Did you know that you can have Bipolar I Disorder without depression? by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT
When people hear the word Bipolar, they are typically thinking of Bipolar I Disorder. They would associate this disorder with having extreme “highs” and “lows.” Even though the majority of individuals who experience mania also struggle with depression, depression is not a criteria for the diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder. An individual experiencing at least one manic episode would be the requirement for Bipolar I Disorder.
What is mania?
A manic episode is characterized by heightened irritability or an extreme increase in energy. This can include three (or four if only irritable) of the following for at least seven days:
Extreme increase in self-esteem or change in appearance
Reduced need for sleep while still feeling rested the following morning
Rapid and pressured speech, challenging others to keep up with the conversation
Racing thoughts that may become difficult to manage
Easily distracted by stimuli or goes from task to task
Increased desire to be productive, often with goal-directed ideas
Engaging in risky activities without considering the negative consequences
Mania can affect major areas of the individual’s life, such as work, school, relationships, or self care practices. For some, it can lead to hallucinations or delusions which may possibly result in psychiatric hospitalization.
How can therapy help?
Thankfully Bipolar Disorder is treatable with the right approach. Even though episodes are likely to return, they can be managed before they become too severe. This can also help reduce the negative impacts on the individual’s life. Action steps can be practiced with a mental health professional who is knowledgeable and experienced in working with clients living with bipolar disorder.
I can provide in person and video therapy. My office is located in Irvine, which is near Newport Beach, Orange, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Seal Beach, and beyond. I provide video therapy to individuals who live in California, including Orange County, San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, at more. I work with OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Asian American & Pacific Islanders.
Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.
Reference: American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Bipolar and related disorders. In Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.)