Bipolar
Living with bipolar disorder can involve significant shifts in your mood, energy, activity levels, and ability to manage everyday life. Periods of depression may leave you feeling withdrawn or exhausted, while periods of elevated mood can bring increased energy, confidence, impulsivity, or a reduced need for sleep.
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Experiences of bipolar disorder can vary from person to person. You may notice:
Significant changes in your mood or energy
Periods of feeling unusually energised, driven, or confident
Needing much less sleep than usual
Racing thoughts or feeling mentally sped up
Acting more impulsively or taking greater risks
Periods of low mood, exhaustion, or withdrawal
Difficulties maintaining routines, work, or relationships
Worrying about changes in your mood or becoming unwell again
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The changes that come with bipolar disorder can sometimes feel confusing, particularly when your mood, energy, and sense of yourself shift significantly between episodes.
You may also be carrying the impact of decisions made while unwell, changes in relationships, hospital admissions, or fears about experiencing another episode.
Understanding your own patterns, early warning signs, and emotional responses can help you feel more informed and supported in managing your mental health.
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Psychological therapy can be an important part of managing bipolar disorder alongside appropriate medical care.
Therapy can help you recognise changes in mood and early warning signs, develop routines that support stability, manage difficult emotions, and navigate the impact bipolar disorder may have on your relationships and sense of self.
Taking the next step
Living with bipolar disorder can affect many areas of your life, but you do not have to navigate these changes alone.
Our psychologists can support you to better understand your experiences, strengthen strategies that support stability, and work towards a life that feels meaningful and connected.