Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, earlier called ‘manic-depressive illness’ or ‘manic depression’, is a mental health condition in which an individual experiences dramatic changes in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. Those affected by bipolar disorder go through periods of intense emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and deep lows (depression), which can significantly impact their everyday functioning.

At Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center, we understand the severity of bipolar disorder and offer TMS therapy as a non-invasive treatment option.

Difference between Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Bipolar Disorder

BPD involves frequent mood swings triggered by conflicts with others, along with self-injury.
Bipolar disorder, on the other hand, has longer episodes of intense highs and lows triggered by various factors like sleep changes or stress.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

Early Life Experiences: Childhood trauma and stressful events.
Environmental Triggers: Stressful life events like relationship breakdowns or loss of loved ones.
Life Challenges: Physical illness, sleep disturbances, or financial and relationship problems.
Neurochemical Imbalance: Disruptions in brain chemistry involving neurotransmitters like noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine.

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Manic Episodes

These symptoms last at least a week.

Excessive emotions like intense happiness, excitement, or sudden anger
Mood swings
Restlessness
Rapidly-changing thoughts
Feeling active with less need for sleep

Acting without thinking, like suddenly quitting a job
Unrealistic feelings of importance or power
Engaging in reckless behaviors like substance misuse or unprotected sex
Hallucinations or delusions in severe cases

Hypomania (Hypomanic Episodes)

Instead of a week, these symptoms last 4 days at a stretch. They don’t cause significant disruptions in daily life, though.

Heightened mood, like feeling very good and productive
Ability to function well despite mood changes
Often not recognizing unusual behavior, noticed by others
May lead to severe depression

Major Depressive Episodes

These symptoms last at least a fortnight.

Profound feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Low energy levels and lack of motivation
Inability to enjoy previously pleasurable activities
Trouble focusing or making decisions
Either too much or too little sleep/appetite
Suicidal ideation or feelings of worthlessness

Mixed Episodes

Simultaneous presence of manic and depressive symptoms
Restlessness alongside negative feelings and thoughts

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder: Manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes last at least 7 days, often with intense highs (mania) and lows (depression). Sometimes, urgent medical attention is required.

Bipolar II Disorder: Features at least one each of both hypomanic and depressive episodes. Such people often return to their normal functioning between these episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves frequent mood swings, but is less intense than full bipolar episodes.

Treating Bipolar Disorder with TMS Therapy

At Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center, we offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy as an effective treatment and safe choice for individuals struggling with bipolar disorder.

For people with bipolar disorder, TMS can help alleviate symptoms by modulating brain activity and promoting stability in mood fluctuations. With a target on specific regions of the brain involved in mood regulation, TMS aims to restore balance and improve overall mental well-being.