Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is typically characterised by episodes of depression, mania, or hypomania. Some people experience clear cycles with stable periods in between, while others may have more rapid or mixed fluctuations.

Symptoms of depressive episodes may include:

• Low mood, hopelessness or feelings of emptiness
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Sleep disturbance
• Changes in appetite
• Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms of manic or hypomanic episodes may include:

• Elevated or irritable mood
• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
• Decreased need for sleep
• Racing thoughts or rapid speech
• Distractibility
• Increased goal-directed activity or restlessness
• Impulsivity, risk-taking, or poor judgement
• In some cases, symptoms of psychosis (e.g. delusions or hallucinations)

Hypomania involves similar symptoms to mania, but they tend to be less severe and do not result in psychotic features or require hospitalisation.

The exact causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood. However, a combination of genetic, neurochemical, environmental and psychological factors is believed to contribute.

These may include:

• Family history of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders
• Neurobiological differences in brain chemistry and function
• Stressful life events or trauma
• Disrupted circadian rhythms (e.g. poor sleep hygiene or shift work)
• Substance use
• Certain personality traits (e.g. sensitivity to stimuli or strong emotional reactivity)

Episodes may be triggered by stress, sleep disruption, or changes in lifestyle, even when mood has previously been stable.

There are several subtypes of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar I Disorder – defined by at least one manic episode, often with episodes of major depression.
  
• Bipolar II Disorder – involves at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, but no full manic episodes.
  
• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia) – a milder pattern involving frequent hypomanic and depressive symptoms that do not meet the criteria for full episodes.

Each person’s experience of bipolar disorder is unique, and treatment should be tailored to their individual pattern of symptoms and triggers.

Managing bipolar disorder involves both preventative strategies and active interventions during high-risk times. Useful strategies include:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and daily routine
• Monitoring your mood and recognising early warning signs
• Avoiding substance use
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Building a strong support network
• Working with mental health professionals to manage symptoms and reduce relapse risk

Education and self-awareness are essential. Understanding the condition helps you make informed decisions about treatment and manage the disorder more effectively over time.

At Seed Psychology, our team provides warm, knowledgeable and evidence-based support to help you live well with bipolar disorder.

Our psychologists can assist with:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – to explore patterns of thought and behaviour that contribute to mood instability

• Psychoeducation – to build understanding of bipolar disorder and its management

• Emotion regulation and relapse prevention strategies

• Monitoring mood and recognising early warning signs

• Family therapy – where appropriate, to support loved ones in understanding and responding to bipolar symptoms

We work collaboratively with your psychiatrist or GP as part of a multidisciplinary care plan. Therapy is a vital complement to medical treatment—helping you gain insight, manage mood swings, and improve your relationships and quality of life.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with bipolar disorder, Seed Psychology is here to help.

Book an appointment with one of our experienced psychologists at our Brunswick East clinic or via telehealth across Australia.