When it appears in women, a bipolar disorder commonly takes a different form than it takes in men. Compared to cases affecting men, bipolar disorder in women also comes with increased risks for additional mental or physical health problems that worsen the impact of the illness. What’s more, women tend to have somewhat different bipolar symptoms than their male counterparts.
At Recovery Ranch Tennessee, our bipolar disorder treatment program is tailored to the unique needs of each person. Our mental health professionals understand the special considerations that must be considered when providing effective care for female clients. We are committed to giving our female clients all the support and resources they need to successfully manage their bipolar disorder symptoms and live an enriching life. Find your way to a healthier future at Recovery Ranch Tennessee by calling 1.844.876.7680 today.
5 Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Women
1. Depression
While bipolar disorder is often noted for its ability to trigger bouts of the elevated, often distressing state called mania, most people who develop bipolar illness actually first experience a bout of depression. Compared to men, women have a somewhat higher chance of developing depression before experiencing any manic symptoms.
2. Hypomania
Hypomania is a condition that produces less severe forms of the symptoms found in people affected by severe mania. It appears in individuals who have a form of bipolar disorder called bipolar II. Women develop bipolar II disorder approximately 33% more often than men. This means that they have higher chances of experiencing hypomania instead of mania.
3. Mixed Mania
In classic cases of bipolar illness, episodes of mania occur separately from episodes of depression. However, instead of following this pattern, some people develop mixed mania, a state which combines symptoms of mania with overlapping symptoms of depression. Bipolar disorder in women appears to have a higher chance of producing mixed mania than bipolar disorder in men.
4. Rapid Cycling of Mania and Depression
Bipolar episodes usually occur no more than three times a year. When episodes occur more frequently, doctors refer to the condition as rapid cycling bipolar illness. This form of bipolar disorder typically leads to an increased level of overall mood instability. Research shows that women have substantially higher risks for rapid cycling bipolar symptoms than men.
5. Changes Related to the Menstrual Cycle
Women with bipolar illness have unique risks for bipolar symptoms related to different stages of the monthly menstrual cycle. They also have risks associated with other changes in reproductive health, including menopause and the postpartum period following pregnancy and childbirth. Research indicates that any of these menstrual or reproductive changes can lead to at least a temporary worsening of the symptoms of bipolar illness. The worst risks appear during the postpartum period. Postpartum women could relapse into active bipolar disorder even if their symptoms were previously well-controlled. In addition, postpartum women have increased chances of developing new cases of bipolar illness.
Bipolar Help for Women at Recovery Ranch Tennessee
Our team of therapists works closely with each client to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs. We also provide regular psychiatric care, dual diagnosis care, and family counseling. In addition, we offer a wide range of holistic therapies that can help improve mood and well-being, including yoga, meditation, art therapy, and equine therapy.
If you or a woman in your life struggles with bipolar disorder, we urge you to call us today at 1.844.876.7680 or contact us online using our simple online form to learn more about our treatment program and how we can help you regain control of your life.
