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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood, leaving many to struggle with the complexities of their condition in silence. The emotional rollercoaster of mania and depression can significantly affect how a person with bipolar thinks, feels, and interacts with the world around them. But what does it truly feel like to live with bipolar disorder? How does a person with bipolar perceive reality, make decisions, or even experience everyday life?
Let’s take a deeper dive into the cognitive and emotional landscape of someone living with bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, oscillating between periods of intense high energy (mania or hypomania) and deep emotional lows (depression). These mood shifts are not merely feelings of happiness or sadness; they represent a profound alteration in how the mind functions.
During manic or hypomanic episodes, individuals may experience an overwhelming sense of euphoria, high energy, and grandiosity. Thoughts race rapidly—sometimes to the point where it’s hard to keep up. Ideas come and go quickly, and the person might feel like they are "on top of the world." There can be a sense of invincibility, a belief that anything is possible, leading to impulsive decisions, risky behaviors, or a lack of judgment.
Conversely, during depressive episodes, the cognitive shifts are starkly different. Thoughts become clouded, slow, and often self-critical. A person might feel paralyzed by their own mind, with pervasive feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and despair. These episodes can make even the simplest tasks seem monumental, as if every action requires an unbearable amount of effort. Thoughts are dominated by negativity, and it’s hard to see any possibility for change or improvement.
Bipolar disorder doesn't only affect emotions—it also interferes with cognitive functions. A person in a manic phase might struggle with maintaining focus because their thoughts are constantly jumping from one idea to the next. This can make it hard to complete tasks or engage in meaningful conversation, as they might feel distracted or overwhelmed by their racing thoughts.
On the other hand, depressive episodes often cause cognitive fog, where concentration and memory are impaired. The mind becomes lethargic, and focusing on work or personal relationships may seem impossible. Decision-making can become clouded, and even minor decisions may feel monumental. Self-doubt and the inability to trust one’s judgment are common.
A person with bipolar disorder can experience significant shifts in how they view themselves. During manic or hypomanic episodes, they may feel overly confident or even invulnerable. This can lead to a sense of grandeur or a distorted view of one’s abilities. They may engage in risky behaviors, believing they’re immune to negative outcomes.
When the depression sets in, the contrast is stark. The individual may view themselves through a lens of self-loathing and worthlessness. Thoughts can become highly negative, with feelings of inadequacy overwhelming their sense of identity. It's as though the highs and lows are pulling them in opposite directions, making it difficult to maintain a stable sense of self.
The way someone with bipolar disorder thinks can affect their relationships with others. In manic phases, they may become overly talkative, excessively confident, or even confrontational. They might feel intensely connected to others, but this can come across as overwhelming, especially to friends, family, or partners who don't fully understand what’s happening.
In depressive episodes, social withdrawal and emotional distance are common. A person may find it hard to interact with others or even respond to messages and calls. They may push people away, not out of malice, but because they feel emotionally drained or disconnected from the world around them.
The challenge of these emotional shifts is that they can create confusion for loved ones. One day, a person with bipolar disorder may be full of life and energy, and the next, they might be withdrawn and despondent. This inconsistency can be difficult for others to navigate and often leaves the individual feeling misunderstood.
One of the most challenging aspects of bipolar disorder is the unpredictability of the mood swings. A person with bipolar disorder may try to maintain a sense of stability, but the highs and lows can feel like an uncontrollable rollercoaster. The fear of the next episode, whether manic or depressive, looms large.
For many, the process of managing bipolar disorder involves constant monitoring of their moods, taking medication as prescribed, attending therapy, and trying to build routines that can help mitigate extreme shifts. But even with treatment, the mental and emotional challenges persist. It’s a delicate balance between holding on to the good moments during manic episodes and navigating the heavy weight of depressive spells.
For those who live with bipolar disorder, the inner experience of the illness can be exhausting and isolating. It's crucial for friends, family, and society to develop empathy and understanding. Recognizing that a person with bipolar disorder doesn’t “choose” their mood swings or erratic thoughts can help reduce stigma and promote better support systems.
Bipolar disorder is not simply about feeling happy or sad; it’s a complex mental health condition that affects the way a person experiences the world on a cognitive, emotional, and social level. By understanding how bipolar disorder shapes the way people think, we can foster more compassion and support for those living with the condition.
Bipolar disorder doesn’t define a person; it’s just one part of their experience. Understanding the way someone with bipolar thinks offers an opportunity for greater empathy and compassion. It can also help break down the stigma surrounding mental illness, encouraging people to seek help and support when they need it most.
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of bipolar disorder, it’s essential to reach out for professional help. With the right treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, even as they navigate the complexities of their mental health
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, intensive outpatient program, teen therapy, and a DBT-Self Guided Program. All our sessions are therapist-led, held virtually, and meet over video chat at the same time each week. All our sessions are therapist-led and are held virtually and meet over video chat at the same time each week. For group therapy, we have groups on many topics including Dialectical Behavior Therapy "DBT", Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Anger Management, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Narcissistic Abuse, Self-Compassion, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Substance Abuse, Supporting A Loved one with BPD, among others. Each group is led by a licensed therapist that typically has over a decade of experience treating a wide range of specialties, and the group meets at the same time each week for an hour with the same members and therapist.
As reported by our members, 70% experienced significant progress within 8 weeks, including reduced anxiety & depression symptoms.
Our care coordinators can help assist you to craft the perfect treatment plan for you that's tailored to your needs. We provide speedy matches to quality care, and also provide the flexibility to switch your therapist or group at anytime ensuring that you're always meeting with the right therapist fit at a time that's convenient for your schedule. Whatever type of therapy you’re seeking, Grouport offers a range of options to suit your schedule and preferences. Explore our programs to find the support you need. If you need help finding the right type of therapy, schedule a free call with a care coordinator here.
We offer DBT group therapy online to improve emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, & interpersonal skills. Get effective and affordable treatment.
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