Psychology Support for Bipolar Disorder in Varsity Lakes, Gold Coast QLD

By David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist, Varsity Lakes, Gold Coast, QLD

Understanding The Role Of Psychology In Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that can involve episodes of mania, hypomania, depression, or mixed mood states. As a result, it can affect relationships, employment, study, finances, sleep, decision-making, physical health, and overall quality of life [1,2].

Most importantly, bipolar disorder usually needs ongoing medical care. Therefore, evidence-based guidelines recommend psychiatric assessment, medication management, and regular support from a general practitioner as the foundation of treatment for Bipolar I Disorder and many presentations of Bipolar II Disorder [1–3].

Psychology can still play an important role. However, it usually works best as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan, rather than as a replacement for medication or psychiatric care [1–4].

At Hennessy Clinical Psychology, support is available for adolescents and adults living with bipolar disorder who may benefit from assistance with emotional adjustment, relapse prevention, coping skills, daily functioning, routine stability, and understanding the impact of bipolar disorder on their lives.

Bipolar Disorder Is Not Simply Mood Swings

The term “bipolar” is often used casually to describe changes in mood. Clinical bipolar disorder is significantly different.

Mania and hypomania involve sustained changes in mood, energy, activity levels, behaviour, and thinking that extend beyond ordinary emotional ups and downs [5].

During elevated mood states, people may experience:

• Increased energy
• Reduced need for sleep
• Increased confidence
• Increased goal-directed activity
• Rapid thinking
• Increased talkativeness
• Increased spending
• Increased risk-taking
• Increased impulsivity

Some people experience these changes as positive initially. However, mania can also lead to significant consequences affecting relationships, finances, employment, physical safety, and mental health [1,5].

An Important Fact About Bipolar I Disorder

Many people assume that depression is required for a diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder.

This is not the case.

According to DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, a single manic episode is sufficient for a diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder if other diagnostic criteria are met [5].

Although many people with Bipolar I Disorder also experience depressive episodes during their lives, depression is not required for diagnosis.

This distinction is often misunderstood by the public and even by some health professionals unfamiliar with the diagnostic criteria.

How Psychology Can Help

Psychology does not cure bipolar disorder. Also, it does not replace medical treatment.

However, psychological therapy can still support long-term management when it sits alongside psychiatric care, medication, and GP involvement [3,4].

For example, therapy may help with the following areas:

Areas commonly addressed include:

Psychoeducation

Understanding bipolar disorder can help people recognise patterns, identify triggers, understand treatment recommendations, and make informed decisions about their care [3].

Relapse Prevention

Many people learn to identify early warning signs that may indicate developing mania, hypomania, or depression.

Recognising changes early may allow intervention before symptoms become more severe [3,4].

Sleep And Routine Stability

Sleep disruption is one of the most significant relapse risks in bipolar disorder.

Psychology can help people develop routines that support consistent sleep and daily functioning [3].

Emotional Adjustment

Living with bipolar disorder can affect self-esteem, confidence, relationships, and identity.

Psychological support can assist people to process these experiences and adapt to ongoing management needs.

Communication And Relationships

Episodes of depression, mania, or hypomania can affect family relationships, friendships, and intimate relationships.

Psychology can help individuals develop communication and interpersonal skills that support healthier relationships.

The Importance Of A Multidisciplinary Approach

Best-practice care for bipolar disorder usually involves several health professionals. For this reason, people may work with a psychiatrist, general practitioner, clinical psychologist, and other supports when needed [1–4].

Together, this team approach aims to support mood stability, daily functioning, relapse prevention, physical health, and quality of life.

When To Seek Support

Support may be helpful when:

• Symptoms are affecting daily functioning
• There are concerns about relapse
• Relationships are being affected
• Sleep routines have become disrupted
• Motivation or functioning has declined
• There are difficulties adjusting to the diagnosis
• Additional coping strategies are needed

Related Topics

• Mood Disorders
• Understanding Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy for Depression
• The Difference Between Feeling Driven and Choosing Action
• Book an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bipolar Disorder Mainly Treated With Psychology?

No. Medical treatment is usually the primary treatment approach. Therefore, ongoing psychiatric care, medication management, and GP support are often central. Psychology can still help, but it usually works as an adjunct to medical care [1–3].

Does Bipolar I Disorder Require Depression?

No. A manic episode alone can meet diagnostic criteria for Bipolar I Disorder if other criteria are satisfied [5].

Can Psychology Replace Medication?

Psychology is generally not considered a replacement for medication in Bipolar I Disorder. Treatment decisions should always be discussed with a psychiatrist or prescribing doctor [1–3].

Can Therapy Help Prevent Relapse?

Research suggests that psychological interventions may assist with recognising warning signs, improving adherence to treatment plans, and reducing relapse risk when combined with medical care [3,4].

Is Telehealth Available?

Yes. Appointments are available in person at Varsity Lakes and via telehealth Australia-wide.

References

[1] Malhi, G. S., Bell, E., Bassett, D., Boyce, P., Bryant, R., Hazell, P., Hopwood, M., Lyndon, B., Mulder, R., Porter, R., Singh, A., & Murray, G. (2021). The 2020 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists clinical practice guidelines for mood disorders. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 55(1), 7–117. https://doi.org/10.1177/0004867420979353

[2] National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2023). Bipolar Disorder: Assessment and Management (CG185). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg185

[3] Yatham, L. N., Kennedy, S. H., Parikh, S. V., Schaffer, A., Bond, D. J., Frey, B. N., Sharma, V., Goldstein, B. I., Rej, S., Beaulieu, S., Alda, M., MacQueen, G., Milev, R., Ravindran, A., O’Donovan, C., McIntyre, R. S., Lam, R. W., Vazquez, G., Kapczinski, F., … Berk, M. (2023). The CANMAT and ISBD guidelines for the management of bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disorders, 25(1), 2–154. https://doi.org/10.1111/bdi.13250

[4] Miklowitz, D. J., Efthimiou, O., Furukawa, T. A., Scott, J., McLaren, R., Geddes, J. R., Cipriani, A., & Cuijpers, P. (2021). Adjunctive psychotherapy for bipolar disorder: A systematic review and component network meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry, 78(2), 141–150. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.2993

[5] American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Publishing.