Bipolar disorder affects how people experience and regulate mood. Shifts between high-energy periods (mania or hypomania) and low-energy periods (depression) can make it difficult to maintain relationships, work, and routines. At Hickory Grove Recovery, treatment focuses on helping each person understand their symptoms, find stability, and build habits that support long-term well-being.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mood condition that changes energy, motivation, and emotional balance. These changes are stronger than everyday fluctuations. Some people experience intense highs, others struggle with prolonged sadness or irritability, and many alternate between the two.
Types of bipolar disorder
- Bipolar I disorder: At least one manic episode that may alternate with depression.
- Bipolar II disorder: Periods of hypomania (a less intense high) and depression.
- Cyclothymic disorder: Ongoing shifts in mood that are less extreme but more persistent.
Mania may look like sleepless nights, racing ideas, or risky behavior. Depression may bring exhaustion, hopelessness, or loss of interest in daily life. Our clinicians work with clients to notice these mood changes early and respond with care strategies that fit their needs.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms differ by person. Some clients describe bursts of energy and focus followed by fatigue and irritability. Others may feel anxious or impulsive during mania, then isolated during depression.
Manic or hypomanic episodes
- Elevated or irritable mood
- Increased energy and fast speech
- Reduced need for sleep
- Impulsive or risky behavior
- Difficulty concentrating or sitting still
Depressive episodes
- Ongoing sadness or emptiness
- Fatigue and lack of motivation
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Difficulty thinking clearly
One person might take on several projects in a week, only to feel unable to leave bed soon after. Another may act recklessly during a manic period, then feel shame and confusion when it passes. Treatment focuses on identifying these shifts and managing them in real time.
Causes and risk factors
Bipolar disorder develops from a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and life stress. Common influences include:
- Family history of mood disorders
- Irregularities in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine
- Past trauma or long-term stress
- Substance use or sleep disruptions
The condition can affect anyone, regardless of background. Effective care begins with an accurate understanding of symptoms and steady follow-up.
Diagnosis and evaluation
Assessment begins with a detailed clinical evaluation. At Hickory Grove Recovery, psychiatrists and therapists work together to review medical history, symptom patterns, and daily functioning. The process includes diagnostic interviews, mood tracking, and input from family when appropriate.
A client who reports frequent mood swings might also have anxiety or substance use challenges. Understanding how these factors interact allows the care team to design a plan that meets the client where they are.
Treatment and management
Treatment helps clients regain balance and learn tools to navigate both manic and depressive episodes. Hickory Grove Recovery combines medication, therapy, and holistic care for lasting stability.
Medication management
Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants may be prescribed depending on each client’s needs. Providers monitor progress and make careful adjustments over time. A client might find that a specific medication helps with energy regulation but causes restlessness, leading to small dosage changes until stability is achieved.
Therapy and behavioral support
Therapy gives clients the structure to manage stress and track their emotional patterns. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on reframing negative thoughts, while dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches mindfulness and distress tolerance. In one session, a client may review journal notes to find early signs of an episode and discuss coping steps with their therapist.
Holistic care and daily routines
Balanced sleep, nutrition, and physical activity reduce mood swings and improve focus. Clients often work on building structured routines that fit their natural energy cycles. Group sessions create space for sharing experiences and learning from peers.
Therapists at Hickory Grove Recovery help clients practice these skills in real-life situations, reinforcing confidence and stability over time.
Co-occurring conditions
Bipolar disorder often overlaps with anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. These overlaps are called co-occurring disorders. Treating these conditions together improves outcomes and prevents setbacks. A client recovering from addiction, for example, might combine medication-assisted treatment with therapy focused on emotion regulation.
Family education and support
Families play a central role in ongoing care. Counselors meet with relatives to explain bipolar symptoms, set boundaries, and develop healthy communication. During family sessions, participants might practice ways to respond calmly during emotional episodes or to encourage self-care instead of confrontation.
Long-term wellness
Sustained progress comes from awareness, consistency, and support. Clients and clinicians build relapse prevention plans that identify warning signs and outline action steps. These may include reaching out to a counselor, adjusting medication, or increasing therapy sessions.
Someone who starts to notice rising energy or reduced sleep might use relaxation tools or call their therapist before symptoms intensify. Over time, these proactive habits create a greater sense of control and stability.
Measuring success
Improvement often appears gradually. Clients describe feeling more steady, connected, and confident in managing daily life. Stability shows up as consistent sleep, balanced routines, and the ability to handle stress without extreme mood shifts.
FAQs
Early indicators can include alternating periods of high energy and deep fatigue, impulsive choices, and noticeable changes in sleep or mood. Evaluation by a mental health professional is recommended if these patterns disrupt daily functioning.
A qualified clinician uses clinical interviews, standardized assessments, and behavioral observations to confirm ADHD and rule out other causes. Hickory Grove Recovery’s team follows current DSM-5 guidelines.
Some clients find therapy and lifestyle changes reduce symptoms, but medication is often needed to maintain balance. Treatment plans are adjusted to fit each person’s needs.
The condition develops through a mix of genetics, brain chemistry, and stress. It is not caused by personality or personal weakness.
Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition. Ongoing therapy, medical support, and consistent self-care are key to maintaining progress.
Yes. The program addresses bipolar disorder alongside anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders through coordinated, team-based care.
Begin treatment today
With structured support, people living with bipolar disorder can find balance and stability. The team at Hickory Grove Recovery provides therapy, medication management, and long-term guidance tailored to each client’s life.
Call us today at 501.509.5143 or reach out online to learn more about bipolar disorder treatment and begin a path toward steadier living.
