Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, as it affects many parts of everyday life. And while many people associate bipolar disorder only with crisis or instability, the truth is that it affects people in many ways every day. Fortunately, it is a condition that people can learn to manage with the right treatment plan and support.
At Huntsman Mental Health Foundation, we understand that mental health conditions can affect every part of a person’s life, whether it’s straining relationships or causing difficulties at work or school. We also know that people living with bipolar disorder are more than their diagnosis. With support from the Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s care teams, crisis services, research, and community programs, individuals and families can find resources to help them move forward with hope.
Bipolar Disorder Is Serious, but It Can Be Managed
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition that causes changes in mood and energy, leading to periods of depression, mania, or hypomania. For some people, symptoms can last days or weeks and may appear without a clear trigger. Some may have rapid cycling, but not all, depending on the exact diagnosis.
In teens, bipolar disorder is particularly difficult to identify because mood changes are common during adolescence. That being said, there are signs to watch out for, such as:
- Insomnia
- Sudden increases in energy
- Impulsive behaviors
- Intense irritability
- Depression that interferes with daily life
Since symptoms of bipolar disorder can overlap with other conditions, such as ADHD, depression, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), it is essential to get an accurate diagnosis from a professional.
How Support Makes a Difference
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), millions of people are affected by mental health issues annually. The prevalence of bipolar I disorder is 1.5% among adults, while bipolar disorder is seen in approximately 2.8% of the population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention additionally shows 7,206 visits for mental health concerns to the emergency department by those between the ages of 12 and 17.
There is help. Successful treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves several kinds of support. To start with, patients receive a professional evaluation to diagnose the correct condition. Then they may start a treatment plan that could include medications, therapy, and other support, such as family or peer counseling.
Beyond that, daily routines play an important role. Social rhythm therapy, for example, focuses on helping people build steadier patterns around sleep, meals, activity, and relationships, which supports recovery by helping reduce disruptions that can affect mood and energy.
When Crisis Care Can Make the Difference
Even with treatment and support, some people may experience moments when symptoms are overwhelming. The Kem and Carolyn Gardner Mental Health Crisis Care Center is a significant resource for individuals and families facing urgent mental health needs, including bipolar-related crises.
The Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s Youth Crisis Care Program offers immediate, short-term mental health support for youth between the ages of 5–17 (or 18 if in high school) in a calm, supportive setting. Children and teens may stay for up to 23 hours while a compassionate care team evaluates their needs and identifies the next steps.
Building a Future of Hope
Huntsman Mental Health Foundation supports the work that helps bring these resources into real-world care. To learn more about mental health care, research, and community support, visit www.hmhf.org. To help expand access to care and bring hope to people living with mental health conditions, donate to the Huntsman Mental Health Foundation.
