Understanding Bipolar Anxiety: Signs, Help, and Hope

Understanding Bipolar Anxiety: Simple Guide for Kids and Adults

Bipolar anxiety can feel confusing and scary. It’s when someone has bipolar disorder and also struggles with anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. These are real mental health conditions, and many people live with them every day.

But guess what? Help is out there. With the right treatment plan, support, and love, life can get better. Let’s explore what bipolar anxiety means and how people can feel more like themselves again.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition where someone’s mood goes up and down a lot. Sometimes, people feel super happy and full of energy. This is called a manic episode or a hypomanic episode.

Other times, they feel very sad or tired. This is called a depressive episode. These mood episodes can make it hard to go to school, work, or do everyday activities.

Bipolar disorder can show up in different ways:

• Bipolar I disorder (big manic phases)
• Bipolar II disorder (less intense manic phases and more depressed mood)
• Cyclothymic disorder (many ups and downs over time)
• Bipolar spectrum disorder (covers other types)

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is when someone feels nervous, scared, or worried a lot. We all get anxious sometimes, but for some people, it’s really hard to stop. This is called an anxiety disorder.

Types of anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (worry about many things)
• Panic disorder (panic attacks with chest pain and fast heartbeat)
• Social anxiety disorder (fear of being around others)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (repeating thoughts or actions)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (fear after a traumatic event)

What Is Bipolar Anxiety?

Bipolar anxiety happens when someone has bipolar disorder and also an anxiety disorder. This is called a comorbid anxiety disorder or anxiety disorder comorbidities. It means both conditions happen together.

Some people with bipolar anxiety may:

• Have big mood swings and lots of anxiety symptoms
• Worry about things they can’t control (uncontrollable worry)
• Feel scared during manic episodes or episodes of depression
• Have trouble in social situations or with daily life

Common Bipolar Anxiety Symptoms

During Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:

• Feeling restless or wired
• Talking really fast
• Racing thoughts
• Excessive worry or panic
• Trouble sleeping
• Acting without thinking

During Depressive Episodes:

• Feeling hopeless or sad
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Avoiding friends and family
• Physical symptoms like headaches or tummy aches
• Thoughts of harm or suicidal ideation

What Causes Bipolar Anxiety?

There is no one cause. But these things can increase the risk:

• Genetic risk (having bipolar parents or family history)
• Traumatic events or tough childhood
• Substance use disorder or alcohol abuse
• Brain changes or neurological disorders
• Big stress from school, work, or family
• Other psychiatric disorders or mental disorders

How Do Doctors Know You Have It?

Doctors use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual from the American Psychiatric Association to look at diagnostic criteria.

They ask questions about:

• How long you’ve had the symptoms
• How the symptoms affect your daily functioning
• If you have both bipolar symptoms and symptoms of anxiety

Sometimes, people need to visit an outpatient mood disorders clinic or talk with a healthcare professional to get an accurate diagnosis.

Why Getting Help Is Important

If bipolar anxiety isn’t treated, it can lead to:

• Trouble at school or work
• Problems with friends or social interaction
• Poor mental functioning or adaptive functioning
• Use of drugs or alcohol
• Harm to self or others

That’s why seeing mental health professionals is super important. A strong healthcare team can help create a good treatment plan.

How Is Bipolar Anxiety Treated?

There is effective treatment for bipolar anxiety! Here’s what can help:

1. Medication

Doctors may give:

• Mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder symptoms
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors for anxiety
• Antidepressant medication (only with mood stabilizers to avoid manic phases)
• Bipolar disorder medications like lithium

Always follow the doctor’s advice. Never stop on your own.

2. Therapy

Different types of therapy help:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – changes negative thoughts
• Behavioral therapy – improves actions and reactions
• Social rhythm therapy – helps with social rhythms and daily schedules
• Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy – uses calm breathing and meditation
• Psychological treatments that match your needs

3. Lifestyle Changes

• Sleep and eat well
• Exercise daily
• Avoid drugs and alcohol misuse
• Try psychosocial rehabilitation programs or work-related programs
• Stick to a routine

4. Support

• Talk with your family or counselor
• Join a group for people with major mood disorder or psychiatric comorbidity
• Practice kindness to yourself

Who Can Help?

You can get help from:

• Mental health therapy clinics
• Psychiatrists and counselors
• Social workers
• School therapists
• Support hotlines
• Clinics that treat bipolar depression and anxiety

If you live in Nashville, this bipolar disorder treatment page can help connect you to support in your area.

Living With Bipolar Anxiety

It’s okay to have lifelong conditions. People with disorders in adulthood, disorders in childhood, or neurodevelopmental disorders can still have happy lives.

Here’s how to keep going:

• Know your bipolar diagnosis
• Talk about your symptoms of depression and anxiety symptoms
• Follow your treatment plan
• Take medicine if needed
• Keep up with daily activities
• Talk to someone you trust

You are not alone. Many people, including study participants in longitudinal studies, show response to treatment over time. You can feel better.

Final Thoughts

Bipolar anxiety can feel like a lot. But you’re not alone. With support, care, and the right treatment plan, people can enjoy a better quality of life.

If you or someone you love has signs of bipolar disorder and anxiety, talk to a doctor or counselor today. Life can get brighter, one step at a time.

FAQs About Bipolar Anxiety

1. Can someone have both bipolar disorder and anxiety?

Yes. Many people have both at the same time. This is called bipolar anxiety or comorbid anxiety.

2. What are signs of bipolar anxiety?

People may have shifts in mood, racing thoughts, deep sadness, panic attacks, or trouble sleeping.

3. Is there a cure for bipolar anxiety?

There’s no cure, but there is effective treatment. Medicine and therapy help people live well.

4. Can kids or teens get bipolar anxiety?

Yes, even children and teens can have bipolar anxiety. Getting help early is important.

5. How do I find help near me?

Start by talking to a healthcare professional or visit a clinic that treats bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. Visit SAMHSA for more information.