Early Signs of Bipolar Disorder

Mental health issues come in many shapes and forms. Many people suffer from mental health issues and do not even realize it. When people think about some of the most common mental health disorders, they often think about depression and anxiety. Even though it is true that both of these disorders are common, another mental health disorder that is commonly overlooked is called bipolar disorder. If you are concerned that someone you love may suffer from bipolar disorder, it is crucial to keep your eyes open for some of the early signs. The bipolar disorder therapy program at Alina Lodge can help your loved one learn how to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder, so they can focus on creating a brighter future.

You Are Questioning if Your Loved One Suffers from Depression

If you are concerned that someone you love may be suffering from depression, then bipolar disorder absolutely has to be on the differential diagnosis. Bipolar disorder occurs when someone fluctuates between episodes of mania and episodes of depression regularly. Therefore, even though you may think that your loved one has depression, this may simply be one part of a two-sided coin.

Some of the signs of depression include:

• Large changes in sleep habits, either sleeping all the time or not at all
• Significant changes in eating habits, either eating constantly or not at all
• Feelings of guilt related to situations that are out of your loved one’s control
• A total loss of enjoyment in activities that used to be fun

Even though it is important to consider depression as a possibility, your loved one may suffer from bipolar disorder instead. That is why it is essential to seek help for this mental health disorder as quickly as possible.

Your Loved One Appears to Be Spending a Lot of Money

At first, bipolar disorder may start insidiously. When people who suffer from bipolar disorder go through a manic episode, they tend to spend a lot of money. For example, it is not unusual for people who suffer from bipolar disorder to empty their bank accounts.

Even though your loved one may simply be overspending his or her budget, this could also be a sign of bipolar disorder. If your loved one goes from buying expensive clothing, shoes, and watches to suddenly purchasing multiple cars, this can be a serious financial mistake that is difficult to undo. As a result, you must keep your eyes out for spending sprees, as you want to put a stop to this before something is purchased that cannot be returned.

Your Loved One Experiences Unexplained Emotional Swings

Emotional lability is one of the most common signs of bipolar disorder, and it is usually written off as a mood swing. Even though it is true that there are other conditions that can lead to mood swings, the mood swings that accompany bipolar disorder are typically far more drastic.

At the same time, bipolar disorder tends to start with smaller mood swings. If your loved one tends to fluctuate between crying, anger, and euphoria, this could be a sign of bipolar disorder. While it is possible that this could simply be a straightforward mood swing, it could also be the start of something more. Therefore, it is essential to seek the help of a trained medical professional.

Rely on the Expertise of Alina Lodge for Help with Bipolar Disorder

It is not unusual for people with bipolar disorder to be diagnosed with depression first. Regardless of the mental health disorder from which your loved one suffers, he or she deserves to have access to the best care possible. That is where we can help you. We are Alina Lodge, and we specialize in treating a wide variety of mental health conditions. Contact us today at 833.685.1700 to make an appointment.