Bipolar Disorder: Causes and Symptoms
Causes of Bipolar Disorder
- Family history of bipolar disorder
- Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine
- Traumatic or stressful life events
- Periods of high stress or substance abuse
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, it’s believed that a combination of these factors disrupts mood regulation mechanisms in the brain.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Symptoms of Mania/Hypomania:
- Increased energy, activity, or restlessness
- Excessively elevated or irritable mood
- Overconfidence or grandiosity
- Rapid speech and racing thoughts
- Impulsivity and poor decision-making
- Decreased need for sleep
Symptoms of Depression:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Symptoms can significantly impair an individual’s ability to function at work, at home, and in social settings.
Complications of Untreated Bipolar Disorder
- Strained personal relationships
- Poor work or school performance
- Substance abuse
- Legal and financial issues
- Increased risk of self-harm and suicide
- Physical health problems linked to stress and lifestyle
Seeking timely and effective treatment is crucial for stabilizing moods and improving quality of life.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Bipolar Disorder Treatment
At SoCal Empowered of Idaho, our multidisciplinary team designs personalized treatment plans to meet each client’s specific needs, ensuring the highest chance of long-term recovery and stability.
Therapies Used in Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Psychoeducation
Family Therapy
Holistic Therapies
Medication Options for Bipolar Disorder Management
- Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium)
- Antipsychotic medications (e.g., olanzapine, quetiapine)
- Antidepressants (used cautiously and usually with a mood stabilizer)
Your healthcare provider will work closely with you to find the right combination and dosage to manage symptoms effectively while minimizing side effects.
How Medications Work
Medications for bipolar disorder help stabilize mood swings, prevent episodes of mania or depression, and reduce the severity of symptoms by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Idaho
- 24-hour medical and emotional support
- A highly structured environment to minimize stress and triggers
- Immediate crisis intervention when necessary
- Intensive therapy schedules
Inpatient care is ideal for individuals experiencing severe mood episodes, those with suicidal ideation, or those who require stabilization before transitioning to outpatient care.
Outpatient treatment allows clients to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions. This option suits individuals with milder symptoms or those who have already achieved a degree of stability.
Holistic and Alternative Approaches to Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Our holistic treatment model addresses the mind, body, and spirit. In addition to traditional therapies, we offer:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Enhances emotional regulation and stress reduction
- Yoga and Exercise: Boosts mood and promotes physical health
- Nutrition Counseling: Supports brain health and emotional stability
- Acupuncture: May help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve overall well-being
Art and Music Therapy: Provides creative outlets for emotional expression
Bipolar Disorder and Co-Occurring Disorders: Dual Diagnosis Treatment
- Anxiety disorders
- Substance use disorders
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
At SoCal Empowered of Idaho, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both bipolar disorder and any co-occurring conditions simultaneously for comprehensive, effective care.
How to Find the Right Bipolar Disorder Treatment Center in Idaho
- Evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and psychoeducation
- Individualized treatment plans
- Licensed, experienced mental health professionals
- Access to both medication management and holistic therapies
- A safe, comfortable, and supportive environment
If you live in Idaho, you don’t need to look any further than SoCal Empowered of Idaho in beautiful Idaho Falls.
Types of Bipolar Disorder Treatment Available in Idaho
Intensive Behavioral Therapies
Medication Management
Holistic Therapies
Group Therapy and Peer Support
Relapse Prevention and Aftercare Planning
At SoCal Empowered of Idaho, our comprehensive, whole-person approach ensures that every client receives the tailored, multifaceted care they need not just to stabilize — but to thrive.
Seeking Help for Bipolar Disorder: Next Steps
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder, reaching out for help is the first step toward stability and recovery. SoCal Empowered of Idaho provides a calming, supportive environment where healing is possible.
Contact us today to learn more about our inpatient bipolar disorder treatment program and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.