Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can cause dramatic shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior, as well as increase the risk of developing a substance use disorder. It affects all aspects of life and is often accompanied by feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and financial instability. Finding the right treatment plan is essential for managing bipolar disorder.
Therapy is an important part of treatment for bipolar disorder and addiction, and plays a major role in helping individuals manage the symptoms and improve their quality of life. Foundations offers a mental health treatment program for co-occurring bipolar disorder in San Francisco, California. Call 415.854.6735 for more information today.
Recognizing the Need for Help
Living with bipolar disorder can be a difficult and often overwhelming experience. The condition is characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to think clearly. During manic episodes, individuals may become overly energetic and talkative and have racing thoughts and impulsive behaviors that can impair judgment. Conversely, during depressive episodes, individuals may feel extremely down or hopeless, have difficulty concentrating or making decisions and even lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.Â
Bipolar disorder can also cause physical health issues such as headaches and stomach problems due to extreme changes in emotions. Additionally, it puts people at higher risk for substance use due to self-medication of symptoms as well as an increased likelihood of suicide attempts or completed suicides when feeling particularly low or having suicidal thoughts. It is important to be aware of the warning signs and seek professional help when necessary.
Untreated bipolar disorder can lead to serious consequences. It is important to recognize the warning signs that treatment is needed so that steps can be taken to manage the disorder effectively. Signs that may indicate the need for treatment include:
- Severe mood swings
- Changes in energy and activity levels
- Extreme feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Neglecting important responsibilities
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Alcohol or drug use as a means of self-medicating
- Psychosis, hallucinations, and hearing voices in some cases
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts to harm oneself
If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone else, it is essential to seek treatment right away so that the disorder can be managed and long-term complications avoided. Treatment may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and support groups. With proper treatment and management, people with substance use disorder and co-occurring bipolar disorder can lead healthy and productive lives.
What Happens in a Bipolar Disorder Therapy Program?
Bipolar disorder therapy programs typically involve a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Medication management helps to stabilize moods and prevent future episodes of depression or mania. This includes selecting the right medications for each individual, monitoring side effects, and adjusting dosages as needed. Psychotherapy can help people with bipolar disorder better understand their condition, identify triggers that lead to episodes of depression or mania, learn new coping strategies, build strong social supports, manage relationships effectively, and develop healthier ways of thinking about themselves and their lives. Lifestyle changes may include getting regular exercise; eating a balanced diet; setting healthy boundaries; avoiding alcohol and drugs; adhering to a consistent sleep schedule; limiting stressors through relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation; and finding meaningful activities to engage in. All of these components work together to help people with bipolar disorder better manage their symptoms, reduce episodes of depression or mania, and live fulfilling lives.
In addition to therapy sessions, many programs also offer educational classes or workshops that provide information about bipolar disorder and its treatment. These can be beneficial for both the person with bipolar disorder and his or her support system. They help equip everyone involved in the treatment process with the knowledge that will enable them to cope more effectively with this complex condition. It is important to remember that each person’s experience of bipolar disorder is unique, so it is necessary to tailor any therapy program accordingly. By investing time and energy into understanding one’s illness, finding the right treatment plan, and building a support system of family and friends, people with bipolar disorder can live healthy and happy lives.
The Benefits of Getting Professional Help for SUD and Bipolar Disorder
When it comes to treating substance use disorder and co-occurring bipolar disorder, getting help is essential. With proper treatment, you can enjoy a wide range of benefits. Here are some of the advantages of seeking out help for your bipolar disorder:
- Improved quality of life – Treatment helps reduce symptoms and manage episodes so that you can feel more in control and have more freedom to pursue activities you enjoy.
- Reduced risk of suicide – Bipolar disorder carries a high risk for suicide, but treatment can reduce this risk by helping with symptom management and improving overall mental health.
- Improved functioning – Treatment for bipolar disorder can increase your ability to focus, think clearly, and make better decisions. It also gives you tools to cope with triggers that could lead to an episode.
- Strengthened relationships – By managing your bipolar disorder with the help of a professional, you can improve communication and social skills, which can lead to stronger connections with friends and family members.
- Long-term stability – Treatment for bipolar disorder is designed to keep symptoms in check over time so that you can live a more balanced life in recovery from substance use disorder.
By getting the help you need for your bipolar disorder, you can take steps toward better mental health and improved quality of life, free from SUD. With the proper support, you can start feeling the benefits of treatment.
Find Bipolar Disorder Therapy in San Francisco, CA at Foundations
Therapy for bipolar disorder is essential for anyone living with the condition, especially those with co-occurring addiction. With the help of a mental health professional, you can learn effective strategies to manage your symptoms, avoid triggers for substance use, and live a more balanced life. Therapy can help you process and make sense of your experiences, cope with stressful situations, improve communication and relationships, and develop healthier lifestyle habits. Call Foundations San Francisco at 415.854.6735 to learn how we can help. You can also reach us via our online contact form.