Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster—and it affects more than just moods. To help you better understand what this experience is really like, let’s break down what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder, one real-life situation at a time. Remember that if you or your loved one has bipolar and is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can contact us at Miramont Behavioral Health anytime, 24/7, for support.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, referred to as manic depression in the past, causes extreme mood swings that look like emotional, euphoric highs and stark lows that can mimic deep depression. These swings can occur annually or several times a year and often severely disrupt:
- Sleep and nutrition
- Energy levels
- Behavior and personality traits
- Judgment and decision making
- Relationships
- Work life and daily logistics
The unpredictability that diagnosed individuals and their loved ones can experience might be debilitating at worst and challenging at best. If you or someone you’re close to has recently received the diagnosis, you may feel like life will always be too unpredictable to enjoy. However, with the right services, medication, and available treatment options in Wisconsin, your experience of bipolar disorder could be different and even rewarding.
The support system you can build with our Waukesha-based outpatient treatment can give you the tools to manage bipolar disorder. In the meantime, straightforward answers to common questions may give your family hope, especially during intense mood swings.
Real Life Examples of Living With Bipolar Disorder
Scenario: “I am unstoppable! I don’t need sleep, and I’ve been tackling projects with dazzling speed and efficiency. I’m ready for more! Why are my friends insisting that something is wrong?”
Q: Could this be a manic episode?
Yes, it could be, especially if you see your speech is rapid and you notice your thoughts racing. Manic episodes in bipolar disorder can make you feel exceptionally energetic, confident, or even immortal. You may not feel sleepy for days on end, and you might be able to successfully execute considerably more tasks than usual. You also might experience explosions of creativity and innovation.
The chances that you’re having a manic episode might increase if you see common bipolar symptoms like irritability or impulsivity. For example, if you’re spending huge amounts of money, making uncharacteristic decisions, or snapping at people who don’t deserve it, you may need to check in with a mental health professional right away.
Scenario: “I literally do not have the will or physical ability to lift myself out of bed. Basic tasks like bathing, using the bathroom, or eating feel impossible. Am I broken?”
Q: Is this a depressive episode?
If you’re thinking the thoughts above, you may be experiencing the extreme emotional low characteristic of bipolar disorder. These depressive episodes can make it impossible to move, think, speak, or understand why life is worth living. You might oversleep or lie awake for days. You may have no ability to concentrate or even feel suicidal. This is not laziness or a moral failure. You’re suffering from a serious mental illness, and you should seek help immediately.
Scenario: “I’ve been feeling down for weeks, but not completely defeated. Today I woke up with more energy, and I can act okay. Does this mean I’m better?”
Q: Could this be hypomania?
Possibly. Hypomanic episodes are less intense than full-blown manic periods, but still involve increased energy and productivity. You might feel more upbeat and motivated than usual. However, you may need support monitoring these shifts to identify when risky behaviors might surface or when your routine might experience disruptions.
Scenario: “I just found out that my parent or sibling has bipolar disorder. Does this mean I will too?”
Q: Is bipolar disorder hereditary?
Genetics play a role in developing bipolar disorder, but your DNA doesn’t guarantee anything. If a close relative has bipolar disorder, your risk could increase, but many people with a family history may never develop the condition. Environmental factors and stress can also contribute to the appearance of symptoms.
Scenario: “I’m on medication, but still experience intense mood swings. Is my treatment not working?”
Q: Why do mood swings persist despite evidence-based treatment?
Bipolar medication can often take time to kick in and stabilize your mood, and some people may need adjustments or combinations of different treatments. While bipolar disorder currently has no cure, sometimes therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems can also make a big difference.
Quick Tips For Supporting Loved Ones with Bipolar in Wisconsin
You can do all or some of the things listed below to uplift and stand by your loved one:
- Offer emotional support and encouragement.
- Suggest inpatient care in Middleton, WI.
- Try to practice patience and don’t feel guilty about setting and enforcing boundaries.
- Learn about triggers, tools, and the different types of bipolar disorders that someone can have.
- Encourage sticking with treatment and attending appointments.
- Take time for yourself and the hobbies and activities that ground you.
Miramont Behavioral Hospital Offers Support For Bipolar Disorder
Managing bipolar disorder is an ongoing journey, and Miramont Behavioral Health Hospital is here to guide you and your friends and family. We’re also here to help you understand if your loved one needs psychiatric care. We’ll help you clarify insurance, scheduling, and transportation questions if necessary.
