Dealing with a Mixed State when You Have Bipolar Disorder

I have dealt with Bipolar Disorder for almost twelve years, the symptoms started when I was a young teenager. I wasn't diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder however, until I was almost twenty. I am what's known as a "rapid cycling" Bipolar. Meaning that I cycle back and forth very quickly between manic and depressive episodes. I also deal with what is termed a "mixed state" occasionally. A "mixed state", within the confines of Bipolar Disorder (or, Manic Depression) is where symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously.

Symptoms of Mania include; A "euphoria" or a rage, rapid thought processes, rapid speech, sleeping little- if at all, and lack of impulse control.

Symptoms of Depression include; An extended period of sadness, feelings of guilt or worry over mundane things, excessive sleeping or sleeplessness, lethargy, thoughts or attempts of suicide and no interest in normally fun activities.

Bipolar Disorder, also known as Manic Depression, is a severe mental illness. There hasn't been a determination as to what exactly causes Bipolar Disorder, although the generally accepted explanation is that it's primarily caused by chemical imbalance in the brain. There are some schools of thought which lean towards the idea that Bipolar Disorder can be triggered by a stressful even when there is a genetic predisposition towards Bipolar Disorder or other mental disorders.

There is no cure for Bipolar Disorder, but with the proper support or therapy, and medication, it can be managed and those dealing with it can live productive, positive lives. Rapid cycling is when episodes alternating between mania and depression occur more than four times in a twelve-month period. Rapid cycling and a "mixed state" can often be confused for one another, if a person is cycling so rapidly that they go into mania and depression several times in one day.

I know for myself, whenever I am dealing with a "mixed state", I am unable to function during the "normal" activities and happenings of daily life. If I am going through a mixed state, I tend to develop something similar to "sensory overload" and end up withdrawing into myself, sometimes hiding in a room alone, just to stop some of the rapid changes in mood. This is not the best way to deal with it, because it tends to not be effective for me.

The best answer so far that I've found when dealing with my Bipolar Disorder, more specifically- a mixed state, is to make sure that I eat right, get plenty of fluids, try to rest when I can, and keep phone numbers to local emergency services or the local crisis hot-line nearby. It is imperative to know the danger signs of depression and mania. Left untreated for too long, depressive episodes can cause suicidal thoughts or tendencies- and mania can cause a person to actually hallucinate or have psychotic episodes.

When dealing with Bipolar Disorder, whether rapid cycling or not, along with the "mixed state", it's important to keep a support system around- whether you are the person suffering from Bipolar Disorder or it's a loved one. Regular appointments with a psychiatrist and your medical doctor will help maintain your physical health, help keep your medications at the proper dose, and also help you be more aware of the warning signs of dangerous shifts in mood.

It's also equally important to have proper nutrition, a good sleep schedule, exercise regularly, and to be able to keep to a normal "routine." If you are Bipolar, and are especially prone to mixed states, the best idea out there is to make sure you avoid any substances that can alter moods (such as illicit drugs and alcohol), and to make sure that you have a crisis plan in place that your family members and friends are aware of.

Regular counseling or other behavioral therapy is also a must for anyone suffering from Bipolar Disorder, or one with recurring mixed states. There's no shame in having Bipolar Disorder, and there's not shame in seeking help. It's a severe mental disorder that is caused by physical issues. If you are having rapid cycling or are in a mixed state, it's always a good idea to call your doctor or have yourself evaluated at your nearest Emergency Room or Mental Health Center. Making sure to have a plan in place for Crisis Support, Suicidal Tendencies, etc is extremely important, and could make the difference between life or death.

I have finally accepted that I will never be able to function without Bipolar Medications, and that I will always have to be aware of my mood cycles and pay attention whenever I am dealing with a mixed state. To do otherwise would endanger myself, possibly those around me, and I wouldn't be able to live a "normal", happy, productive life. Keep a crisis plan in place, rely on the support of family and friends, take good care of your physical health, and take it one day at a time.