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Signs of Bipolar Disorder in Men

Signs of Bipolar Disorder in Men

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Dear men, if you feel like you are feeling extreme bouts of different types of moods then you are probably suffering from bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder in men is a pressing matter but somehow is glossed over due to idiotic reasons as it goes unrecognized and the disorder itself undiagnosed. So if you happen to see bipolar symptoms in men you know or if you are one yourself, it is time to get suitable treatment but before we do that, let’s get a comprehensive introduction to the definition of bipolar disorder and also talk about how it affects men and how can it be identified if they have it or not.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

It is a type of mental condition where two types of moods reign. These moods are the opposite side of the spectrum and each of these moods has episodes that characterize different types of bipolar disorders. The episodes can either be manic or depressive. The manic side of things suggests feelings of hyperactivity, over excitement, and uber-happiness while the depressive episode is more concerned with feelings of extreme sadness, impulsivity, and irritability. The back and forth between these extreme and opposite moods is a hindrance for those who are affected by this type of mental condition.

The Different Types of Bipolar Disorders

The different types of bipolar disorder can shed light on the different signs of bipolar disorder in men.

Bipolar 1

You may have Bipolar 1 if you have had a manic episode at least once and it has lasted for at least a week. While it is not always the case, people who have bipolar 1 also tend to suffer from depressive episodes

Bipolar 2

You are bound to get the diagnosis of Bipolar 2 if you have suffered from at least one depressive episode and a manic episode that has at least for four days.

Cyclothymia

If you have been having alternating mood swings for a period of over two years and your symptoms do not match the criteria of either bipolar 1 or bipolar 2 then you are probably suffering from cyclothymia. It is difficult to diagnose this one as the symptoms may not seem serious enough to warrant a treatment but this ailment is indeed a serious matter.

Rapid-Cycling Bipolar

When it comes to bipolar disorder in men, this type is the least relatable for them because it is prevalent in women. You will be told that you have either bipolar 1 or bipolar 2 with ‘rapid cycling’. This one is characterized by depressive, manic, or a combination of both of these episodes that have happened at least 4 times in under a year. It usually goes like this, one manic or hypomanic episode that is followed by depressive ones. Rapid cycling alternates between normalcy that can last for weeks and sometimes episodes that go on for weeks or even months

How Bipolar Disorder Differs in Men?

Bipolar disorder in men can exist differently than it does in women. There are a couple of ways it differs from that. Let’s see how:

The Onset

The bipolar symptoms in men appear earlier when compared to women. Women also tend to get a seasonal pattern and their mood swings are more extreme than in men.

The Prevalence of Episodes

Men tend to have fewer depressive episodes and mix mania than women. As mentioned before, rapid cycling of these episodes is more common in women than men.

The Type of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar 2 is more prevalent in women than in men and that reiterates the fact men tend to suffer from fewer depressive episodes.

Co-occurrence

Substance abuse with bipolar disorder in men is more common while it is uncommon for men to have bipolar disorder with mental conditions such as an anxiety disorder like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Hormonal Effect

Signs of bipolar disorder in men are also different due to the different levels of hormonal influences that exist in men and women. In women, hormonal fluctuations that arise because of menopause, pregnancy, or the menstrual cycles, all of which are not present in men, can alleviate bipolar symptoms in women to extreme levels.

Decoding Bipolar Symptoms in Men

Identifying bipolar signs in males is not akin to finding the root from where the problems stem but is more similar to finding the connecting dots that lead to that root. Bipolar disorder in men is characterized by impulsive behavior as men with bipolar are more prone to aggressive outbursts, risk aversion, and increased irritability. This heightened irritability and anger occur more during the manic phases of men, which can hurt their relationships and the social circles they frequent. The effect is similar in the depressive episodes, while women feel sadder during these episodes. Women with bipolar may feel more suicidal thoughts but it is the men with bipolar who actually commit suicide more, which is especially evident when signs of bipolar depression in males are present.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder in Men

The actual cause of bipolar disorder in men is known, but if we really had to pinpoint it, we can say it is a combination of different variables that lead to bipolar disorder in men. But predominantly these variables or a mix of them probably cause bipolar disorder.

