At True Life Center, our bipolar disorder treatment focuses on both the mind and body, helping our patients find effective treatment and live empowered, healthy lives.

How bipolar disorder affects the brain

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes mood shifts and fluctuations in energy. It’s important to understand that subsequent behavior shifts are not character or personality flaws, but evidence of things happening on the inside:

1. Neurochemical imbalances

One of the primary effects of bipolar disorder on the brain is instability in neurotransmitters like:

• Dopamine, which is linked to motivation
• Serotonin, which influences mood and sleep
• Norepinephrine, which affects an individual’s attention and arousal levels

When these chemical changes happen abruptly, they can impair the brain’s ability to maintain emotional equilibrium and cause seemingly intense changes in a person’s mood.

2. Changes in brain structure and function

Bipolar disorder may alter a variety of important areas of the brain, including the:

• Prefrontal cortex: This area shows decreased activity during depressive episodes and increased activity during mania. This impacts impulse control and people’s ability to make decisions
• Amygdala: Part of the brain where emotions are processed, and for individuals with bipolar disorder, it can become hyperactive, leading to exaggerated emotional responses
• Hippocampus: Important for memory, this area can decrease in size due to chronic stress and the inflammation associated with bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder isn’t a behavioral issue. The emotional ups and downs are caused by very real physical changes in the brain. These structural changes explain the long-term effects of bipolar disorder, not only on someone’s mood but also their cognition, memory, and ability to regulate their behavior. However, it’s essential to understand that evidence-based treatment can have significant and positive results.

Effects of bipolar disorder on the nervous system

Bipolar disorder’s effects on the nervous system are sometimes overlooked, but when it comes to treatment, they’re equally as important to understand. Bipolar disorder can disrupt the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rhythm.

The sympathetic nervous system may become overactive for those experiencing a manic episode. That can look like:

• Elevated heart rate
• Insomnia
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Restlessness or agitation

By contrast, during a depressive episode, the parasympathetic system may take control, leading to:

• Slowed digestion
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Low energy or even physical pain

This kind of nervous system dysregulation can intensify mood swings, heighten stress responses, and make recovery feel impossible. It’s important to remember that with the right treatment, people who experience these symptoms can learn to manage their bipolar disorder symptoms and live normal, happy lives.

Self-regulation and nervous system management

Learning to self-regulate the nervous system is a powerful tool for taking control of your life. It means gaining tools that support a more balanced inner world and maintaining strong relationships with your loved ones. True Life Center is the supportive partner you need to heal your nervous system.

Tools for mitigating the long-term effects of bipolar disorder on your nervous system:

• Breathwork: A variety of intentional breathing exercises make up breathwork. Practices like box breathing activate the parasympathetic nervous system and help to calm the body and slow racing thoughts.
• Grounding exercises: Developing better tactile awareness with techniques like touching textured objects or activities that utilize your five senses helps keep you present in the moment.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: A practice that helps people learn to release physical tension and become increasingly aware of their body’s signals.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Regular mindfulness practice helps the nervous system remain flexible and increases emotional awareness.
• Biofeedback: Offered at True Life Center, this technique helps patients gain more conscious and intentional control over physiological responses to stress, like their heart and breath rate.

These practices, when done consistently, help people living with bipolar disorder build resilience and reduce the intensity and frequency of both manic and depressive episodes.

The importance of stress management for bipolar disorder

Stress is one of the most significant triggers for mood shifts. Learning to regulate the nervous system during times of high stress is imperative for bipolar management.

At True Life Center, stress management is woven into every patient’s care plan. Therapies like:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Is used to help patients reframe negative thought patterns that induce stress
• Yoga and massage therapy: Utilized to support relaxation and body awareness
• Acupuncture and meditative therapy: These provide a foundation for nervous system regulation

When stress is reduced, patients are better able to protect their brains from the long-term effects of bipolar disorder.

A whole-person approach to symptom management at True Life Center

Bipolar disorder isn’t just in the mind—but the body, too. That’s why effective bipolar treatment goes beyond symptom management to include the entire nervous system and brain.

At True Life Center in San Diego, our team integrates:

• Customized psychiatric care
• Holistic therapies
• Mind-body practices
• Compassionate one-on-one support

Our patients find access to this care in a luxury outpatient setting, created with their relaxation in mind.

Find the life you deserve today, with bipolar disorder treatment at True Life Center

Managing your bipolar disorder is possible with the right support. True Life Center is invested in your long-term recovery and ready to partner with you every step of the way.

Explore how the bipolar disorder treatment at True Life Center can support your transformation—because you deserve care that sees you as a whole being. Call 858.202.1822 today or contact us online.

The post The Effects of Bipolar Disorder on the Brain appeared first on True Life Center.

Bipolar disorder treatment at True Life Center can aid in long-term recovery. Get in touch with us today for more information by calling 858.202.1822.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood episodes can profoundly impact daily functioning and overall well-being. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can be varied, resulting in different classifications for each:

• Bipolar I disorder – Defined by manic episodes lasting at least seven days or by manic symptoms severe enough to require immediate hospital care, usually accompanied by depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II disorder – Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not full-blown manic episodes.
• Cyclothymic disorder – A milder form involving periods of hypomanic symptoms as well as periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years.

Understanding these forms is essential for recognizing the signs early and seeking appropriate bipolar disorder treatment.

Identifying the Signs of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by both manic and depressive episodes. From seemingly very happy and lifted moods to intensely down or depressed states, the signs of this disorder are varied.

