General
Is bipolar disorder functional or organic or both?
both
Increased energy and activity means what
A sudden burst of energy that leads to restlessness, overworking, or inability to sleep.
how can genetics effect bipolar disorder
Family history of mood disorders increases risk.
what medication is used when it comes to bipolar disorder
Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants prescribed to balance mood swings.
can people with bipolar disorder control themselves
yes, Bipolar episodes are medical events, not personal failures. And beyond episodes, most people function like anyone else.
what are the effects of bipolar disorder
extreme mood shifts, including episodes of mania and depression
Elevated Mood or Irritability means what
Feelings of euphoria or excessive irritability without clear reason.
how does brain Structure & Function effect bipolar disorder
Differences in brain chemistry and activity may contribute.
what types of psychotherapy are used to help bipolar disorder
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and family-focused therapy are commonly used.
are people with bipolar disorder always either manic or depressed
no, bipolar disorder includes a spectrum of experiences. It’s not simply alternating between two extremes.
what can bipolar disorder affect
energy, activity levels, judgment, and ability to carry out daily tasks
Racing Thoughts & Fast Speech means what
Talking quickly, switching topics rapidly, and struggling to focus.
how does Stress & Trauma effect bipolar disorder
High-stress environments or traumatic events can trigger episodes.
what are some ways that lifestyle management can reduce episode frequency
Regular sleep, balanced diet, and exercise
If someone is happy one moment and sad the next, are they bipolar?
no, quick mood shifts are not characteristic of bipolar disorder. Bipolar mood episodes last days to months.
what is mania
a sudden shift in behavior and mood where a person experiences elevated mood, energy, and activity levels.
Risky Behaviors mean what
Engaging in impulsive spending, reckless driving, or unsafe relationships.
how does Substance Use effect bipolar disorder
Alcohol or drug misuse may worsen or trigger symptoms.
can bipolar disorder be cured?
no
what can you remember to avoid judging behaviors
Mood swings, impulsivity, or withdrawal are symptoms, not personality flaws.
how can educating yourself help other with bipolar disorder
Understanding the condition helps reduce stigma and replaces misconceptions with empathy.
Decreased Sleep means what
Needing little rest but still feeling overly energetic.
what factors of environment effect bipolar disorder
Lifestyle changes, lack of sleep, or major life transitions can play a role
what ways can you help someone with bipolar disorder manage it
Encourage healthy habits, therapy, and medication routines without pressuring them. Respect their boundaries. Some days they may need space, others they may need company.
how can you Listen Without Minimizing Experiences
Offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space for them to talk. Validate their feelings and let them know you’re there for them.