Over 1 million adults in Arizona reported having a mental health condition within the last year. Mental health conditions still carry a lot of stigma and misunderstanding, while having a high potential to disrupt daily life.
Our goal at Wolf Creek Recovery is to help our community learn more about mental health and get access to the care they need and deserve. Bipolar disorder impacts over 40 million people worldwide. We offer support and healing to them and more. Read on to learn more about our treatment approach.
What We Treat: Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that impacts people of all ages and genders. It consists of manic symptoms, which are extreme highs, and depressive symptoms, which are extreme lows. The exact intensity and how frequently you experience these symptoms determine what specific kind of bipolar disorder you have.
At Wolf Creek Recovery, we understand how severely this condition can impact people’s day-to-day lives. Whether in a manic episode or a depressive episode, many people face disruptions in their finances, relationships, self-care, and more.
Understanding the Different Kinds of Bipolar Disorder
There are four primary types of bipolar disorder.
- Bipolar I – Those with bipolar I primarily experience manic episodes. These episodes last 7 days or more at a time and can be intense enough to hospitalize someone. They may also experience depressive episodes.
- Bipolar II – Those with bipolar II primarily experience depressive episodes, which can lead to hospitalization. They also may experience hypomanic symptoms or episodes, which are less intense than manic episodes.
- Cyclothymic disorder – People with cyclothymic disorder, commonly called cyclothymia, experience both depressive symptoms and hypomanic symptoms that aren’t intense enough to be classified as episodes.
- Unspecified bipolar disorder – For those who showcase symptoms of bipolar disorder, but don’t meet the criteria of the other three types, this is known as unspecified bipolar disorder.
Thankfully, no matter the kind of bipolar disorder you’re living with, treatment is available. We’ll help you find stability, and build a life free from bipolar disorder’s exhausting highs and lows.
How We Treat: Dual Diagnosis and Wolf Creek Recovery’s Approach to Healing
Did you know that nearly 47% of people who have bipolar disorder will also have a substance use disorder within their lifetime? The rates are higher for those with bipolar I in particular, with nearly 60% lifetime prevalence, but can occur with any type of bipolar disorder.
Our team at Wolf Creek Recovery recognizes how often those with bipolar disorder are also experiencing other conditions, from substance use disorders to trauma and more. This is why our approach to treatment focuses on the whole person, tailoring your treatment plan to address all of your concerns instead of just one. We set you up for long-term success in your recovery through extended care options with a holistic foundation.
Recognizing the Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
As we mentioned earlier, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can be broken down into two categories: manic and depressive. Not everyone will experience every symptom, and they can also vary in intensity and impact for each person. So you can better recognize these symptoms, let’s lay them out for you.
Manic symptoms:
- Feeling “high” or elevated, which includes positive emotions and also increased irritability
- Feeling like you have more energy than normal
- Feeling a decreased need for sleep
- Having racing thoughts and quickened speech
- Having an increased drive to experience pleasurable things like food, alcohol, sex, and more
- Having an elevated sense of power or importance
- Making impulsive decisions
Depressive symptoms:
- Increased feelings of anxiety and sadness
- Feeling lower than usual
- Having a change in sleep routines
- Feeling disconnected from the world around you
- Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Having a lack of motivation, even for things you enjoy
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
- Increased chance of self-harm or suicidal ideation
Both categories also come with the potential for decreased self-care, whether you feel like you have more important things to do because of mania, or you feel like you can barely get out of bed because of depression.
These symptoms don’t last forever, either. When episodes occur, symptoms persist for most of the day and last several days in a row. There is no specific amount of downtime that may occur between episodes.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
At Wolf Creek Recovery, the diagnosis process involves a physical examination that rules out other possibilities, first. Our medical professionals will also ask about your personal history, as well as your family’s mental health history.
Once physical exams are cleared, bipolar disorder may be diagnosed as long as the person has experienced manic or depressive episodes or other symptom combinations that meet the criteria defined by the DSM-V.
Some people with bipolar disorder may be diagnosed with other conditions first. These initial diagnoses may not always be accurate. For example, it’s not uncommon for those who have bipolar II to be potentially diagnosed with a form of depression prior to a bipolar diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder in Arizona at Wolf Creek Recovery
No matter your history of bipolar disorder or substance use, our team at Wolf Creek Recovery is here to help. We have a variety of outpatient options available, including supportive housing, so you can find the right fit for your needs. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have, so feel free to contact us anytime to learn more.
Our dedicated team is ready to meet you where you are, providing a treatment plan that’s dedicated to integrity and honesty, which everyone deserves. Build a life you love with Wolf Creek Recovery today by giving us a call at 833-732-8202.
