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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Manic depressive illness, now more commonly known as bipolar disorder, is a psychological condition marked by dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These changes are significantly different from the regular ups and downs that everyone goes through. Bipolar disorder can affect daily life activities such as job performance, school activities, and relationships. This article will delve into the nature of this disorder, its causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Bipolar disorder is classified as a mood disorder, typified by severe mood swings that include depressive episodes, manic episodes, and, in some cases, mixed episodes. During a depressive episode, individuals might experience feelings of extreme sadness, loss of energy, and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. In contrast, a manic episode is characterized by extreme happiness, boundless energy, and a decreased need for sleep.
It's important to note that these mood swings aren't just standard fluctuations. They are intense enough to interfere with daily activities and can last weeks or even months. Moreover, periods of normal mood may occur in between these episodes. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition but can be managed with appropriate treatment.
The exact cause of manic depressive illness remains unknown, but several factors seem to be involved in its onset. Research suggests a combination of genetics, environment, and altered brain structure and chemistry may play a role.
Family history can significantly influence the chances of developing bipolar disorder. Individuals with a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder are much more likely to get the disorder compared to individuals without such family history. Environmental factors such as trauma or stressful life events may trigger bipolar disorder in people with a genetic predisposition.
Brain structure also plays a significant role. The brains of people with bipolar disorder may differ from the brains of those who are healthy or have other mental disorders. These differences may help pinpoint the cause of the condition. Moreover, neurotransmitters, the chemicals responsible for controlling the brain's functions, are thought to play a key role in causing bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder typically develops in the late teen or early adult years, with at least half of all cases starting before age 25. Some people may experience symptoms earlier — often called early-onset bipolar disorder.
Symptoms vary widely between individuals, as do the patterns of mood episodes. Some people may experience several episodes in a year, while others may experience only a few over their lifetime. The crucial factor is that symptoms are severe enough to cause noticeable problems in day-to-day activities. These can range from poor performance at work or school to difficulty maintaining relationships and even suicide attempts.
Receiving a diagnosis for bipolar disorder involves a two-step process. Initially, a physical examination is performed to rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms. Then, a mental health professional evaluates the individual based on their symptoms, their duration, and their impact on the individual's life.
While bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, effective treatments are available that can help manage the mood swings and related symptoms. The most common treatment strategies include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes hospitalization.
Medications for bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs. These aim to stabilize mood and prevent the severe highs and lows of bipolar disorder. It's important to note that medication should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and interactions.
Psychotherapy, or talking therapies, can be highly effective when combined with medication. These therapies help individuals understand the disorder, recognize triggers, manage symptoms, and navigate through the challenges that the condition may present.
Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet can also have a significant impact on managing symptoms and preventing episodes. Moreover, it is crucial to avoid alcohol and illicit substances, as they can worsen the symptoms or interfere with the effects of the medication.
Manic depressive illness or bipolar disorder is a complex condition that requires understanding and support from both healthcare professionals and loved ones. Although it can be a challenging disorder, with the right treatment plan and lifestyle adaptations, individuals can lead healthy and productive lives.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
We infuse cognitive behavioral techniques in our group therapy sessions for depression. Get effective and affordable treatment for depression.
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