Genetics:

Bipolar disorder in men is meant to happen if there is a long family history of affliction. This suggests that there is a genetic link and therefore predisposition in bipolar disorder’s prevalence in people whose ancestors tend to have it. This way bipolar disorder does not discriminate in any way.

Environment:

The genetic link is what puts bipolar disorder in the genetic code but it is not what actually initially triggers it. Situations that involve stress, trauma, hormonal imbalances, or substance abuse can act as triggers that lead to bipolar disorder in men, women, or even adolescents and children.

Chemical Imbalance

When chemical messengers like serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine or their operations are compromised, it can also lead to signs of bipolar depression in men and women.

Hormonal Dysregulation

While more common in women due to issues related to pregnancy, menopause or mensuration, it can happen in men too. For example, taking hormonal therapy for one reason or another, or somehow having a deficiency related to it, can lead to bipolar disorder in men.

Brain Structure

How your brain is structured can also lead to bipolar disorder in men. For example, the size of the prefrontal cortex, a part that is associated with feelings and mood, can literally affect if you are going to get bipolar disorder or not. Again, what size your brain is does discriminate when it comes to gender.

How to Deal With Bipolar Disorder in Men?

Bipolar signs in males tend to go unreported because men tend to avoid coming to terms with the idea that they might be suffering from bipolar disorder, or in fact any mental condition for that matter. This is because society expects men to not resolve their mental conditions, especially the ones that relate to emotions, which bipolar disorder is. The problems with anger and impulsivity that can arise due to bipolar disorder in men are often regarded as “boyish” behavior or symptoms of another issue, which frequently leads to a bipolar misdiagnosis. The only clear way to heal from bipolar symptoms in men is to find treatment and understand that these symptoms are serious and can be consequential if left untreated.

Treatment

Treatment of bipolar disorder in men does not differ much when compared to treatment for women with bipolar. But a combination of the treatment methods referred to below can cover all the bases that can help you heal from bipolar symptoms.

Medication

A carefully reviewed and monitored concoction of antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers can take up the fight against bipolar symptoms in men.

Psychotherapy

Also called “Talk Therapy”, is very beneficial in treating bipolar disorder in men. A therapist who is an expert in bipolar disorder can help with navigating through the extreme mood swings and the problematic behavior that is caused by them

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

The “electric shock” therapy is used for treating the extreme or severe form of bipolar disorder.

Concluding Words

We have talked about the signs of bipolar disorder in men and how it can be treated, its causes, and of course the symptoms. But did we tell you we have an expert team of mental health professionals at Orange Coast Psychiatry, that is more than capable of handling mood disorders such as bipolar disorder? So now that you know, why not book an appointment?

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Shaheena Gazipura

PMHNP-BC

Richard Samedra, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He brings over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, working with clients facing a wide range of acute and chronic mental health conditions. His journey began as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and Charge Nurse at Westminster Therapeutic Residential Treatment, where he supported clients dealing with anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Richard’s dedication was centered on helping these individuals improve their mental health and transition to a lower level of care, whether that meant returning to their families, a board and care facility, or a sober-living environment.

Motivated by a growing passion for mental health care, Richard pursued his Registered Nurse (RN) education at Saddleback Community College and later transitioned to La Palma Intercommunity Hospital Behavioral Health. In this role, he specialized in geriatric psychiatry, working with older adults experiencing conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, depression, and anxiety. This experience solidified his commitment to mental health, leading him to work at Bellflower Community Hospital, where he provided care for patients experiencing severe psychiatric crises, including suicidal ideation, manic and depressive episodes, substance use disorders, and exacerbated schizophrenia symptoms.

