Bipolar Disorder
Could you have bipolar disease and not realize that this condition is present in your life? While this is a possibility, please keep in mind that many people toss the term ‘bipolar’ around without even understanding what this type of problem involves. The terms bipolar and manic-depressive are interchangeable and refer to the same type of mental health issues.
It is true that there are many individuals who suffer from bipolar disease, but this is not a condition that can be casually diagnosed. In fact it is a disservice when someone tauntingly suggests that someone is going through a manic phase simply because they are happy and energetic.
There are some people who may incorrectly use the term ‘cycling’? when they notice the quick temper of an individual who has a low frustration threshold or anger management issues. The inference is that their mood swings and anger are related to bipolar issues. Individuals with ADD have often erroneously been assumed to have bipolar issues when this condition is note even present.
Bipolar disease is a very real, and unique, condition that creates rapid shifts in the brain’s normal chemistry. These shifts are very different from those normal mood changes that most people experience. A person with bipolar disease will undergo a roller coaster ride that is composed of emotional ups and downs.
A person who is bipolar will have no control of these mood swings, and do not realize that that their behaviors are far more intense than normal. The highs they experience are a dizzying whirl of euphoric moments and the lows are both depressing and devastating.
With bipolar disease the changes in mood and behavior are usually startling and severe. The symptoms of bipolar disease frequently result in destructive lifestyles, broken relationships, depression, suicide attempts and other woes.
Bipolar symptoms are generally noted at a fairly early age. Up to 50% of affected individuals will exhibit typical symptoms of this condition while in their late teens or during their early twenties. Bipolar disorders can appear for the first time during the middle-aged years, but this is far less common.
About 50% of all bipolar cases are triggered prior to age 25, and some individuals are even diagnosed as children.
Is there a cure for bipolar disease?
It is important that people understand that bipolar disorder is a chronic health problem. While there are no permanent cures for this condition, today there are advances that allow bipolar disorders to be treated, managed and controlled.
If you are looking for help, whether for yourself or a loved one, our psychologists can assist in exploring underlying issues through therapy. Please visit our practitioners’ page to find out more, or call (03) 9820-5577 for an appointment or to make enquiries.
Psychologists at the Centre for Emotion Focused Practice
Rebecca Carlson
Registered Psychologist & Clinical Registrar
I work to create strong, supportive relationships, which allow people to explore their experiences and struggles in a safe and non-judgmental space. I provide intervention that is collaborative and tailored to each person’s individual goals.
Laura Knox
Psychologist
I am a registered psychologist with an interest in providing high-quality therapeutic care in a safe and supportive environment. I work collaboratively with people to help address life stressors, improve psychological health and develop a more fulfilling life.
Susanne Goldie
Psychologist
I work with a wide range of individuals in a non-judgemental, holistic way to understand each person’s unique circumstances and support them in achieving their goals. I work with people of all ages.
Peter Baldwin, PH.D.
Registered Psychologist & Clinical Psychology Registrar
My therapeutic approach is warm and collaborative (with some occasional humour along the way). I work together with each client to develop a shared understanding of their situation and what they would like to get out of therapy.
Leisa Thompson
Counselling Psychologist
Warm and caring therapist who has worked with individuals and couples for over 20 years. I work collaboratively with people to create a therapeutic intervention to help them move towards the life they want.
Joan Hamilton Roberts
Counselling Psychologist & Psychodramatist
I have worked with individuals & couples for over 20 years. I help people rediscover forgotten perspectives & create new visions.
Geoff Newbegin
Counselling Psychologist & Psychotherapist
I am an experienced counsellor and psychologist with over 15 years of experience, which includes a wide range of clinical experience.
Christine Hayes
Educational and Developmental Psychologist
I provide psychological therapy services for adults, including parents, and for adolescents.
Saturday Appointments
Novi Sutanto
Psychologist
I believe in using curiosity and compassion when connecting with people, both inside, and out of, the therapy room.
Saturday Appointments
Matt Borowik
Psychologist
I am a supportive and compassionate person who believes that openness, collaboration and human connection is essential to positive outcomes in therapy.