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Is It Time To Get Help? Here’s How To Decide

Is It Time To Get Help? Here’s How To Decide

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we're celebrating by taking on some of the biggest topics and challenges in mental health. Today we’re discussing how to decide if it’s time to get help. Read on for more information on the key indicators for seeking help and how to get the help you need.

What would you do if you had a broken arm? If you’re like most people, you’d probably make sure to see a doctor quickly and regularly, take care of your cast, take some pain medicine, and rest as much as possible until it heals.

Imagine if getting help with your mental health was just as easy! 

People often forget that mental health is just as important as physical health. Living with mental illness can be just as debilitating as having a broken bone.

But since mental health disorders aren’t usually as visibly obvious, it’s hard to tell when it’s time to seek professional help.

On top of that, the stigma against mental health has made it hard for people to find help. Many people still think that going to therapy or taking medication means you’re taking the “easy way” out, or that depression and anxiety will go away without any help. 

That can’t be further from the truth. In fact, getting help for your mental health is just as important as getting help for your physical health.

Here are some ways to tell if you should start therapy or seek medication treatment:

You’re experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety

Depression and anxiety are difficult on their own, but they can also be indicators of other mental health conditions. Either way, experiencing the symptoms of either could be an indication that it's time to get help.

Symptoms of depression and anxiety include:

  • feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
  • no longer being interested in the things you used to enjoy
  • not being able to focus on anything
  • experiencing fatigue or aches and pain
  • being easily irritated or experiencing mood swings
  • worrying excessively or irrationally
  • having thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Note: If you’re feeling extreme thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please call the National Suicide Hotline immediately at 1-800-273-8255.

You feel tired all the time

When you’re struggling with your mental health, simple things like getting out of bed or brushing your hair may seem impossible. A care team can see if there are any deeper, underlying health issues. They can also teach you ways to improve your energy and get better sleep.

Your coping mechanisms have stopped working or become harmful

There are a lot of healthy ways to cope with feeling sad or angry. But if you find yourself using unhealthy coping mechanisms like drinking heavily or spending compulsively, that could be a sign of a deeper issue.

A therapist and provider can help you sort through what’s going on and teach you how to use healthy coping mechanisms for better mental health.

You find it difficult to be social or maintain relationships

You might find yourself isolating or distancing yourself from your friends and family when you’re struggling with your mental health. Talking privately with a therapist can help you understand what’s going on and how to maintain healthy bonds with people who love you.

You’ve experienced a life-changing event

Maybe you’re going through a divorce or dealing with the death of a loved one. Big life changes can make you feel out of control, but you can process your emotions healthily with the help of a therapist and care team. Certain medications can also help.

You’re interested in getting to know yourself better

One great thing about online therapy: you can start anytime! You don’t need to wait until you have a crisis. 

Talk therapy is a great way to learn about yourself and process your emotions. With a therapist and care team, you can learn how to deal with stress and everyday issues that pop up in your life. 

How to Get the Help You Need

Talk to someone you trust 

Confiding in people you trust about how you’re feeling is a good first step on the road to mental health treatment. Remembering that there are people who love and support you can give you the boost you need to seek professional help.

Prioritize self-care

Taking care of yourself is a great way to help improve your mental health. Self-care is important for everyone and can help you deal with symptoms you may be experiencing.

Some things you can try include:

Take a free emotional health assessment with Cerebral

Cerebral makes it easy to seek long-term mental health treatment with plans that include talk therapy and medication management for one affordable and flat monthly rate. 

Our holistic approach to mental health care means that you don’t need to jump through hoops to find a therapist or health care provider. You can get mental health care without even needing to leave your home.

With Cerebral, taking the first step to feeling well is easy.

To get started, all you need to do is:

  1. Fill out a short online form. Just a few short questions to help us understand your symptoms.
  2. Hop on a video/phone call with your prescriber or therapist. Your prescribing provider will help determine your treatment plan. If you choose a therapist, you can meet with them once per week.

