Managing Bipolar Disorder with a Psychologist in Melbourne

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings that go beyond the usual fluctuations in emotion. These mood changes, known as mood episodes, significantly impact energy levels, activity, thinking, and daily functioning.

People with bipolar disorder experience alternating episodes of mania or hypomania and depression, which can last for days, weeks, or even months. These episodes may occur without a clear trigger and can disrupt work, relationships, and overall well-being.

With the right psychological support, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. At Cova Psychology, our experienced psychologists in Melbourne provide evidence-based therapy to help individuals better understand and manage bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes involve intense emotional highs and heightened energy. Common symptoms include:

• Feeling euphoric, excessively happy, or unusually optimistic
• Increased energy, restlessness, and reduced need for sleep
• Speaking rapidly and experiencing racing thoughts
• Heightened confidence and impulsive decision-making
• Taking on too many projects at once without finishing them
• Engaging in risky behaviour, such as excessive spending or reckless driving

Depressive Episodes

During depressive episodes, individuals experience persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Symptoms often include:

• Overwhelming sadness, emptiness, or despair
• Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Fatigue or lack of motivation
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Many individuals with bipolar disorder also experience co-occurring depression. Our depression treatment services in Melbourne offer therapeutic approaches that can help address both bipolar depression and related mental health concerns.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are different types of bipolar disorder, each defined by the severity and frequency of mood episodes.

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I involves severe manic episodes that last for at least a week and may require hospitalisation or medical intervention. Depressive episodes typically follow, lasting two weeks or more.

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II is marked by hypomanic episodes, which are milder than full manic episodes. Hypomania does not cause severe impairment, but individuals still experience significant depressive episodes that can impact daily life.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymic disorder is a chronic but milder form of bipolar disorder, where individuals experience frequent mood swings between hypomanic and depressive symptoms. These mood shifts do not meet the full criteria for Bipolar I or II but can still interfere with work, relationships, and overall well-being.

The Impact of Bipolar Disorder on Daily Life

Without effective treatment and support, bipolar disorder can significantly disrupt various aspects of life.

• Work and education challenges, including difficulty maintaining focus, managing deadlines, and sustaining performance due to unpredictable mood shifts
• Relationship difficulties due to struggles with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and communication
• Physical health concerns, including irregular sleep patterns, changes in appetite, and increased stress levels
• Self-esteem issues, where the unpredictability of mood swings leads to feelings of frustration, self-doubt, and distress

However, with the right therapy and coping strategies, individuals can develop long-term management techniques that help stabilise mood, improve relationships, and enhance overall well-being.

Psychological Treatment for Bipolar Disorder at Cova Psychology

Effective treatment for bipolar disorder often involves a combination of psychological therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. At Cova Psychology, our Melbourne psychologists offer evidence-based therapies to help individuals manage symptoms and regain stability.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Bipolar Disorder

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective psychological treatments for bipolar disorder. CBT helps individuals:

• Recognise unhelpful thought patterns and reframe them in a balanced way
• Identify early warning signs of mood episodes and develop proactive coping strategies
• Learn emotional regulation techniques to reduce mood instability
• Strengthen problem-solving and resilience-building skills

CBT is particularly beneficial in helping individuals manage the depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for Emotional Regulation

DBT is a structured therapy that focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness techniques. It can be highly effective for individuals who experience intense mood fluctuations and impulsivity.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Long-Term Stability

ACT helps individuals accept difficult emotions rather than trying to suppress them. This approach encourages:

• Focusing on valued life goals rather than being controlled by mood episodes
• Developing psychological flexibility, allowing individuals to function even when facing emotional difficulties
• Reducing avoidance behaviours, which can contribute to the severity of bipolar episodes

Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Mood Stability

Mindfulness techniques can help regulate emotions, manage stress, and reduce reactivity to mood fluctuations. Practices such as guided meditation, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques can support individuals in stabilising their emotional state.

Lifestyle Strategies to Support Bipolar Disorder Management

While therapy plays a crucial role in managing bipolar disorder, individuals can also benefit from lifestyle adjustments that support mood stability and overall well-being.

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule to regulate mood and prevent episodes
• Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a balanced diet to support brain function and emotional stability
• Learning stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises
• Building a strong support system of trusted friends, family members, and therapists

Individuals experiencing major life changes, including pregnancy and parenthood, may find that bipolar symptoms fluctuate in response to hormonal and environmental shifts. Our blog on perinatal mental health explores the importance of psychological support during this time.