bipolar Disorder supportive therapy, offers valuable tools for managing Bipolar Disorder by addressing your thought patterns, behaviours, and promoting healthier interpersonal relationships. Bipolar therapists typically use Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a widely used approach that helps you recognise and change negative thought patterns that may trigger or exacerbate your mood swings. By building healthier coping mechanisms, Bipolar Disorder therapy fosters better emotional stability.

 Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) : focuses on establishing and maintaining stable daily routines, such as consistent sleep and meal schedules, which can significantly regulate mood. Family-Focused Therapy is another effective option, aimed at improving communication within families and educating loved ones about Bipolar Disorder to create a supportive environment.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) : combines mindfulness practices with strategies for emotional regulation, helping you navigate mood instability more effectively. Together, these therapies offer a comprehensive framework for managing the challenges of Bipolar Disorder.

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Neuromodulatory Therapies

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) : Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) involves applying mild electrical currents to targeted areas of your brain to modulate neural activity. This therapy enhances the brain’s ability to regulate mood, making it a promising option for addressing depressive and manic symptoms with minimal side effects. While tDCS is already currently used as a Bipolar Disorder treatment, it is best used in tandem with other conventional Bipolar Disorder treatments such as medication and Bipolar Disorder therapy. Research is still ongoing to refine tDCS and understand its long-term effectiveness.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) : Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of your brain, particularly those associated with mood regulation. rTMS is most commonly used to treat depressive symptoms, often as an alternative for people who haven’t achieved relief through conventional treatment methods such as medications or psychotherapy. rTMS is painless and typically administered in outpatient settings, with studies showing significant mood improvements in many people suffering from Bipolar Disorder.

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Integrative and Supportive Therapies

 Psychoeducation 

Psychoeducation is a foundational aspect of Bipolar Disorder treatments. It helps build a deeper understanding of the disorder by educating you and your family about the condition, its symptoms, and the treatment options. This awareness fosters better communication within your family, reduces stigma around the condition, and encourages adherence to Bipolar Disorder treatment plans. Your family plays a crucial role, and their involvement can significantly enhance the outcome by creating a more supportive environment for you at home.

Lifestyle and Self-Management Strategies

Taking care of yourself is about finding balance, and lifestyle habits play a huge role in keeping your mind and body in sync. One of the most important things you can do is stick to a regular sleep schedule. When your sleep schedule is inconsistent, it can cause irritable mood, hormonal imbalances, and low productivity. Make sleep a priority and go to bed around the same time each night—this helps your body maintain the natural sleep-wake cycle and keeps your mood more balanced.

Eating well and staying active are just as important. Fueling your body with a balanced diet gives your brain the nutrients to stay sharp and healthy. And don’t forget about exercise! Moving your body regularly doesn’t just boost your mood—but it also gives you more energy and helps melt all the stress away. So, whether it’s a morning walk, dancing around your living room, or hitting the gym, find ways to stay active and make a real difference in how you feel every day.

Support Groups and Peer Support

Support groups offer you an invaluable sense of connection and community. Sharing experiences with others who understand your challenges fosters emotional support and a sense of belonging. Peer groups also provide practical coping strategies and encouragement, reinforcing the importance of seeking help and staying committed to your Bipolar Disorder treatment.

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Choosing the Right Treatment Plan

Choosing the Right Treatment Plan

Selecting the right Bipolar Disorder treatment plan requires a holistic and personalised approach. Your treatment must be tailored to address your unique symptoms, personal preferences, and lifestyle factors because no two people experience the condition similarly. This ensures that the plan is both effective and sustainable over the long term.

Personalised treatment approaches begin with assessing individual needs. A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional helps identify the specific challenges you are facing, including the severity and frequency of mood episodes. This assessment lays the groundwork for a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and circumstances.

The importance of comprehensive care cannot be overstated. Combining medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments addresses the full spectrum of Bipolar Disorder symptoms. Medication stabilises mood, therapy provides tools for managing emotional and interpersonal challenges, and lifestyle changes, such as regular sleep patterns and exercise, reinforce stability.