You can choose from any of our plans, which are:

Therapy

  • Weekly video/phone sessions with a licensed therapist
  • Chat securely with your therapist anytime
  • Regular progress tracking by your therapist

Medication + Therapy (our most effective plan)

  • Evaluation, diagnosis, and prescription by a medical provider
  • Weekly video/phone sessions with a licensed therapist
  • Monthly medication delivery (if prescribed)
  • Chat securely with your therapist anytime
  • Regular progress tracking by prescriber & therapist

Medication & Care Counseling

  • Evaluation, diagnosis, and prescription by a medical provider
  • Monthly medication delivery (if prescribed)
  • Regular video/phone sessions with an assigned therapist
  • Evidence-based behavioral health counseling & regular progress checks

If you’re struggling with your mental health, you are not alone. In fact, 47.1 million people in the U.S. live with a mental health condition. But you don’t need to face it alone. Cerebral can help you get started with mental health treatment in a way that suits you.

Medically reviewed by: David Mou, MD, MBA

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Mar 25, 2024
Therapy
7 Common Therapy Myths
Therapy is a complex and often misunderstood aspect of modern mental healthcare. As the destigmatization of mental health has grown, so too has the interest and awareness of therapy.  However, with this comes a range of myths and misunderstandings that could be preventing people from seeking the help they need.  Busting seven all-too-common myths, this article serves as an essential guide for anyone curious about therapy and mental health. Myth 1: Therapy is only for people with severe mental illness Up until recent decades, mental health treatment was often reserved for severe or acute psychiatric conditions. That could be where this misconception comes from, but there also still can be a limited understanding of the scope and purpose of therapy.  This myth is one of the most damaging ones, as it overshadows the everyday benefits of therapy and creates a barrier for many individuals who may be in need of help but do not feel like their problems are ‘serious enough.’  Fact: Therapy can help you with a wide range of issues The truth is, therapy can benefit anyone who wants to understand themselves better or improve their life in any way. In-person and virtual therapists are equipped to tackle a vast array of issues, from everyday stress to diagnosable mental health conditions.  The bottom line: It's not about the severity of the problem; it's about the opportunity for growth and healing that therapy provides. Myth 2: People will think I’m crazy or weak if I go to therapy Historically, mental health issues have been cloaked in shame and secrecy, leading to the erroneous belief that needing psychological help equates to a personal failing or a lack of mental stability.  This notion is magnified by cultural narratives that valorize self-reliance and position emotional vulnerability as a weakness. These harmful misconceptions can discourage people from seeking the help they need, fearing judgment or ostracization from others.  The truth: Being in therapy is a sign of self-awareness and strength Going to therapy is not a sign of weakness because it’s all about confronting personal challenges and working toward improved mental resilience. Seeing a therapist is a brave and proactive step towards mental well-being. Society's perceptions are shifting, and more people than ever are recognizing the benefits of therapy. In fact, those who attend therapy are often admired for their courage and willingness to prioritize their health. Think of it this way: ​​You wouldn’t judge someone for going to the gym to improve their physical health. Going to therapy is no different, as it’s all about fortifying one’s mental health. Myth 3: You have to see a therapist forever People often harbor the belief that once someone starts therapy, they're bound to it for life due to the depth and complexity of mental health issues.  This view may be influenced by depictions in media that dramatize therapy as an intensely long-term commitment or from anecdotal stories of individuals who have been in therapy for many years.  Fact: The choice to continue therapy is fundamentally yours Therapy duration is highly variable and dependent on individual circumstances. For some, short-term therapy may be enough to address immediate concerns and provide tools for managing mental health. For others, long-term work may be necessary.  A good therapist will work with you to set clear goals and reevaluate your progress as you go.  The bottom line: The aim is for you to gain the skills you need and feel comfortable managing your mental health independently. Myth 4: Therapy is too expensive It’s a common misconception that it’s an unaffordable luxury. The societal stigma surrounding mental health can contribute to the hesitation to invest in therapy, as people might not view it with the same necessity as physical health services.  Particularly when it comes to in-person therapy, the cost of a session can also vary widely depending on a variety of factors like qualifications, location, and session length. This can lead to the perception that it’s prohibitively expensive.  