Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder (BPD) is a mental health issue characterized by extreme mood swings that come in cycles. These mood swings can significantly impact a person’s ability to manage everyday tasks or have functional relationships with others. It can be especially difficult for family members who often feel like they must tiptoe around their loved one for fear of setting them off. Unfortunately, when someone living with bipolar disorder drinks or uses drugs, it can make it even more difficult for them to manage their BPD symptoms.
The good news is that both bipolar disorder and substance abuse are treatable disorders. Contact us at The Oaks at La Paloma now to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment options for patients.
Signs of Bipolar Disorder
Because bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme ups and downs, there are two sets of symptoms that can signify BPD.
Mania is the “up” period of bipolar disorder, defined by an overly happy mood or extreme irritability. Manic symptoms can include:
- Talking very quickly
- Moving very quickly
- Getting distracted very easily
- Starting new projects
- Feeling restless
- Not sleeping
- Feeling very powerful, even omnipotent
- Making high-risk choices
- Indulging in impulse behaviors
The depressive period, or “down” period of bipolar disorder, is defined by sadness and a lack of interest in anything, even in taking care of oneself. Symptoms include:
- Low libido
- Extreme fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory issues
- Difficulty making decisions
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Extreme increase or decrease in eating
- Extreme changes to sleep patterns
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
When patients experience these extreme moods, it can be an indication that bipolar disorder is the issue and that treatment would be helpful.
Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse
It’s not uncommon for someone diagnosed with a mental health disorder to attempt to medicate the symptoms with drugs and/or alcohol. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that about 37 percent of patients diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder were also diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health disorder. The same is true for 53 percent of people diagnosed with a drug use disorder. Another study published in the journal Bipolar Disorders found that about 60 percent of bipolar patients struggled with substance abuse of some kind during their lives.
Unfortunately, the consequences can be serious when the two disorders collide. Drug and alcohol abuse can:
- Cause BPD symptoms to increase in frequency or severity
- Trigger a shift in mood swings
- Contribute to violent behavior when under the influence
Because each disorder can become a trigger for the other – patients may feel compelled to get high or drink when they experience certain BPD symptoms and experience more significant BPD symptoms when they use drugs or alcohol – it is important that patients seek treatment for both issues at the same time. When patients receive treatment for bipolar disorder during substance abuse treatment, their ability to remain clean and sober for the long-term increases, as does their ability to more effectively manage their BPD symptoms.
Get Help for BPD Today
If your loved one is living with bipolar disorder and a substance abuse issue, we can help here at The Oaks at La Paloma. Contact us now at the phone number listed above and connect your loved one with our dual diagnosis treatment program today.