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November 2024

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Navigating Romance with Bipolar Disorder

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Navigating Romance with Bipolar Disorder Recovering from the acute phases of bipolar disorder (BPD) is like learning how to surf. You know how to stand on a board, but it’s a whole new game when on unpredictable, choppy waters. It’s one thing to ride the ups and downs of BP on your own and it’s a whole nother experience living these ups and downs with another person who has their own set of thoughts, fears, and emotions. If we extend this analogy, then we can liken dating with BPD to surfing with two people on one board! Embarking on the journey of dating can be an exhilarating yet complex endeavor for anyone. When you add the intricacies of bipolar disorder into the mix, the path can seem even more daunting. Yet, with the right guidance and a touch of self-awareness, it is entirely possible to build and maintain fulfilling relationships. In this post, we’ll delve into practical advice and insights, aiming to help you traverse the dating landscape with confidence and grace. Self-Care Comes First Prioritize Your Mental Health: Before you immerse yourself in the dating scene, ensure your mental health is on a stable footing. This involves regular therapy sessions, diligent medication management, and a robust self-care routine. Consider also seeking out the advice of your support group to see if they feel you are well enough to be in a relationship.  Know Your Triggers: Recognize and understand your triggers. Sharing these with your potential partner can pave the way for a more supportive and empathetic relationship. Communication is Key Be Open and Honest: From the outset, be transparent about your bipolar disorder. This openness not only builds trust but also minimizes potential misunderstandings. It’s scary because there is sometimes the fear of rejection, but it is better for the person to bow out of the relationship sooner rather than later when there are more attachments.  Educate Your Partner: Arm your partner with knowledge. Bipolar disorder is characterized by dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts can range from manic or hypomanic episodes to depressive lows. Gaining a solid grasp of these fluctuations is crucial for both you and your partner, fostering a deeper mutual understanding. The BPH masterclass, The Five Pillars of Bipolar Recovery, is a great resource as well as our companion book.  Setting Boundaries Define Personal Boundaries: Clearly articulate what you are comfortable with in terms of your mental health and relationship dynamics. Do you want them to be a part of your recovery journey or would you like to separate the matters. Separation may seem counter to open communication, but if you are able to gain the trust with your partner that you have others who help you manage your mental health, then that opens the possibility of not bringing you partner into your recovery journey. The choice is ultimately yours.  Respect Each Other’s Space: Acknowledge the importance of personal space and time, especially during periods of emotional turbulence or stress. Managing Expectations Take Things Slowly: Resist the urge to rush. Allowing the relationship to develop at a natural pace gives both parties time to adjust and understand each other. Consider not getting sexually involved too soon as the intense emotions can trigger mood episodes, rash decision making, and over committing.  Communicate Readiness for Hard Conversations: This requires awareness on the bipolar individual’s part to know when they are not mentally and emotionally ready to handle hard conversations. It also requires their partner to exercise patience and even identify when the person is off and not ready. For example, if one partner observes irritability in the other, then to consider stating, “Hey, is this a good time to talk about this? We can talk about this another time.” Set Realistic Expectations: Perfection is an illusion. By setting realistic expectations, you and your partner can better navigate the inevitable ups and downs of the relationship. Coping Strategies for Challenging Times Develop Coping Mechanisms: Collaborate with your therapist or mental health coach to craft effective coping strategies for mood swings. Sharing these with your partner can empower them to support you more effectively. Seek Professional Help Together: Couples therapy can be a valuable tool in improving communication and addressing challenges head-on. Supporting Each Other Mutual Support: Encourage your partner to engage in their own self-care and seek support when needed. A truly healthy relationship is built on mutual care and understanding and sometimes it’s advisable for each person to have professional support that will nurture the relationship and even heal it if things get sour.  Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t overlook the small victories. Celebrate these moments as they contribute significantly to both your relationship and your mental health journey. Conclusion While dating with bipolar disorder presents unique challenges, with the right strategies and a supportive partner, it is totally possible to foster a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Prioritize your mental health, maintain open communication, and remember that mutual understanding and patience are the bedrocks of any strong partnership.

Parenting and Family Support

Mixed Mood Episodes in Bipolar Disorder – What Are They? 