The truth: Affordable therapy options are available Online therapy options are typically more affordable than traditional in-person therapy, which can often range from $100 to $200 per session. One reason why online therapy often costs less than that range is because teletherapy has removed a lot of the barriers that come with in-person therapy., For instance, Cerebral offers different monthly online therapy subscriptions based on your needs and budget. You also don’t need to worry about transportation costs, arranging childcare, or any of the other expenses or logistics that come with traditional therapy.  Additional options to make therapy work within your budget can also include: Finding a therapist that offers sliding-scale fees based on income Selecting a provider that works with your insurance to minimize out-of-pocket costs  Searching for a community health center that offers affordable therapy services Determining if your employer offers any mental health benefits Seeing if the cost qualifies as an HSA/FSA expenditure if you have an account The cost of in-person or teletherapy should be viewed as an investment in your long-term well-being. It’s also important to recognize the value it provides. The bottom line: Therapy can be an accessible and critical component of overall healthcare. It just may take a little time to find a solution that fits your financial needs.  Myth 5: All therapy is the same Some may mistakenly think of therapy in broad, undifferentiated strokes — envisioning a patient lying on a couch, talking while a therapist passively listens and occasionally asks, ‘And how does that make you feel?’  Fact: Therapy is a highly personalized experience  There are a diverse array of therapeutic approaches designed to cater to a wide range of psychological needs. What works for one person may not work for another. Whether you’re seeing a virtual therapist or an in-person one, sessions will be tailored to your specific needs.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and art therapy are just a few examples. Each approach has its own philosophy and methods. Explore more: What Are The Different Types of Therapy? It's important to do your research and find an in-person or online therapist who uses an approach that resonates with you. Myth 6: Therapy is about exploring childhood trauma The belief that therapy primarily revolves around dissecting childhood trauma might stem from the prominence of Freudian psychoanalysis in popular culture, which often emphasizes exploring early life experiences as the root of adult psychological issues.  The truth: It’s just as much about addressing the present and the future Why the past matters: The purpose of exploring past events is to understand how those experiences may be affecting your current mental state and behaviors. However, therapy is not solely about uncovering trauma. It's about helping you do the following:  Build better relationships  Improve self-esteem and self-worth Manage stress Develop coping strategies Identify needs and wants Develop action plans to meet goals Navigate change  All of these outcomes are applicable to your present and future experiences, and ultimately will help you lead a more fulfilling life. Myth 7: I’ll feel immediately better after each therapy session Many people might hold the misconception that in-person or online therapy offers a quick fix. This expectation may stem from the desire for instant gratification. Our fast-paced, solution-oriented culture often anticipates immediate results in many areas of life, including self-improvement and health.  Additionally, portrayals of therapy in the media can contribute to this misunderstanding, where characters are often shown having breakthroughs and resolving deep-seated issues in a single session.  Fact: Therapy is a process In some cases, you may experience relief or clarity after a session, but the work of therapy has different stages, and some require more time than others. Whether you choose in-person or virtual, therapy will lead to gradual progress with consistent effort. Like any form of personal growth, the path to emotional well-being will include peaks, valleys, and plateaus. Remember: Feeling worse before feeling better is not uncommon as therapy can bring up difficult emotions and challenges. This is all part of the healing process. Removing the stigma of therapy Therapy is a highly valuable tool for maintaining good mental health, yet it continues to be plagued by outdated beliefs and misconceptions. Gaining a more accurate understanding of the practice ensures that we don’t perpetuate a harmful stigma of mental health that can lead to people neglecting their mental well-being or delaying this treatment option.  Whether you have a diagnosed mental illness or are simply looking for ways to live a more meaningful life, therapy can provide the treatment, guidance, and support you need. At Cerebral, we develop personalized plans to ensure you get the most value and benefit from our unique results-oriented program. Discover how our online therapy experience is different from other services. Image by Freepik.
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Mar 13, 2024
Self-care
Addressing Suicidal Thoughts: A Guide for Suicide Prevention
