Mesa, Arizona’s Preferred Bipolar Disorder Hospital

Everyone experiences highs and lows in their life. However, if someone has mood swings that last for days, weeks, or months and significantly impact their life, they might be suffering from bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can typically be classified into three main types, depending on the specific symptoms someone is experiencing. These types of bipolar disorder are defined as follows:  

• Bipolar I disorder: People who have bipolar I disorder experience manic episodes that last for at least seven days or have manic symptoms that are so severe that immediate hospital care is needed. These manic episodes are typically followed by depressive episodes, which typically last around two weeks.  
• Bipolar II disorder: This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are unlike the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of bipolar I disorder. Hypomania is a milder form of mania, and while it can affect functioning, it is not as extreme as mania and often does not require hospitalization. People who have bipolar II disorder often experience more depressive episodes than hypomanic episodes. 
• Cyclothymic disorder (cyclothymia): This is the mildest form of bipolar disorder. People who suffer from cyclothymic disorder have episodes of hypomania and mild depression for at least two years. These mood swings are less severe than those experienced with bipolar I and II disorder but can still significantly impact someone’s daily life and functioning. 

Treatment for bipolar disorder often includes a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and therapy. If you or someone you love is suffering from bipolar disorder, consider reaching out for help at a treatment center like Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital. Our team of professionals is specially trained in caring for adolescents, adults, and older adults who are struggling with bipolar disorder. 

Every person’s experience with bipolar disorder is different, and symptoms can overlap between types and vary in severity. Symptoms of bipolar disorder typically fall into two categories: manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. 

Signs and symptoms of mania or hypomania can include: 

• Elevated mood 
• Increased energy 
• Difficulty sleeping or decreased need for sleep 
• Rapid speech 
• Racing thoughts 
• Engaging in risky behaviors, such as excessive spending or reckless driving 
• Substance use 
• Irritability 
• Inflated sense of self-esteem 

Signs and symptoms of depressive episodes can include: 

• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness 
• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed 
• Lack of appetite 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Feeling worthless and guilty 
• Sleeping too much or too little 
• Fatigue and low energy 
• Suicidal ideation 
• Self-harm 

If you are exhibiting any of these signs or experiencing symptoms of mania, hypomania, or a depressive episode, we encourage you to contact us. You do not have to continue suffering from bipolar disorder. Help is available today. 

Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally, and the average age of onset is 25. However, bipolar disorder symptoms can also develop in adolescence and childhood. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) report the following statistics on bipolar disorder in the U.S.: 

• 2.8% of people have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. 
• 4.4% of adults experience symptoms of bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. 
• 82.9% of people who have bipolar disorder have serious impairment in daily functioning. 
• Adolescent females suffer from bipolar disorder at a higher rate than adolescent males. 

If someone does not receive treatment for bipolar disorder, they are at risk for suffering from an array of unpleasant effects, which may include: 

• Severe mood swings: Without treatment, the episodes associated with bipolar disorder can become more extreme and frequent. These mood swings can lead to more profound periods of depression and mania and make it difficult for an individual to maintain stability in their daily life. 
• Impaired relationships: When someone has bipolar disorder, they might display erratic and unpredictable behavior that can impact their relationships with friends and family. These impaired relationships can lead to social isolation and further exacerbate mental health challenges. 
• Poor job and school performance: The highs and lows of bipolar disorder can significantly impact a person’s performance at work or school. Someone might have increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, difficulty maintaining focus, and an inability to meet their responsibilities. 
• Increased risk for substance use: Many people who have untreated bipolar disorder turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate. This can lead to addiction, worsening of bipolar disorder symptoms, and additional health problems. 
• Financial problems: If someone is in the midst of a manic episode, they may spend money recklessly. This can lead to significant debt and financial instability. 
• Impaired physical health: Untreated bipolar disorder can cause someone to develop physical health problems, often as a result of poor lifestyle choices and neglect of personal health. Health problems may include migraines, obesity, and heart disease. 
• Increased risk for suicide: One of the most severe consequences of untreated bipolar disorder is an increased risk for suicide. Depressive episodes can bring about feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. 

The effects of untreated bipolar disorder can be devastating. By receiving bipolar disorder treatment, someone can learn to manage the symptoms they have been struggling with and greatly improve their quality of life. At our inpatient hospital near Phoenix, patients can learn more about bipolar disorder and make strides toward a healthier future. 

At Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital, we provide treatment for adolescents, adults, and seniors who are struggling with bipolar disorder. We offer inpatient treatment in a safe and secure environment where patients can stabilize and learn how to manage their symptoms.  

Bipolar disorder treatment at our hospital looks different for each patient. However, most people’s treatment plans include a combination of the following therapies and services: 

• Medication management services: Medications are commonly used in bipolar disorder treatment. If your care plan includes medication, you can expect to meet with our psychiatrists, registered nurses (RNs), and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to receive medication management services. 
• Basic medical care: Each patient participates in a comprehensive medical assessment upon admission to our hospital. Patients can receive basic medical care throughout their stay, if needed.  
• Detoxification services: At our hospital, we are able to provide medically monitored detox for patients who are struggling with substance use disorders and need to rid their bodies of harmful substances. We employ doctors and nurses who are specially trained to help patients safely and comfortably go through withdrawal from drugs and alcohol. Patients can participate in regular therapeutic programming during detox if they are able. 
• Group therapy: Patients typically take part in four group therapy sessions each day. Licensed therapists lead these groups and guide discussions on topics pertaining to bipolar disorder. In groups, participants can share their experiences and receive encouragement from their peers. 
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This therapy method can help patients who have bipolar disorder identify and change thought patterns and behaviors that negatively impact their lives. 

At Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital, patients who have bipolar disorder have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of behavioral health and medical professionals, which may include psychiatrists, social workers, counselors, nurses, and more. Patients collaborate with these professionals to develop individualized treatment plans that are designed to comprehensively address their needs. 

We believe that receiving treatment for a mental health concern like bipolar disorder can be life-changing. Our newly constructed, state-of-the-art facility boasts safe and secure patient rooms, spacious outdoor courtyards, and plenty of natural light. Patients can benefit from the expertise of empathetic and qualified professionals who deliver evidence-based therapies and provide comprehensive discharge planning. In our inpatient programs, adolescents ages 11-17 and adults age 18 and older who have bipolar disorder can receive the focused care they need to thrive. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder, we encourage you to reach out to our facility today. Our knowledgeable admissions coordinators can answer your questions and help you determine the most beneficial level of care for your needs. At our hospital, we take pride in our diverse treatment options for adolescents, adults, and older adults who have mental health disorders and addiction concerns. Our dedicated team is passionate about helping people of all ages achieve lasting healing. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Agave Ridge Behavioral Hospital.