Like other mental health conditions, bipolar disorder can make daily life difficult. This can lead to self-medicating with drugs or alcohol to cope with symptoms. Approximately 60% of individuals with bipolar disorder have a history of substance abuse. Individuals with bipolar I disorder are nearly six times more likely to develop a substance use disorder than the general population. Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol can also worsen bipolar symptoms and create even more negative consequences within a person’s life.
The best option for treating bipolar disorder and drug or alcohol addiction is through a recovery program that takes a dual diagnosis approach. Both conditions must be treated at the same time, with strategies that can alleviate stress and/or symptoms of the bipolar disorder without relying on addictive substances for relief.
Formerly called “manic depression,” bipolar disorder is a mental health condition where people are likely to experience mood changes that range from manic highs to depressive lows.
Bipolar disorders, including Bipolar I and Bipolar II, are mental health conditions characterized by significant mood swings. Cyclothymia disorder, a milder form of bipolar disorder, features these same cycles of emotions taking place with lower intensity or length. Bipolar disorder requires a professional diagnostic assessment to fully determine what type of bipolar disorder the person is experiencing.
Most people with bipolar disorder are diagnosed in their late teens or early adulthood. The drastic shifts in demeanor can cycle quickly or slowly, depending on the person. Substance use disorder may complicate the diagnosis process, as it may be unclear what is due to bipolar disorder and what is attributable to drug abuse (or withdrawal symptoms).
There are several types of bipolar disorder, each defined by its unique pattern of mood swings. These include:
Regardless of the type, it is important to note that bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, different forms of therapy (depending on the individual), and lifestyle changes.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary from person to person, and may include the following:
Bipolar disorder frequently co-occurs with substance use disorders (SUD). If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional at an addiction treatment program.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Genetics plays a significant role, as people with a family history of bipolar disorder are at a higher risk.
Substance use itself is a significant risk factor for increased intensity of bipolar symptoms. Many people with bipolar disorder turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate their symptoms, which can lead to addiction and exacerbate mental health conditions. Traumatic experiences, such as abuse, can increase the likelihood of developing co-occurring disorders like bipolar disorder. Environmental factors (such as stressful life events) may also contribute to the onset. A history of other mental health conditions (such as depression) may indicate that someone may be suffering from bipolar disorder. It can also make them more susceptible to developing substance abuse.
Recognizing risk factors can help in creating a more targeted and effective treatment approach. But it’s important to note that bipolar disorder can affect people across all ethnic groups, and the rates of diagnosis for bipolar disorder are fairly equal between men and women. Social and economic class, religion, or location do not make someone immune to receiving a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s well-being. Both bipolar disorder and substance use can cause physical and chemical changes in the brain, particularly in areas related to mood regulation. The condition can affect a person’s mood, energy levels, and ability to function in daily life. When bipolar disorder and addiction occur together, the person may experience a higher risk of more severe manic episodes and increased risks of violence and suicide.
People with bipolar disorder may experience:
Bipolar disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of mania, hypomania, or depression. These mood swings can be intense and unpredictable, making it challenging to manage daily life.
Bipolar disorder can affect a person’s cognitive function on a basic level. It may affect attention, memory, and decision-making.
Someone with bipolar disorder may struggle with emotional regulation, leading to intense emotional experiences that can affect their actions. Before their diagnosis, they may confuse a manic or depressive episode with true emotions and feel a sense of helplessness.
Bipolar disorder can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia, sleep deprivation, or irregular sleep schedules. This can impact overall emotional regulation.
Bipolar disorder and its effects on a person’s actions can affect a person’s relationships with family and friends, leading to social isolation and feelings of loneliness. People with bipolar disorder have a suicide risk over ten times as high as the general population.
It is essential to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder. With proper treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and improve mental health and well-being.
Like many other mental health disorders, bipolar disorder has the potential to affect a person’s quality of life. This may lead them to attempt to cope through the use of drugs or alcohol. Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder may have a higher inclination toward alcohol abuse due to its availability and social acceptance as a comforting and mood-altering tool.
These substances may provide a degree of relief from symptoms of bipolar disorder, but this temporary relief is offset by a significant potential of developing an addiction. Substance abuse also has the potential to worsen symptoms of bipolar disorder over time. Depending on the addictive substance, consistent use may lead to greater anxiety and increased severity of mood swings. The individual may feel a loss of control when using the substance, which can cause distress and a feeling of hopelessness.
Addiction can complicate personal relationships, leading to a weaker support system and alienation from support. This emphasizes the importance of dual diagnosis treatment that takes mental health conditions into account when developing treatment plans for addiction.
Dual diagnosis treatment is a specialized form of care that recognizes and addresses the complex interactions between mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders. By simultaneously targeting both conditions, dual diagnosis treatment aims to provide individuals with comprehensive and effective care that leads to long-term recovery.
When embarking on dual diagnosis treatment, individuals undergo a thorough assessment process to identify the specific needs and challenges they face. This assessment helps healthcare providers develop personalized treatment plans that cater to the unique circumstances of each individual. Through a combination of medication, therapy, and support services, dual diagnosis treatment offers a holistic approach to addressing the interconnected issues of mental health and substance abuse.
One of the key components of bipolar dual diagnosis treatment is therapy, which plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand and manage their conditions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, is commonly used to help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can also be useful for emotional regulation in individuals with bipolar disorder and addiction. While there are many different treatment modalities available in dual diagnosis treatment, the exact combination of therapies and other interventions will depend on individual needs.
Aftercare and ongoing support are crucial for long-term success in recovering from co-occurring bipolar disorder and substance abuse. Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as incorporating regular exercise and a balanced diet, can support overall health and well-being. Family support is another critical element. With the right aftercare and support, individuals with bipolar disorder and addiction can achieve and maintain a stable and fulfilling life.
Here at First Steps Recovery, we’re prepared to help individuals address both their substance abuse issues as well as co-occurring mental health conditions like bipolar disorder. We’ll support you from detox all the way through your treatment, and our trained staff assists individuals in developing the proper tools and coping skills to help ensure relapse is not a part of their future.
Bipolar disorder and addiction don’t have to determine the course of your life. Contact First Steps Recovery today to find out more.
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