Even in the face of its seriousness, suicidal ideation often goes undiscussed because of the stigma that can surround it. But, as we're talking more and more openly about mental health, it's essential that we approach the subject of suicidal thoughts with as much empathy, openness, and support as possible. If you find yourself grappling with these thoughts, or if you're trying to understand and support someone you care about who is, this guide is for you.  Suicide prevention support If you're thinking about acting on suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.  Call 911 if you’re having a mental health emergency. Text HOME to 741-741 if you're emotionally distressed and need immediate support. Call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. What is suicidal ideation? Suicidal ideation transcends mere fleeting thoughts about death; it's a whole range of thinking that might start with not wanting to wake up and can go all the way to planning how to end one's life. Often accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, these intrusive thoughts can be potentially dangerous. Despite the severity, feeling this way doesn't have to be permanent. Instead, these thoughts can be a signal that indicates deeper psychological distress and emotional pain that need to be addressed.  The prevalence of intrusive thoughts  While it can feel isolating to experience, this mental health condition affects many. Every year, millions of people report these thoughts to medical professionals. Between 2015 and 2019, the CDC found that an estimated annual average of 10.6 million U.S. adults had thoughts of suicide in the past year, which accounted for about 4.3% of the adult population. Intrusive thoughts don't discriminate — depression can affect individuals of any age, gender, education level, socioeconomic status, or background. Suicidal ideation is part of a broader mental health landscape; it’s not a ‘character flaw.’  What causes suicidal thoughts? The causes of suicidal ideation are as varied as the individuals who experience it. They often stem from life circumstances, mental health disorders, or personal resilience levels. Common underlying conditions can include:  Major depressive disorder Bipolar disorder Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Social isolation Chronic pain Substance use disorder Understanding the warning signs of suicidal ideation in others For friends and family, recognizing the warning signs for suicide is paramount for timely intervention. The signals can look similar to the signs of depression and anxiety, but are typically more severe. Look for these behaviors: Withdrawal from social circles  Giving away possessions Sudden calmness after a period of depression Statements of feeling hopeless or having no purpose  Remember: Not everyone exhibits clear ‘red flags,’ and a person at risk might go to great lengths to hide their pain. How is suicidal ideation diagnosed? Identifying suicidal ideation typically occurs during a supportive conversation with a mental health expert. These caring professionals will talk with a patient, sometimes using questionnaires, to better understand their feelings and the severity of the thoughts they're facing.  They will also look for any underlying mental health conditions or life experiences that may be contributing to or exacerbating the intrusive thoughts. The recognition of suicidal ideation is less about certainty and more about concern. The presence of suicidal ideation often prompts an immediate need for intervention, regardless of other diagnoses. It's about recognizing that these feelings are a call for help and responding with the urgent care and support needed. What to do if you are experiencing suicidal ideation When you’re experiencing suicidal ideation, seeking help and taking action are crucial. Getting urgent help Seek help immediately if you're thinking about acting on suicidal thoughts. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free, confidential support and crisis resources. Your options also include calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room. No matter what course of urgent help is seen as the best fit at the moment, you will want to seek the support of a mental health professional as soon as possible. That also can be your first step when experiencing distress. Steps to take when it isn’t an emergency If you’re not in immediate danger, these are the first steps you could take toward getting the judgment-free help you deserve. Make an appointment with a mental health professional Professional intervention is crucial in managing the risk of suicide or self harm. A mental health professional will provide a safe space to explore the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. They can guide you to understanding the factors and strategies to manage your mental well-being effectively. Identify and remove triggers Start by identifying the triggers that lead to these intrusive thoughts. They might be certain places, people, or events that consistently lead to distress. It might not necessarily mean avoiding them permanently, but it can allow for a safer environment while you address this mental health condition. Reach out to a close friend or loved one  You’ll need a strong support system. You may be nervous about opening up, but doing so with a trusted, supportive connection can be a critical step in alleviating the burden, finding relief, and embarking on recovery. Call a suicide hotline If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone close to you at the time, a suicide hotline can be an invaluable mental health resource. Specialists on these hotlines are trained to support and assist those in crisis.  Managing suicidal ideation is a process; there will be ups and downs. The most crucial thing is to keep moving forward and continue seeking help from mental health resources. Treatment options for suicidal ideation There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating suicidal ideation. Treatment will vary based on the individual’s needs but may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Hospitalization or intensive outpatient programs may be necessary for those at immediate risk of self-harm.  