Inspired by the impactful work of PMHNPs at Bellflower, Richard enrolled in the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Azusa Pacific University. To broaden his expertise, he worked full-time at College Hospital Costa Mesa while completing his studies. There, he gained comprehensive experience across various units, including adolescent, acute men’s and women’s, stabilization, and detox/med-surg. Now, as a PMHNP, Richard is committed to leveraging his diverse background and knowledge to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to those in need.

Richard currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where he is supervised by Dr. Montgomery.

 

Shaheena Gazipura

PMHNP-BC

Shaheena Gazipura is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of dedicated experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California.

Shaheena began her career working on an adult psychiatric inpatient unit before transitioning to the geriatric psychiatric inpatient unit at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital. In addition to her clinical work, Shaheena also serves as a Nursing Clinical Instructor, guiding the next generation of nurses through their mental health rotations at a large community college.

Shaheena is a passionate advocate for mental health, believing that it is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being. She is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and strives to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that honors each individual’s unique experiences and challenges. Her goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel empowered to work alongside her in achieving their mental health goals.

Outside of her professional life, Shaheena enjoys exploring new culinary experiences, staying active through exercise, and planning her next travel adventures.

Shaheena currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

Clint Nacar

PMHNP-BC

Clint Nacar, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mr. Nacar graduated from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Currently Mr. Nacar works in an inpatient psychiatry unit at a leading academic medical center in Los Angeles, Renewed Mental Health Group, and Orange Coast Psychiatry

Mr. Nacar brings over 7+ years of experience with the mental health population. He works to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management. Mr. Nacar’s areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Mr. Nacar treats children ages 6+, adolescents, and adults, offering both in-person services and telehealth at Renewed Mental Health Group.

With the collaboration of each patient, Mr. Nacar strives to develop individualized plans of care addressing each patient’s unique situation and concerns. He also encourages each patient to take charge of their mental health through a holistic approach while also employing the latest evidence based practices in treatment.

Clint is one of our most experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is 103NP Licensed in the State of California.

Cristian Cuevas

PMHNP-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

Cristian Cuevas, PMHNP-BC, is a highly skilled board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over seven years of experience in inpatient psychiatry and mental health.

A California State University Long Beach graduate, Cristian also earned recognition as a board-certified psychiatric mental health registered nurse. With a wealth of expertise in adult psychiatric care across the lifespan, Cristian has successfully diagnosed and treated a diverse range of mental health disorders.

Additionally, his specialized experience in child and adolescent inpatient populations further enhances his ability to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care.

Cristian Cuevas is the Lead Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is supervised by Dr Barrios.

Griselda Hernandez

PMHNP-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

As a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a robust background in psychiatric and substance abuse nursing, Griselda provides compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. The core of her practice focuses on promoting holistic wellness, fostering resilience, and empowering patients in their recovery journey. Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents with various mental health disorders, Griselda strives to create a therapeutic environment where patients feel valued, respected, and supported.
“My approach is grounded in years of diverse experience, including work in psychiatric units and medical detox units for both adults and adolescents. This extensive background has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to manage complex psychiatric and substance abuse conditions effectively. I am committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in psychiatric care, integrating cutting-edge therapies and best practices into my treatment plans. Collaboration is key to my practice; I work closely with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community resources to provide coordinated and comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.”
Griselda holds a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from West Coast University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Additionally, she is fluent in the English and Spanish language, enhancing her ability to connect with a diverse patient population.
Griselda currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

Dr Barrios

Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Carlos Barrios is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over two decades of experience in mental health care. His expertise in telepsychiatry has allowed him to serve patients across California and beyond. In his practice, Dr Barrios integrates metabolic and functional methodologies, focusing on guiding patients toward medication independence and emphasizing the connection between physical and mental health.
Outside of his professional life, Dr Barrios is passionate about kettlebell training, which helps him maintain my physical and mental wellness. He cherishes visiting his family in Guatemala, to reconnecting with his cultural roots and rejuvenating his spirit. Dr Barrios is also deeply involved in transcendental meditation and rucking, practices that not only provide him with tranquility but also keep him grounded and connected to nature. These hobbies reflect his commitment to a holistic approach to health, both personally and professionally.