Bipolar disorder is a confusing mental health condition that is often misunderstood. It is less common than conditions like anxiety. 4% of U.S. adults will be diagnosed with bipolar disorder at some point in their life. Out of this 4%, an estimated 82% had serious impairment with their condition – including memory and concentration impairment.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is known for its extreme mood shifts, which can affect energy and activity levels. People with this condition experience intense emotional highs, known as manic episodes, and alternating periods of deep depression. The mood swings experienced can be mild but also severe at times, and can interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and quality of life.
There are two types of the disorder, bipolar I and bipolar II. Bipolar I is categorized as manic episodes that last for at least seven days or are severe enough that an individual needs immediate medical care. Bipolar II is less severe, and the manic episodes are shorter and less intense. Cyclothymic disorder is a milder condition relating to bipolar disorder that includes manic and depressive episodes that are not as intense and do not last very long.
Common Thought Patterns During a Manic Episode
Manic episodes are characterized by racing thoughts and spontaneous actions. During a manic episode with bipolar disorder may have a spotty train of thought and flighty ideas. They may jump from one strain of consciousness to another rapidly, with little consistency.
Thought patterns during a manic episode may be risky and put the individual and others at risk. This may include poor financial choices like binge shopping, alcohol or drug use, or other risky behaviors like drinking and driving. An individual’s thought process during a manic episode may be rapidly altered.
How the Brain Works During Depressive Episodes
During a depressive episode, one’s brain may be slower and functioning at a reduced speed. The mentality may be depressed, with negative thoughts and potentially suicidal thoughts or actions. It may be hard to concentrate or find motivation to do things that once brought on excitement. This puts people with bipolar disorder at risk of isolating themselves and pulling away from friends, family, and other loved ones.
Bipolar disorder makes people with the condition feel emotions on a heightened level, including depressive episodes. Depressive episodes may be hard to get out of, and often require medication management to regulate.
Bipolar Disorder’s Impact on Concentration & Memory
Bipolar disorder can have a negative impact on the brain’s ability to concentrate. It may be harder to recall both simple and important things due to attention span issues. When the mind is racing back and forth from thought to thought, it’s incredibly hard to focus.
Factors that contribute to concentration and memory issues with bipolar disorder include:
- Racing thoughts during a heightened, or manic, phase
- Anxiety
- Psychosis, including delusions and hallucinations
There are many different factors that contribute to memory issues with bipolar disorder. The effects of bipolar disorder on memory and concentration will ultimately depend on the type of bipolar that has been diagnosed and each person’s unique story. As the condition becomes more extreme, the lack of ability to focus and concentrate becomes more noticeable.
Find Bipolar Disorder Treatment Near You
Bipolar disorder is so much more than mania and depression, it is a complex condition that researchers are still learning about each day. With only 4% of the U.S. population experiencing bipolar disorder, it may feel isolating to be diagnosed with the condition. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of bipolar disorder or seems to be having disordered thinking, memory, and concentration abilities – it may be time to seek mental health treatment.
At Alter Behavioral Health, we offer four different levels of care so that everyone can get treatment that suits them best. Our facility offers crisis stabilization, residential programs, as well as partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient treatment. Whether you are looking to commit to a longer-term residential treatment program or only have the ability to do an outpatient weekday schedule, we have a range of programs available. Give us a call and start living life with more clarity.
About Alter
Alter is a behavioral healthcare provider that specializes in evidence-based clinical treatment approaches. We provide a wide range of programs for adults and families experiencing mental health conditions including schizophrenia, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, substance abuse, and more. This is done through client-centered care for a full-continuum of treatment. We serve the entire U.S. population from our revolutionary locations throughout sunny Southern California. Whether an individual needs 24/7 care or wants an outpatient program – we are there to guide every step of the journey. For more information, give us a call at (877) 613-9776 or visit our website at alterbehavioralhealth.com.