Monitoring and adjusting treatment is an ongoing process. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers ensure the plan remains effective and allows for modifications as needed. This might involve tweaking medication dosages, exploring new therapy techniques, or addressing changes in life circumstances. A dynamic and responsive approach helps maintain progress and prevents relapses, empowering you to live a fulfilling life.

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Our Doctors for Compassionate Bipolar Disorder Therapy

Ms. Lovleena Sharma

M.Phil Clinical Psychology


Therapy Mode Online, In-person

Languages Hindi, English

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Ms. Ayushi Paul

M.Phil Clinical Psychology


Therapy Mode Online, In-person

Languages Hindi, English, Bengali

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5.0 / 5
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Compassionate Bipolar Disorder Therapy from Trusted Experts

At BetterPlace, our experts have helped over 50,000 people navigate various mental health challenges. With specialised training and years of experience, we’re here to support you with the care you deserve.

  • Agoraphobia
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  • Anxiety and panic attacks
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  • Binge Eating
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Body dysmorphic disorder
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  • Claustrophobia
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  • Panic disorder
  • Personality disorders
  • PTSD
  • Postpartum depression
  • Schizoaffective disorder
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  • Social Anxiety Disorder
  • Sleep disorders

Our Approach to Personalised Bipolar Disorder Care

Advanced diagnostics

We believe your treatment starts as soon as you walk in through our door. Our laser-sharp focus on case assessment and diagnostics allows us to treat your condition accurately and effectively.

40+ years of experience

The Clinical Governance team of BetterPlace goes through every case meticulously and guides our treatment approach for the best outcomes.

Dedicated post-treatment follow-ups

Our mental health professionals conduct regular check-ins with you to track your progress for better and faster healing.

Continued guidance for caregivers

Our clinical psychologists are the beacon of guidance for you and your loved ones. We understand that a mental illness doesn't just affect you, but also your loved ones.

Visiting BetterPlace?

When visiting BetterPlace, you can expect a welcoming environment where there is 0% judgment.

Detailed initial session (90 min)

Meet with both a psychologist and a psychiatrist

Comprehensive testing

Get an accurate understanding of your mental health

Treatment phase (3-8 Weeks)

Get a personalised treatment plan

Long-Term Support

Get ongoing care with regular follow-ups

Transformation Stories at BetterPlace

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A lifeline in my toughest moments

For years I jumped between high and lows that were impossible to control — I felt like king of the world one day and down in the dumps the next. It was really frustrating and scary. I had completely lost my sense of self. But meeting Dr Akul changed that. With his guidance and the right medication, I am now slowly regaining control of my life and being able to focus on what matters most without getting sucked into the extremes.

 

Meena P
Trauma kept me up at night

For years, I feared going to bed because of nightmares. Every night the nightmare would be so bad that I couldn’t even continue my sleep. I used to sleep at 12 pm and wake up at 3-4 am because of them. I visited a few somnologists who told me everything in my body was working well there was nothing wrong, and suggested to see a psychologist. That’s when I visited BetterPlace and I found out the nightmares come from a past trauma I experienced. Therapy helped me confront my PTSD and develop coping techniques to reclaim my nights. Sleep is finally peaceful again.

 

Adhiraj R
Therapy changed my inner voice

I used to lie awake at night replaying every little mistake I made during the day. Somehow  I felt trapped, endlessly thinking about the could’ve and should’ve. Therapy helped me change that inner dialogue and let go of the impossible standards I set for myself. Now, I rest easier—mentally and physically.

 

Kavya M

Mental Health Partners to the prestigious National Heart Institute

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Frequently Asked Questions

The most effective Bipolar Disorder therapy is a combination of medication and psychotherapy, tailored to your specific needs.

Neuromodulatory therapies such as Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) target specific areas of your brain to stimulate or inhibit neuronal activity. This approach is completely non-invasive and changes brain activity to foster brain plasticity.

Hospitalisation may be required during severe manic or depressive episodes of Bipolar Disorder, especially if there’s a risk of harm to self or others.

While lifestyle changes are helpful, Bipolar Disorder cannot be managed with just lifestyle changes alone. Bipolar Disorder therapy and medication are important components of a successful Bipolar Disorder treatment plan.

Family therapy helps improve communication between the family members, reduces relational stress, and provides education to you and your family members about the disorder, supporting your overall Bipolar Disorder treatment.

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