Understanding Manic Episodes
Every person deals with the roller coaster of emotions we experience as humans. The difference between a person with bipolar disorder is that the feelings can be extreme opposites. So, what does bipolar feel like? This week, we will be exploring the manic side or the intense highs of bipolar disorder. We will also be touching on what is happening in the brain, common challenges people with bipolar face, how to support someone through their manic episode, and more.
What is a Manic Episode?
Before we get to those points, let’s start at the basics. Bipolar is named due to the duality of the extreme emotions someone with the condition experiences. The euphoric highs are described as a period of mania. This is why Bipolar has commonly been referred to as “Manic Depression.” A manic episode can be a wild ride for your emotions and energy levels. Mania can feel like a high, where you are excited and happy without significant reason. If you are experiencing a manic episode, you likely have increased energy and may feel like you can do anything. This can result in risky behaviors without thinking about the consequences. During a manic episode, you might talk fast (also called rapid speech) and feel like your thoughts are racing a mile a minute.
For example, if a typical person decides they would like to climb a mountain, they will start training and preparing to ensure their safety and ability to achieve their goal. If you are experiencing mania, you might get the idea to climb a mountain and try to begin immediately to accomplish your goal without proper training, gear, or safety measures. During mania, you often may overlook safety aspects because you feel more capable, powerful, or invincible. This doesn’t just mean physical safety is ignored. Still, a lack of foresight can cause you to spend large amounts of money, try risky business ventures, or participate in unsafe sexual practices. Manic episodes can last for days or even weeks.
What Causes Manic Episodes?
Bipolar disorder is caused by genetics and brain chemistry. Hormones in the brain, such as cortisol and adrenaline, get out of balance, causing your emotions to become intense and out of control. For more information on the bipolar brain, check out our previous blog here. A variety of stressors can spark manic episodes. Significant life changes, like a move, change in job, relationship, or loss, are examples of triggers that may kick-start a manic episode. For a more in-depth look, check out Navigating Bipolar Triggers.
Coping with Manic Episodes
It’s important to remember that if you or a loved one is experiencing mania, it’s essential to speak to a doctor and mental health therapist who has experience with bipolar disorder. Medication is often necessary to regulate brain chemistry. Research shows talking to a therapist can help establish coping skills for the ups and downs of bipolar mania. At Wellness Space Counseling, we offer therapy services with a bipolar specialist. Manic episodes can be best managed with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Conclusion
Bipolar can feel like an emotional whirlwind at times. Your moods may take you in many directions, leaving you exhausted. Therapy that specializes in bipolar disorder helps you identify your triggers for mania. You will learn coping strategies for triggers and learn ways to reduce the negative symptoms of manic episodes. Just like a rollercoaster eventually comes to a stop, manic episodes can be managed with the proper support and tools. So, hold on tight and reach out for help when needed!
Counseling in Columbia, MD
Feeling like your emotions are in control of you instead of you feeling in control of them can be daunting. Know that you are not alone, and help is available. If you are ready to learn coping strategies for mania, contact us at Wellness Space Counseling. We specialize in bipolar therapy and are here to help. Contact us today!
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