Additionally, new approaches to reducing suicidal ideation are continually being explored and implemented, often creating expanded access to care.  Treatment goals Regardless of the course of treatment, the focus will be on achieving several key goals. Address the underlying factors contributing to the intrusive thoughts.  Build coping strategies for preventing suicide. Create a support network for the individual.  Individuals will be actively involved in their treatment plan, working collaboratively with their care team. The path to recovery Recovery from suicidal thoughts comes with its own challenges, but many individuals who have once experienced these thoughts have gone on to live fulfilling lives. Recovery often involves finding the right treatment, building a solid support system, and learning healthy coping mechanisms. We know that each person's road to recovery is unique, but it’s important to avoid projecting set timelines or expectations. Celebrating the small victories can make a world of difference. Whether it’s practicing a new coping skill or continuing to seek help, these concrete steps signify resilience and strength. Remember: Patience and consistency in support are key if you’re standing by someone in recovery.  The myth and reality of suicidal thoughts and creativity There is a common misconception that suicidal ideation is a byproduct of creativity. While individuals with artistic inclinations might be predisposed to deeper emotional experiences, it’s crucial not to romanticize or normalize the suffering that comes with suicidal thoughts. The art lies in expressing your emotions in a healthy manner that supports your well-being rather than harming it. Art, writing, and other creative outlets can be a powerful force in recovery. However, these outlets should be harnessed under the guidance of a mental health professional so their benefits can enhance structured therapy and/or medication like anti-depressants or mood stabilizers. The role of community in suicide prevention Support can take many forms, from suicide prevention organizations and support groups to simply being there for someone in need. By building a community that is educated on the warning signs of suicide and the steps to take to support someone in crisis, we can provide a safety net for those who are in need.  Engaging in open, honest conversations about mental health and suicide removes the stigma that often surrounds these topics. Creating a safe space to talk makes it easier for people to seek help and for those around them to provide support. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that there is hope and help available. Reach out to a mental health professional, call the national suicide prevention hotline at 988, or talk to someone you trust.  Remind yourself: You are not alone — there are people who care and want to help.  Working to stop suicidal thoughts Cerebral is continuing to make strides in improving clinical quality and safety for those experiencing suicidal ideation. With systems in place to connect you to care quickly in crisis situations, not only can unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations be avoided, but meaningful improvements in symptoms can be made in a short period. Of the patients who come to Cerebral considering suicide, half of the individuals stopped having thoughts of suicide within an average of 6 months of treatment. This highlights the powerful impact of seeking support and the real possibility of regaining a sense of hope and purpose. Critical resources 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential support via phone, text, or chat. Crisis Text Line allows one to text with a trained crisis counselor for free by texting TALK to 741-741. Veterans Crisis Line enables veterans to get help via text by sending one to 838255. Vets4Warriors provides free, 24/7 peer support for veterans via phone at 855-838-8255 or by email. The Trevor Project offers immediate crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth via phone at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting START to 678-678. Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
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Mar 12, 2024
Self-care
What a Manic Episode Feels Like
For those who have never experienced it, the phrase 'manic episode' might conjure up images of someone who is simply joyful or hyper. However, the reality of this symptom of bipolar disorder — which is often mischaracterized or misunderstood — is more complex.  For individuals with bipolar disorder, a manic episode can be an intense, all-consuming experience that fluctuates between euphoria and dread. It's a rollercoaster of emotions and behaviors that can significantly impact every aspect of their lives.  If you're seeking to understand or support someone with bipolar disorder, or if you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to comprehend the nuances of a manic episode. Here, we'll walk through what manic episodes might involve, what can trigger them, how to distinguish between the different levels of mania, and what mental health resources can help. Here’s what bipolar patients describe Bipolar patients describe a manic episode as an emotional storm, characterized by intense and sometimes extreme feelings. At its most elevated state, it can involve a sensation of grandiosity, where the individual may: Feel invincible Have unrealistic beliefs about their abilities or financial state Engage in reckless behaviors Mixed with this feeling of extreme self-confidence, self-importance, superiority, and grandeur is often an increased level of irritability and a persistent non-need for sleep. The individual might feel physically unable to stay still or relax.  