Leave a Comment / Parenting and Family Support /

Mixed Mood Episodes in Bipolar Disorder – What Are They? Disclaimer: Please talk to a licensed health professional if you suspect you are having similar symptoms described below The complexities of bipolar disorder are as nuanced as they are challenging, and few aspects of it are more perplexing than mixed mood episodes. These unique and intense states bring symptoms of both mania and depression simultaneously, creating an emotional paradox that can make life feel like a series of contradictions. One moment may be marked by an elevated mood paired with deep sadness, and in the next, high energy mixes with hopelessness. In this post, we explore the intricacies of mixed mood episodes—also called bipolar disorder with mixed features—including their symptoms, risk factors, and approaches to treatment. What Is a Mixed Mood Episode? Mixed mood episodes, also previously called “mixed states” or “mixed episodes,” are now referred to as “bipolar disorder with mixed features” in the DSM-5, the diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals. This update in terminology reflects a more refined understanding of bipolar disorder’s spectrum, recognizing that these episodes can occur in both bipolar I and bipolar II disorders. A mixed episode happens when someone experiences symptoms of both mania (or hypomania) and depression either at the same time or in rapid succession, with little or no recovery period in between. Mixed mood episodes can manifest as an intense internal conflict, where high energy coexists with sadness, or even lead to manic actions laced with depressive thoughts. These episodes are estimated to affect roughly 20-40% of people with bipolar disorder, highlighting their significant prevalence and the importance of addressing them with care. Symptoms of Mixed Mood Episodes Mixed mood episodes can vary widely in their presentation, often blending mania’s energizing elements with the despair and lethargy of depression. Common symptoms include: An unusual combination of elevated and low moods Engaging in pleasurable activities while feeling depressed Experiencing rapid, pressured speech alongside a low mood Having an elevated mood with intrusive, depressive thoughts or even suicidal ideation Poor sleep, often characterized by severe insomnia Significant changes in appetite, which can swing between loss and excess Irritability, agitation, and restlessness Feeling energized yet hopeless Racing thoughts mixed with sadness or grief These symptoms can create a volatile state, making it difficult for individuals to function in daily life. The erratic combination of mood and energy can lead to heightened risk-taking, extreme emotional swings, and significant distress. Diagnostic Criteria The DSM-5 has specific criteria for diagnosing mixed features in bipolar disorder. According to these guidelines, an individual must show: Three or more manic or hypomanic symptoms during a major depressive episode, or Three or more depressive symptoms during a manic or hypomanic episode. These criteria help mental health professionals identify mixed mood episodes more accurately. Diagnosing mixed features is complex, and the coexistence of such opposing moods can make it harder to discern the underlying bipolar disorder type, whether it’s bipolar I or bipolar II. Cyclothymic Disorder vs. Mixed Mood Episodes In our research, we found many similarities between cyclothymic disorder and mixed mood episodes and find it difficult for even health professionals to make the subtle call when deciding on the right diagnosis. Nonetheless, it is the sole prerogative of a physician to make the call. Here are some general characteristics to know the subtle differences:  Cyclothymic Disorder A distinct mood disorder characterized by chronic, fluctuating mood disturbances Involves periods of hypomanic symptoms alternating with periods of depressive symptoms that do not meet full criteria for major depressive episodes Symptoms must be present for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents) Considered milder than bipolar I or II disorder, but can cause significant impairment May be a precursor to developing bipolar disorder in some cases Mixed Mood States in Bipolar Disorder A specific presentation within bipolar disorder (40%), not a separate diagnosis Involves simultaneous symptoms of both mania/hypomania and depression during a single mood episode Can occur in bipolar I, bipolar II, or major depressive disorder Again, characterized by rapid shifts between manic and depressive symptoms or the presence of symptoms from both poles at the same time Often associated with more severe symptoms and greater functional impairment compared to “pure” manic or depressive episodes While both conditions involve fluctuations in mood, cyclothymic disorder is a distinct, long-term pattern of mild mood swings, whereas mixed mood states represent a specific type of episode that can occur within the context of bipolar disorder or major depression. The symptoms in cyclothymic disorder are generally less severe than those seen in mixed episodes of bipolar disorder.  Conclusion Mixed mood episodes add a layer of complexity to bipolar disorder, blending high and low moods into a state that can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. These episodes remind us of the diversity of experiences within bipolar disorder and underscore the importance of personalized care and support like the one offered at BP Harmony. While the journey of managing mixed mood episodes is challenging, a combination of targeted treatments, understanding support, and self-awareness can help individuals navigate these episodes and regain stability.The path forward includes recognizing the signs, seeking specialized care, and building a support system that understands the unique needs of those affected by bipolar disorder with mixed features.

Scientific Perspectives

Can Moon Cycles Affect Bipolar Disorder?

