Bipolar Disorder
Access our treatment and programs to manage your Bipolar Disorder and stay well.
About Bipolar Disorder
Learn about the signs, symptoms and causes of bipolar disorder.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Developing targeted treatments for the different types of bipolar is essential, to address episode management and patient support. A better understanding is a great first step towards getting help. Your doctor will diagnose you depending on your experience of bipolar moods and the symptoms you present.
Some common diagnoses include:
Type 1
This type of bipolar disorder involves periods of severe mood episodes ranging from both mania to depression.
Type 2
This type of bipolar disorder consists of a milder form of mood elevation, with less extreme episodes (called hypomania) that alternate with episodes of significant depression.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is diagnosed when brief periods of both hypomania and depression occur, although they aren’t as extensive or as long-lasting as the symptoms in full hypomanic or depressive episodes.
Causes of Bipolar Disorder
Although the exact cause isn’t entirely known, genetic and environmental factors, as well as brain chemistry do play a role in the onset and progression of bipolar disorder.
If you are vulnerable to bipolar disorder, factors like stress, life events, substance misuse, and lack of sleep may also prompt the onset of a mood episode.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder are experienced differently between patients, depending on personal circumstances and the type of condition.
It is important to understand that some people with bipolar disorder can experience a less severe form of mania, called hypomania. The manic features of hypomania aren’t severe enough to impair a person’s daily life, but they can lead you to be more sociable or productive than usual. Others will experience mixed mood states where both depressive and manic symptoms exist together.
Signs of a manic episode may include:
- Feeling overly upbeat or outgoing
- Being easily distracted
- Feeling overly elated, happy, or euphoric
- Racing thoughts or speech
- Taking on too many projects or unrealistic goal setting
- Feelings of invincibility
- Inflated self-esteem
- Restlessness
- Boundless energy levels
- Irritability or aggression
- Increased sex drive
- Impulsive or risky behaviour (spending sprees, gambling, poor investments, unsafe sex, or substance misuse)
Signs of a depressive episode may include:
- Frequent crying or teariness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or emptiness
- Lack of motivation
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Forgetfulness or inability to recall memories
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Suicidal thoughts, planning or attempts
- Anxiety
- Delusions or detachment from reality
- Lack of pleasure of interest in usual activities
- Decreased sex drive
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Join our programs for the treatment of bipolar disorder on the Gold Coast.
Day Programs
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Mood and Anxiety Disorders
The program provides a structured application of proven CBT processes, and is useful for people who want greater control over their depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. It includes focused cognitive restructuring activities, know to help manage mood disorders and lessen the severity and duration of episodes. The behavioural component helps patients re-engage with living in helpful ways.
Project Art
Sometimes words are not enough and art therapy provides the opportunity to express one’s self more fully through a range of different art materials and activities. People who find creative activities beneficial or have an interest in finding new ways to express themselves and explore problems creatively are encouraged to attend this program.
R.E.A.C.H. Support Group
This eight week program is for people living with depression or bipolar disorder. It is based on the principles of Responsibility, Education, Acceptance, Connection and Hope. The program, designed by the Black Dog Institute, aims to help you manage your illness and stay well.
Resources for Bipolar Disorder
Useful resources to help people manage their bipolar disorder.
Beyondblue
An independent, not-for-profit organisation working to increase awareness and understanding of anxiety and depression in Australia and to reduce the associated stigma.
Black Dog Institute
Information on symptoms, treatment and prevention of depression and bipolar disorder.
Headspace
National youth mental health foundation dedicated to improving the wellbeing of young Australians.
Head to Health
Australian Government online mental health resources.
Lifeline
A national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
SANE Australia
Information about mental illness, treatments, where to go for support and help carers.