Some patients describe it as a force that is both unstoppable and overwhelming.  Why this is important: A manic episode is much more than feeling a bit too energetic; it's a profound shift in mood that can impact judgment and behavior in significant ways. Understanding what a bipolar manic episode feels like is one step closer to understanding the entire bipolar experience.  What can trigger a manic episode Several factors can trigger a manic episode for individuals with bipolar disorder. Some of these include: Sleep disruptions A consistent lack of sleep or sudden changes in sleep patterns can be a major trigger. It's not just about the hours — quality and regularity of sleep matter, too. In terms of sleep's role in triggering a manic episode, the impact can be profound and relatively quick. Individuals with bipolar disorder might begin to experience the onset of manic symptoms after just a few nights of significantly reduced sleep. Be careful: For some, even missing a single night's sleep can lead to noticeable changes in mood and energy levels, pushing them closer to mania. Studies suggest that prolonged periods of sleep disruption — such as those experienced during night shifts at work or due to chronic insomnia — can be particularly harmful. These scenarios increase the risk of a manic episode, highlighting the intricate link between sleep patterns and mood regulation in individuals with bipolar disorder. As a first step, we have a helpful resource on how to promote good sleep habits in your daily life. When seeking bipolar treatment, this can also be addressed. Stressful life events Highly stressful events, such as the loss of a loved one, job changes, or relationship issues, often act as catalysts for a manic episode. These situations can cause significant emotional upheaval, forcing an individual's system into overdrive and potentially leading to mania. Even if a significant life change is a positive thing, it can sometimes lead to an episode, too. Substance abuse The use of alcohol, drugs, or even the misuse of prescription medication can significantly disrupt the brain's chemistry. This interference can trigger manic episodes, as individuals with bipolar disorder can be more susceptible to these changes. Alcohol or drug use can also lead to heightened mania or rapid cycling. Changes in medication or treatment plans Sometimes, sudden or significant dosage adjustments in medication or changes in treatment can inadvertently spark a manic episode by disrupting the delicate balance that keeps symptoms in check. This could be due to the body's reaction to new medications, the cessation of a medication, or a negative interaction between different medications. It’s worth noting: Sometimes you could be taking good care of yourself and actively participating in treatment, and you still could experience a manic episode. ​​It's important to keep in mind that managing conditions like bipolar disorder is a continuous process. How long do manic episodes last? The duration of a manic episode can vary greatly from person to person. On average, an episode can last for several weeks or even months if left untreated. However, some individuals may experience shorter episodes while others may cycle between mania and depression in rapid succession, known as rapid cycling. The length and intensity of each manic episode are unique to the individual and depend on various factors, including bipolar treatment adherence and environmental influences. If you’re experiencing one, it's essential to monitor and track your symptoms to determine its length and severity. This information can help you develop an effective treatment plan with your mental healthcare provider. Helpful tools: You can use this mood tracker and/or symptom tracker from the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance to easily document your feelings and experiences.  Friends, family, and those supporting an individual with bipolar disorder need to remember to be patient, as it can take time for the symptoms of mania to subside. Signs & symptoms of mania Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a manic episode is crucial for early intervention and management. Here are some common features: Exhibiting extremely high levels of energy: People in a manic state may seem to be in perpetual motion, unable to sit still, and may jump from one activity to another. Experiencing racing thoughts: Mania can be characterized by a rapid, disjointed thought process that can make concentration difficult and lead to impulsivity. Changing speech patterns: A person may speak rapidly and incessantly, sometimes even to the point of incoherence. They may also interrupt others more and have a shorter temper. Not needing to rest: A reduced need for sleep is a hallmark of mania, as one may feel confident that they can function fully on limited or no sleep. Engaging in risky and impulsive behaviors: Manic individuals often behave in ways they wouldn’t ordinarily consider, such as excessively spending, gambling, participating in risky sexual behaviors, and abusing substances. Experiencing psychosis: In severe cases, mania can lead to a break from reality, which can present as hallucinations and/or delusions. The importance of recognizing the triggers and symptoms A manic episode is much more complex than simply being in a good mood or feeling high energy levels. It involves intense and sometimes extreme emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns that dramatically impact daily life. By understanding the triggers and characteristics of a manic episode, individuals with bipolar disorder and their loved ones can better recognize and manage the symptoms. Why this is important: Seeking professional help is crucial in managing bipolar disorder, as it is a lifelong condition that requires proper treatment and support.  