Recognizing the signs that you may need treatment for bipolar disorder is the first step toward managing your condition and improving your quality of life. Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings that can significantly impact your relationships, work, and daily functioning. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to seek professional help:

• Frequent Mood Swings: If you experience frequent shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior—especially between periods of feeling extremely elevated (manic or hypomanic) and deeply depressed—treatment can help regulate these fluctuations and prevent them from affecting your life.
• Impulsive or Risky Behavior: During manic or hypomanic episodes, you may engage in impulsive or risky behaviors, such as overspending, reckless driving, or making uncharacteristic decisions. These behaviors can lead to significant consequences. Treatment can help manage impulsivity and reduce the likelihood of risky actions.
• Difficulty Functioning in Daily Life: If your mood swings are affecting your ability to function at work, school, or in your relationships, it’s a sign that you could benefit from treatment. Therapy and medication can help stabilize mood, improve your functioning, and prevent further disruption to your life.
• Chronic Feelings of Depression: If you experience prolonged periods of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, it may be a sign of the depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. Treatment can help alleviate these symptoms and improve your overall outlook on life.
• Sleep Disturbances: Both manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder can disrupt sleep patterns. During manic episodes, you may feel unusually energetic and have difficulty sleeping, while during depressive episodes, you may feel excessively tired or struggle to get out of bed. Treatment can help stabilize your sleep cycle and improve overall rest.
• Thoughts of Suicide or Self-Harm: If you experience thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm during depressive episodes, it is crucial to seek immediate professional treatment. Bipolar disorder can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and treatment is necessary to address these risks and provide the support you need.
• Difficulty Maintaining Relationships: The emotional highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder can strain relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. If your mood fluctuations are causing tension or conflict in your relationships, treatment can help you manage these challenges and develop healthier ways to communicate and cope.
• Substance Use: Individuals with bipolar disorder may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the emotional intensity of their mood swings. If you’re using substances to self-medicate, it’s important to seek treatment for both the bipolar disorder and any co-occurring substance use issues.

If you identify with any of these signs, treatment for bipolar disorder can help you manage symptoms, stabilize your mood, and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. Don’t wait until your symptoms worsen—seeking help early can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of your treatment plan and your overall well-being. At Foundations Group Behavioral Health in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.