What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that involves intense mood swings with emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These shifts can affect energy levels, sleep, and the ability to function in everyday life. An estimated 2.8% of U.S. adults have bipolar disorder in any given year.
- During the manic episodes, it’s normal to experience heightened energy, activity, and euphoria. This can lead to impulsive decisions, racing thoughts, a decreased need for sleep, and risky behaviors like overspending, reckless driving, or substance use.
- During depressive episodes, you may feel intense sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in most activities. It’s common to struggle with fatigue, experience changes in appetite or sleep patterns, or have trouble concentrating.
If you or a loved one is showing signs of bipolar disorder, East Point Behavioral Health, one of the best treatment centers in Massachusetts, can help improve your symptoms and get you on the path to recovery. We provide both in-person and
Do You Qualify for Mental Health Treatment in Massachusetts?
East Point Behavioral Health provides specialized mental health care in Massachusetts for adults aged 18 and older. While we do not specialize in substance use disorders (SUD), we address co-occurring conditions and can connect you with trusted SUD treatment referrals if needed. Our mission is to remove barriers to mental health care by offering immediate intervention and prompt access to treatment. Contact us today to start your journey toward mental wellness!
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a category that includes several different diagnoses: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. All three types involve clear changes in mood, activity levels, and energy. However, bipolar I and bipolar II are the most common. All types of bipolar disorder can be successfully treated with outpatient bipolar therapy in Massachusetts, and we at East Point Behavioral Health customize our programs to address the particular needs and challenges of each of our clients.
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar I disorder is diagnosed when a person experiences at least one manic episode. This form of bipolar disorder often involves episodes of severe mood swings, ranging from intense mania to depression, although a depressive episode is not required for this diagnosis. Sometimes, individuals may experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of mania and depression occur simultaneously.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II disorder is marked by patterns of mood disorders that include hypomania (a milder form of mania) and major depressive episodes. Unlike bipolar I, bipolar II does not include full-blown manic episodes, which are more severe and disruptive. However, it can include mixed features, where symptoms of depression and hypomania occur together.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is a mild form of bipolar disorder characterized by mood fluctuations, which involve hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms. The symptoms are less severe than in bipolar I and II, but they can still negatively impact relationships and quality of life. To be diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder, you must have symptoms that persist 50% of the time for at least two years.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Getting an early and accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder is an important first step toward taking control of your mental health. Once you understand what you’re dealing with, it becomes easier to make sense of your symptoms and explore the best treatment options for you. A personalized bipolar disorder treatment MA plan can then be created to support your specific needs and goals. If you’re also managing anxiety, services like online therapy for anxiety disorder can be integrated to provide a more complete approach to your care.
Treating Bipolar Disorder in Massachusetts
There’s no question that bipolar disorder causes intense shifts in mood, but how it affects individuals varies. Fortunately, seeking professional treatment allows you to address your unique needs while also receiving family support to make your home environment more peaceful and supportive of your recovery. Here are the benefits of bipolar disorder treatment MA at a comprehensive treatment center like East Point Behavioral Health.
Thorough and Extensive Treatment Plans
Bipolar disorder is complex and requires a thorough treatment plan that addresses your social, emotional, mental, behavioral, and physical health. At our Massachusetts treatment center, you can expect personalized recovery plans that include a combination of therapeutic interventions. Our mental health professionals recognize that no two people are the same. Therefore, everyone deserves a fresh approach when it comes to treating their condition.
Medication to Treat Mood Swings
Mood swings are often the biggest challenge for people with bipolar disorder, which is why medication may be suggested. Medication for bipolar disorder typically includes mood stabilizers like lithium to help balance mood and prevent manic and depressive episodes. At East Point Behavioral Health, our mental health providers offer thoughtful prescribing and ongoing medication management for mental health, always aiming to use the lowest effective dose to support stability and overall well-being.
Therapeutic Interventions
Therapeutic interventions, such as talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy in Massachusetts, and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), can play a big role in managing the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people see what their negative thought patterns are, giving them the chance to change them. IPSRT is more about regulating daily routines and tasks. Even family-focused therapy can be used to treat bipolar disorder, as it helps when family members have a firm understanding of the condition.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
If medication and therapies aren’t enough, you can explore electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which includes stimulating the brain using controlled shocks. ECT is much safer today than in the past, when they used high levels of electricity to put people to sleep. Modern ECT uses electric currents in a controlled setting.