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Can Moon Cycles Affect Bipolar Disorder? For centuries, people have marveled at the moon’s mystique, wondering about its pull on human emotions. The word “lunacy” is rooted in the Latin luna, meaning “moon,” capturing ancient beliefs about lunar influence on mental health. But is there more than myth here? Modern science is now investigating how moon phases may affect mood, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder.  The belief that the full moon can excite and disturb human behavior is deeply rooted in culture, language and anecdotal lore, but it tends to be regarded as a myth by the scientific community because it is not supported by epidemiological research. The findings are complex and intriguing, revealing subtle rhythms in nature that might interact with the mind; however, modern science largely holds an ambivalent stance.   The basic premise of most lore around the moon’s interaction with human behavior goes as follows: Just like the lunar cycle affects the tides of the ocean, so too does it affect the human body, which is composed of around 60% water.  The Lunar-Bipolar Connection: The Latest Research Recent longitudinal observations show that manic-depressive cycles can become synchronized with lunar cycles, but do so in complex ways that are unlikely to have been detected by past studies.  Among the most compelling research on this topic is Dr. Thomas Wehr’s 2018 study, which delves into the lives of 17 patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder. Wehr’s findings are striking: for some patients, mood cycles appeared to sync with three specific lunar rhythms: The 14.8-day spring-neap cycle The 13.7-day declination cycle The 206-day cycle of perigee-syzygies, known as “supermoons” Some patients experienced mood shifts on every second or third lunar cycle, aligning with the moon’s gravitational pulse on Earth’s tides. This suggests an ebb and flow in the body that might mirror the celestial rhythms we so often overlook. Possible Mechanisms: How the Moon Could Influence Mood The precise mechanisms remain elusive, but researchers have theorized several ways lunar cycles could affect mood in bipolar disorder: Gravitational Pull: The moon’s gravitational force moves oceans, and some scientists speculate it may exert a subtler force on human physiology. Although this theory is unproven, it hints at gravitational shifts subtly affecting the body’s internal rhythms Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Circadian rhythms are the body’s natural timekeepers, regulating sleep, mood, and physical energy. The moon, especially its light during the full moon, might influence this biological clock, which could disrupt sleep and lead to mood shifts in those with bipolar disorder. Individuals with bipolar disorder are highly sensitive to sleep changes, making them potentially more susceptible to disruptions triggered by lunar phases. At BP Harmony, we have observed clients, who are not already biased towards astrological beliefs, express difficulty falling asleep on certain days of the month where the moon is full.  Moonlight and Sleep Patterns: During full moons, increased light may affect sleep quality for some, potentially leading to mood instability. This could indirectly influence bipolar symptoms, as restful sleep is essential for emotional regulation. When sleep falters, especially for those with bipolar disorder, mood disturbances often follow Clinical Implications and Future Directions for Researchers While the evidence of a moon-bipolar connection remains inconclusive, this area of study could hold valuable insights for understanding mood disorders in general because it shows up among BP Harmony clients frequently. We are interested in finding more research with the following considerations: Personalized Monitoring: Given the potential variability, clinicians could consider tracking individual patients for signs of lunar influence on mood and sleep. If patients experience predictable mood patterns in sync with the lunar calendar, this information could guide more tailored treatment. Focus on Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Rapid cycling bipolar disorder, marked by frequent mood shifts within short timeframes, shows the strongest potential for lunar cycle effects. We find these clients are the most sensitive to other environmental changes like temperature, pressure, air quality, pollen, sunlight and even things like smell, sound, and touch. Researching this subset of bipolar disorder may help clarify whether lunar rhythms significantly affect individuals prone to rapid mood changes. Longitudinal Studies: Long-term studies tracking mood and sleep across an entire lunar cycle could provide a more accurate picture of any connection between lunar phases and mood. Such research might reveal hidden patterns over time and highlight which, if any, lunar phases correlate with mood shifts. We are curious to learn if correlation means causation. Biological Pathways: Exploring how lunar cycles might influence melatonin production or other circadian markers could clarify how environmental factors affect mood in bipolar disorder. This research could also identify new avenues for managing the disorder, especially for individuals sensitive to environmental rhythms. Conclusion: Scientifically Unproven, Culturally Significant The idea that lunar cycles might influence bipolar disorder is both captivating and elusive. While some studies find correlations between mood changes and lunar phases, the overall evidence remains inconclusive. This connection appears to be complex, likely affecting only a subset of individuals, particularly those with rapid cycling bipolar disorder. Until more research emerges, it’s best to approach this topic with scientific caution and curiosity. For patients and clinicians alike, the focus should remain on proven strategies for managing bipolar disorder—such as medication, therapies like the BP Harmony Five Pillars, and maintaining stable sleep routines. Still, as science continues to explore how the natural world shapes our inner lives, there’s hope that understanding the rhythms around us could lead to more personalized mental health care. There is, however, no denying the immense influence culture plays in shaping individuals’ beliefs about the moon’s parallel interaction with health; we have noticed this tendency particularly among our female clients. At BP Harmony, we work with clients’ assumed cognitive frames by stating that there is no denying their “experience” with the moon, often running with the assumption of a powerful placebo effect. Regardless of either vantage, there is no doubt that the moon can play a big role in affecting individuals with bipolar disorder if that belief is rooted in their mind already.

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