With the right mental health resources and understanding, individuals with bipolar disorder can learn to navigate manic episodes to lead a more stable and fulfilling life. Hypomania vs. mania Hypomania is often described as a ‘lesser’ form of mania. While the symptoms — increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and racing thoughts — are similar to those of mania, they are less extreme.  People in a hypomanic state can often function at a higher level than normal and may even find it to be a productive or enjoyable experience.   Coming down from a manic episode The end of a manic episode can be as distressing as the episode itself. Sudden transitions from intense energy and productivity to normalcy or depression are jarring.  This comedown phase — called the 'crash' — is marked by a drastic change in mood. The heightened self-esteem and self-importance associated with mania can give way to deep feelings of guilt and despair.  It’s at this vulnerable time that individuals are most at risk for suicide or self-harm and, therefore, require close observation and support. If you or someone you know is thinking about acting on suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.  Call 911 if you’re having a mental health emergency. Text HOME to 741-741 if you're emotionally distressed and need immediate support. Call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Use this resource to become prepared: Addressing Suicidal Thoughts: A Manual for Suicide Prevention Common misconceptions about mania Misconceptions about bipolar disorder and mania can lead to stigma and undermine the real challenges faced by those with the condition. It’s always a euphoric experience While euphoria can be a part of it, many people experience irritability, agitation, and a sense of 'mixed mania,' which combines features of mania with symptoms of depression. Depression and mania can’t be experienced together Many people with bipolar disorder experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of both mania and depression coincide. This can be a particularly dangerous time for individuals, as they may have the energy of mania but the negative thoughts and ideations from depression. Why understanding the truth matters: By acknowledging the realities of bipolar disorder, we can create a more empathetic and informed community that’s better equipped to provide the understanding and mental health resources needed to support those with this condition. Bipolar mental health resources If you or someone close to you is dealing with bipolar disorder, seeking assistance is a crucial step toward well-being. Managing bipolar symptoms requires comprehensive support systems and professional interventions, including: Professional therapy, which provides a structured environment to discuss experiences and develop strategies for managing episodes.  Medication management is vital, as it can stabilize mood and prevent episodes from becoming more severe. Support groups, whether online or in-person, create a community of understanding and shared experiences, offering comfort and practical advice.  Emergency psychiatric services or a crisis hotline may be needed in cases where symptoms escalate quickly. Effective treatment typically involves a dual approach: medication to stabilize mood swings and psychotherapy, which may include talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other behavioral therapies. Bipolar treatment is effective: According to the National Advisory Mental Health Council, the treatment success rate is a noteworthy 80% for bipolar disorder. We offer a convenient solution, providing an online evaluation for bipolar I and bipolar II, medication prescriptions for treatment if indicated and accepted, and delivering access to trained therapists and care counselors for cognitive behavioral interventions. With Cerebral, you can get both forms of treatment from one resource — all without ever having to leave home.  We recognize that an essential aspect of managing bipolar disorder involves establishing a consistent daily routine. This includes strategies for building healthy habits like eating a balanced diet, regularly exercising, and getting good sleep. It’s really important to take your medication as agreed to manage your condition. If you're on medication, make sure to talk openly with your care team if you have any concerns or questions.  We know that getting help for bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, both in practical terms and financially. At Cerebral, we're committed to making quality care more accessible and affordable. If you're thinking about seeking treatment for bipolar disorder online, we invite you to start with a free emotional assessment. Image via Freepik and Freepik on Freepik.
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Call 911

If you’re having a mental
health emergency

Text Home to 741-741

If you're in emotional distress and
need immediate support

Call 988

For National Suicide
Prevention Hotline