Bipolar disorder can be extremely difficult to diagnose correctly in some individuals. The symptoms one person displays for bipolar disorder may look very different than how another person displays symptoms or struggles. Many people receive the wrong diagnosis or no diagnosis at all. Often individuals receive a diagnosis of depression or end up seeing multiple professionals before receiving the correct diagnosis. This can be very problematic to manage symptoms and understand what you are actually feeling. Another complication is that many people suffering from bipolar disorder also have a substance abuse problem.
Managing Symptoms
With an undiagnosed substance abuse problem, it can be extremely challenging to manage bipolar disorder mood symptoms. Substance abuse can also make it hard to make an accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder because it may appear that mood swings are caused by substance use. Substance abuse can also make bipolar episodes, both manic and depressive, more severe and recurring. Try to take the time to analyze what you are feeling when you are feeling it, and any other actions that may be contributing to your mental health. This is valuable information that you can speak to a professional about. The more information you can bring forth and explain, the better and more accurate your diagnosis will be.
Treatment
In the past, treatment for addiction and mental health disorders would be completed separately. Individuals would find themselves with multiple professionals and multiple treatment plans. This process just simply did not work. You are one person and everything you are going through is connected and needs to be treated as such. If you have both a substance abuse problem and bipolar disorder, it is important to receive treatment for both at the same time. Both struggles play into the other, so treating them separately does not yield very successful results for most people.
Learning to understand your struggles, emotions, and actions is a process that takes time and energy. Getting the correct diagnosis for what you are experiencing is important. Manypeople suffering from bipolar disorder find it takes time and effort to get the correct diagnosis. Many are also suffering from a substance abuse problem as well. Getting the help you need is important for managing symptoms. You want to be open and honest about everything you are experiencing so that your treatment plan can include all of your struggles and challenges. Here at The Guest House we are ready to help you with your unique situation with a program that is tailored to you and your needs. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you at (855) 483-7800.