What Bipolar Disorder can look like

Extreme shifts in mood where the individual may experience manic, depressive or “mixed” episodes. These episodes typically last for a week or two but at times longer. There are notable changes in the individuals energy levels, activity levels, and behaviors.

Manic Symptoms

  • Feeling “up” or “wired”

  • Functioning with little to no sleep

  • Increased goal directed behavior

  • Rapid speech and thoughts

  • Pressured speech

  • Increased activity and impulsivity (e.g. impulsive spending, risky sexual behaviors)

  • Feeling highly confident or important

  • Anger, irritability, agitation

  • Euphoric mood

  • Poor concentration

Depressive Symptoms

  • Feeling “down” or “slow”

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness most of the day

  • Loss of pleasure in things you normally enjoy

  • Sleep changes- sleeping too much or not enough

  • Appetite or weight changes

  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

  • Decreased energy or fatigue

  • Irritability

How Therapy Can Help

Understanding Patterns

Explore your specific patterns, triggers, and early warning signs to increase self-awareness

Self Esteem and Relationship Support

Address underlying stressors and past wounds to build healthier and more secure relationships with yourself and others

Emotional Regulation

Learn healthy coping mechanisms, habits and lifestyle adjustments (e.g. routine, sleep hygiene) to stabilize mood

Relapse Prevention

Establish a consistent, supportive space to track your mood and maintain necessary routines to minimize the frequency and severity of future episodes