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are marked by elevated mood, increased energy, and unusual behavior. Common symptoms include:

• Increased energy and activity – Feeling unusually energetic, hyperactive, or agitated.
• Euphoria or irritability – Experiencing an excessively elevated or irritable mood.
• Rapid speech and racing thoughts – Talking very quickly, jumping from one idea to another.
• Impulsivity – Engaging in risky behaviors, such as spending sprees, reckless driving, or unprotected sex.
• Decreased need for sleep – Feeling rested after only a few hours of sleep.

These seemingly sudden or erratic behaviors can lead to dangerous situations for the person struggling with symptoms and for the people they love. It’s important to seek treatment right away if you’ve noticed any of these signs of bipolar disorder.

Depressive Episodes

Conversely, depressive episodes may be characterized by very different behaviors and can significantly impair daily life:

• Persistent sadness – Feeling hopeless, tearful, or empty.
• Fatigue – Experiencing a constant lack of energy and motivation.
• Loss of interest – Losing interest in activities once enjoyed.
• Changes in appetite and weight – Eating more or less than usual, leading to weight gain or loss.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt – Having excessive self-blame or guilt.
• Difficulty concentrating – Finding it hard to focus, remember things, or make decisions.
• Thoughts of death or suicide – Contemplating or attempting suicide.

These behaviors can make the individual experiencing them feel hopeless. Feeling like nothing will ever be good again or that life isn’t worth living is extremely debilitating. It’s critical to seek effective treatment if you’re experiencing any of these bipolar disorder symptoms.

Mixed Episodes

Mixed episodes involve simultaneous symptoms of both mania and depression. These can be particularly challenging to identify and treat, as they may present symptoms like agitation, insomnia, and significant changes in appetite.

Additional Signs of Bipolar Disorder

There are some additional indicators of bipolar disorder. Symptoms may also include:

• Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Weight fluctuations – Significant changes in weight due to altered eating habits.
• Relationship strain – Trouble maintaining healthy relationships due to mood instability.

Becoming aware of these additional symptoms can help you identify whether you or a loved one is experiencing bipolar disorder and enable you to reach out for prompt professional guidance.

How Bipolar Disorder Manifests in Women

Since the signs of bipolar disorder in women may look differently than they do in men, it’s important to be aware of how they manifest so that an accurate diagnosis can be made and treatment isn’t delayed. Some of the unique challenges facing women are:

• Hormonal influences – Hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can influence mood episodes.
• Rapid cycling – Women may have more rapid cycling between highs and lows.
• Comorbid conditions – Conditions like anxiety and eating disorders are more commonly seen alongside bipolar disorder in women.

Understanding these key differences is crucial for providing effective treatment and creating a gender-specific approach for women experiencing signs of bipolar disorder.

Contact True Life Center for Bipolar Disorder Treatment

True Life Center stands out for its unique approach to mental wellness, including our neurobiological integrative care, which combines evidence-based practices and holistic therapies that consider the whole person—not just your symptoms.

Our experts are trained to provide compassionate, supportive care in a calming environment that fosters healing and personal growth. From the beginning, your treatment will be in the hands of a team of full-time doctors, psychiatrists, and psychologists who collaborate to develop effective, individualized care plans.

We are patient-centered. We are you-centered. Contact True Life Center today at 858.202.1822 to take your first step toward healing. You can also submit our online contact form, and a member of our team will be in contact.

The post Common Signs of Bipolar Disorder appeared first on True Life Center.

True Life Center’s California bipolar disorder treatment program is designed to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with this condition. Contact us at 858.202.1822 today to learn how we take treating bipolar disorder seriously. We treat each person with compassion and empathy. Everyone deserves to be happy and healthy. 

What Is Bipolar Disorder? 

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes severe mood swings. These include episodes of depression, where an individual feels low and lethargic, and mania, where they feel high and overactive. 

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is still unknown. However, researchers suggest that a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors may play a role in its development. It is also believed that substance abuse and traumatic life events can trigger bipolar disorder in individuals who are predisposed to the condition. 

Bipolar disorder often develops during late adolescence or early adulthood. Therefore, recognizing the early signs of this condition in young adults is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. 

Signs of Bipolar Disorder 

Common signs of bipolar disorder may include: 

• Periods of depressed mood – An individual may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in most activities. 
• Manic episodes – During these periods, an individual may feel euphoric, have lots of energy, have ambitious plans and ideas, and might also be easily agitated. 
• Hypomanic episodes – These are similar to manic episodes but are less severe. 
• Mixed episodes – An individual experiences symptoms of depression and mania together. 

It’s important to recognize the early signs of this condition. 

Early Signs of Bipolar Disorder in Young Adults 

Identifying bipolar disorder in young adults can be challenging, as normal adolescent behavior sometimes mimics symptoms of the condition. However, some early signs may include: 

• Severe mood swings that are different from their usual mood swings

• High levels of anxiety and restlessness

• Changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping very little or too much

• Unusually intense focus on particular subjects or activities

• Engaging in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse or reckless driving

• Changes in appetite and weight

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

It’s essential to pay attention to these signs and seek professional help if necessary, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder. 

Benefits of Bipolar Disorder Treatment 

At True Life Center in California, we offer a comprehensive bipolar disorder treatment program. Our integrative approach uses scientific and evidence-based methods to nurture the mind-body connection in our patients. 

Our center provides a calming and soothing environment to aid in your healing process. Though we are not a residential center, we strive to create a comfortable atmosphere with our luxury office and amenities such as pet therapy, art therapy, and a full gym for exercise therapy. 

Call True Life Center Today 

If you or a loved one is exhibiting early signs of bipolar disorder, do not hesitate to contact True Life Center. Our dedicated team of professionals is ready to provide the support and care necessary for recovery. Contact us today at 858.202.1822 to learn more about our bipolar disorder treatment program and how we can assist you during this challenging time. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. With the right support and treatment, managing bipolar disorder is possible. 

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