Bipolar Treatment Programs at CooperRiis

Bipolar I includes full manic episodes that may require hospitalization. Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes, which are typically less extreme. Both types include depressive episodes. Type I and type II are each serious in their own ways, and both are very treatable.

Yes. Bipolar disorder is classified as a mood disorder, meaning it primarily affects emotional regulation. It causes cycles of elevated and depressed mood.

Neurodivergent is a nonmedical term, and its definition has evolved to include bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, along with personality disorders and other mental health conditions. This is likely because it is now well understood and accepted that these conditions occur due to neurobiological differences. The conditions that the word initially served to describe, like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, are now sometimes differentiated as “cognitively neurodivergent.”

Traits may include intense mood swings, impulsivity, changes in sleep and energy, racing thoughts, and periods of withdrawal or high activity. These traits vary from person to person and often show up in cycles.

Diagnosis involves a clinical interview with a mental health professional. They’ll look for patterns of manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes over time, often using criteria from the DSM-5 and input from people close to the individual. Bipolar is often misdiagnosed at first as major depressive disorder or another condition. In this case, medication response is diagnostic.

Yes, there’s a strong genetic component. Having a first-degree relative with bipolar disorder increases the risk, though environment and life experiences also play a role.

It can. Like many genetic conditions, bipolar disorder doesn’t always follow a predictable pattern. It may appear in one generation, skip the next, and reemerge later.

It depends on the phase. In manic or hypomanic states, thinking may be fast, expansive, full of ideas, impulsive, or even angry. During depression, it may feel slowed down, critical, or resentful. Outside of episodes, thinking is often clear and stable. Emotional permanence is a common bipolar thinking pattern in both mania and depression. This is an over-identification with the current circumstances or emotional state: “It’s always been this way,” or, “It will always be this way.” Treatment can significantly temper emotional permanence with perspective.

It can, especially without treatment. However, many people see fewer or less intense episodes over time with good care, structure, and support.

Not typically, but it can include psychotic features, especially during manic or severe depressive episodes. These might involve hallucinations or delusional thinking.

It can cause strain through mood changes, communication challenges, or shifts in behavior. But with support, insight, and tools, many people with bipolar disorder maintain strong, healthy relationships. Self-acceptance contributes profoundly to how well others accept and understand us.