Bipolar Disorder Treatment Specialist in Vero Beach, FL

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can cause distressing symptoms. While what works for one person may not work for another, some of the most commonly used coping skills by people with bipolar disorder include:

• Sticking to a routine – Consistency can help you alleviate certain symptoms of bipolar disorder and equip you to deal with challenges with more ease. By creating a structured routine that you enjoy and that helps you stay productive, you can effectively cope with bipolar disorder.
• Getting consistent sleep – It’s highly important to get enough sleep consistently to prevent mania episodes. There is a link between sleep deprivation and an elevated risk of hypomania and mania.
• Exercising regularly – Exercise is an essential part of routine building and maintaining your general wellness. Studies have found that exercise is especially important when going through the depressive phase of bipolar.
• Strong support system – Navigating bipolar disorder can be challenging, so having a support system is strongly recommended. Whether you can rely on your friends or family or choose to join a support group or faith community, seeking support is one of the best coping strategies for those with bipolar.
• Seeing a specialist regularly – A psychiatrist can teach you how to successfully implement these coping skills to lead a fulfilling life despite your diagnosis. If you want a partner in managing your mental health condition, the providers at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches can help!

Bipolar disorder can develop at any age and affect people of all backgrounds, although it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 19 and rarely develops after the age of 40. Though it is less common, this condition can be observed in younger children as well. This condition is referred to as early-onset bipolar disorder.

Adolescents are the largest age group diagnosed with bipolar. In the late teenage years and early twenties, symptoms of bipolar disorder, such as mania and depressive episodes, tend to emerge. While less common, late-onset bipolar also occurs and can arise as a result of underdiagnosis in the past or due to experiencing severe emotional trauma or other mental health concerns.

Bipolar is a complex disorder that causes cycles of mania or hypomania along with major depressive episodes. Some of the key characteristics of manic or hypomanic episodes include:

• Increased energy and agitation.
• Unusual talkativeness.
• Racing thoughts.
• Poor or risky decision-making.
• Decreased desire to sleep.
• Exaggerated sense of self-confidence (euphoria).

On the other hand, the symptoms of major depressive episodes include:

• Difficulty performing day-to-day activities.
• Low mood, such as feeling empty, sad, or hopeless.
• Loss of interest in most activities.
• Weight loss.
• Insomnia or oversleeping.
• Low energy and fatigue.
• Decreased ability to concentrate.
• Thoughts of or attempts at self-harm.

In addition to these signs, there are various other features of bipolar disorder, including melancholy, psychosis, relationship strain, and anxious distress.

In many cases, bipolar disorder is linked to genetics, as it tends to occur in families. However, a mix of physical, environmental, and social factors are often at play. Chemical imbalances in the brain can be responsible for the onset of the condition. If there is an imbalance in the levels of serotonin, dopamine, or noradrenaline, a person may begin to experience symptoms of bipolar.

A stressful or traumatic event can also trigger bipolar disorder symptoms. If a breakdown of a relationship, abuse, or death occurs, bipolar symptoms are commonly triggered. However, these types of life-altering circumstances can cause depression in people with no previous mental health concerns. Bipolar disorder can also be triggered by overwhelming challenges, sleep disturbances, or physical illness.

If you experience symptoms of bipolar disorder, it’s urged that you see a psychiatrist as soon as possible. The experts at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches can help you manage your condition and avoid complications that can arise due to untreated bipolar disorder. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.