Lifestyle Changes
When you receive your diagnosis, it’s important to consider the positive lifestyle changes that can support your recovery. Examples include getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding substance use, and managing stress, for which online stress therapy in Massachusetts can be helpful. These lifestyle changes not only empower you to take control of your recovery but also build up resilience so that you can deal with stress more effectively.
Intensive Outpatient Services (IOS) for Bipolar Disorder in Massachusetts
If you or a loved one needs treatment for bipolar disorder, East Point Behavioral Health can help. We offer all our treatment services under a single roof, staffed by a consistent team, eliminating the need for overnight stays. The benefits of treating bipolar disorder in IOP programs in Massachusetts are:
Less Restrictive
Intensive Outpatient Program, or IOP for short, is much less restrictive than inpatient programs, as you don’t have to live at the facility to receive care. You can keep living at home, with the people and things that make you happiest. At the same time, you will be receiving treatment for bipolar disorder MA, allowing you to start feeling better. Being able to access treatment without disruption to your daily life is a huge benefit.
Tailored Treatment Plans
Bipolar disorder is unique because there are different types with different symptoms. Therefore, having a treatment plan that’s tailored to your exact needs ensures you address your specific symptoms. Our mental health professionals will determine whether you need therapy, medication, or a combination of both, as well as how to cope with mood swings if they do occur.
Family Involvement
Family involvement is important here at East Point Behavioral Health. Having a family that understands what you’re going through and how to support you leads to better outcomes. During your time in IOP, you’ll spend time in therapy individually and with your family members. This can help improve things at home, as your family will know how to better communicate with you and handle the mood swings that may occur.
Better Stability
Changes to your routine can cause you to shift between hypomanic and manic episodes, which can be difficult for both you and your family. Taking your mood-stabilizing medications can help you keep on top of these intense mood swings, while therapy teaches you how to cope with your symptoms. IOS provides a safe, supportive environment where your medications are managed and therapy is delivered, stabilizing your mood while also managing the symptoms of other mental health disorders.
Manage Bipolar Disorder from Anywhere with Online Therapy
We understand that in-person bipolar disorder treatment in Massachusetts is not always possible. As these disorders require consistent support, we offer Telehealth programs to help you regardless of where you are. Whether you live in rural areas or far from mental health treatment centers, experience mobility issues, lack transportation, or simply prefer a virtual setting, you can rely on our online therapy for bipolar disorder to provide assistance whenever you need it.
Online bipolar disorder counseling is equally efficient as in-person therapies. Furthermore, research shows that people tend to adhere to virtual psychotherapy programs more than to in-person ones. This is but one of the benefits of online therapy. Telehealth is more accessible and far more flexible than in-person therapy, which is why it’s an important element of our bipolar disorder treatment services in MA.
You're Not Alone - Help for Bipolar Disorder Is Here
If you’re living with bipolar disorder, East Point Behavioral Health is here to support you—both online and in person. Our experienced clinicians understand the complexity of this condition and provide evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized bipolar disorder treatment in MA that promotes long-term stability and includes your loved ones as part of the recovery journey. Reach out today and take the next step toward greater balance, resilience, and mental wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bipolar disorder be managed without medication?
While in rare cases, individuals with bipolar disorder can manage their condition with psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and a strong support system, for the majority, this is not the case. Most people benefit from a combination of psychotherapy and medications. A treatment plan tailored to your needs will determine the best course of action in your case.
Is online therapy effective for treating bipolar disorder?
Absolutely yes. Solution focused therapy is actually a great starting point, especially for those who haven’t been in therapy before. It’s not threatening, collaborative, and client-oriented. All you need is the willingness to reflect and identify what’s working. Your therapist will guide you through the process.
How long does bipolar disorder treatment take?
Each life story is different, and many factors influence the timeline for bipolar disorder treatment. While some people notice improvements within weeks, others may require ongoing support to maintain stability. At East Point Behavioral Health, we prioritize achieving sustainable and lifelong results for our clients.
What kind of therapy works best for bipolar disorder?
Evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), are most commonly used in treating bipolar disorder. Other complementary methods also play a significant role in the success of the treatment. Tailoring each bipolar disorder treatment in MA is crucial for the success of the program.
Can East Point treat co-occurring disorders along with bipolar?
Absolutely. Many people with bipolar disorder struggle with co-occurring mental health or substance use problems, making it extremely important to customize treatment plans so as to address all problems simultaneously. At East Point Behavioral Health, we provide integrated care to address dual diagnosis and ensure all aspects of your mental health are addressed.
