Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by unpredictable mood swings. While it can affect people with any gender identity, the manifestation, progression and impact differ significantly among women.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Mental health professionals have classified three types of bipolar disorder based on symptom severity – bipolar I, bipolar II and cyclothymic disorder. When you have bipolar disorder, you may cycle between periods of mania, hypomania and depression.
- Manic episodes: Mania gives you more energy, making you feel euphoric or invincible. You may need less sleep and are much more talkative and excitable than usual, though you could also have irrational or delusional ideas during these periods.
- Hypomanic episodes: These are less intense than manic episodes but still can significantly impact your daily life.
- Depressive episodes: Periods marked by feelings of profound sadness, hopelessness and a lack of energy or interest in formerly enjoyable activities.
Unique Challenges for Women
Women with bipolar disorder face specific challenges and complications.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Your hormonal cycle can impact the severity and frequency of mood swings. Menstruation, pregnancy and menopause may all trigger or exacerbate episodes of mania or depression.
- Misdiagnosis: Women with bipolar disorder often get misdiagnosed with depression because they are more likely to experience depressive episodes and rapid cycling than men.
- Co-occurring disorders: Women with bipolar disorder are more likely to have additional complications due to a dual diagnosis.
Intersection With Other Mental Health Issues
The intersection of bipolar disorder with other mental and behavioral health issues can complicate the clinical picture and affect treatment strategies.
- Anxiety: Many women with bipolar disorder also struggle with anxiety, which can exacerbate mood swings and complicate the management of both conditions.
- Substance use: The impulsivity and poor judgment seen in manic states often lead to substance use, which aggravates bipolar disorder symptoms and adds a layer of complexity to recovery.
- Eating disorders: Mood instabilities can increase your vulnerability to eating disorders, which share features like impulse control issues and poor self-esteem.
Managing Bipolar Disorder in Women
Bipolar disorder is a multifaceted condition, and effective treatment requires careful attention to various biological and psychosocial factors. At Rising Roads Recovery, we create custom treatment plans for women living with bipolar disorder and co-occurring conditions.
Instead of guilting or shaming you, our compassionate staff will work with you on an individual level, teaching you to accept learning opportunities and equipping you with all the skills and tools you need to protect your sobriety and mental well-being.
If you deal with bipolar disorder, you can find the comprehensive care and support to manage your symptoms at our women’s-only California treatment center. Contact us today to request help.
