Ever had a partner who alternates between being all over you and barely noticing you? Such shifts in sexual drive can often be connected to one’s mental state. While not every fluctuation in mood or desire suggests bipolar disorder, paying attention to significant changes is crucial.
Look for patterns in behavior. If your partner goes through “high” periods where they’re super cheerful, excited about work, and eager for various activities, but then becomes withdrawn and negative weeks later, these might be signs of bipolar disorder. This condition involves a chemical imbalance in the brain that causes drastic mood swings from extreme highs (manic states) to deep lows (depressive states).
Bipolar disorder comes in two main types. Bipolar 1 includes intense manic episodes that can even cause hallucinations. Bipolar 2 involves hypomania, a milder form of mania characterized by feelings of elation and high energy.
One aspect often overlooked is how bipolar disorder affects libido. During manic or hypomanic phases, individuals may have frequent and intense sexual urges. This isn’t because bipolar disorder directly causes hypersexuality; rather, it’s the euphoric “high” they experience that leads to pursuing various pleasurable activities, from shopping to sex, gambling, or substance use. How these impulses manifest can vary widely among patients.
During these manic phases, hypersexuality can lead some bipolar individuals to engage in activities they normally wouldn’t. This can include having sex with multiple partners or even in public places. Women with bipolar disorder might feel particularly ashamed after such episodes due to societal double standards, and they’re also at a higher risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies.
Dealing with the aftermath of impulsive behavior can be challenging. Hypersexuality, especially within a relationship, can lead to severe consequences like infidelity, impromptu sexual encounters, or excessive masturbation, all of which can harm one’s physical and mental health.
The extreme highs of mania are followed by equally extreme depressive lows, during which sexual desire often drops dramatically. This inconsistency can be problematic, particularly in a relationship, where mismatched libidos can cause significant strain.
Psychologists recommend that bipolar patients monitor their mood changes to better manage them. Keeping a record of when mood shifts occur and the urges that accompany them can provide valuable insights. For example, feeling an unusual need to engage in impulsive sexual activity, work excessively, or go on spending sprees might be telltale signs.
Finding effective strategies to manage these fluctuations is key. For women who are sexually active, long-term contraceptives can be a safer option. Despite the prevalence of hypersexuality among bipolar individuals, not everyone with the disorder experiences it. Those who take their medication consistently often find their mood and urges more manageable.
For those who do struggle with hypersexuality, learning to control it is vital. This might involve avoiding triggering content, seeking therapy, or using software to block erotic visuals. Medical professionals can also provide assistance through medication and counseling.
Physical activities like intense exercise or running have proven effective in reducing sex drive. Meditation and therapy are also beneficial in helping individuals redirect their urges.
Ultimately, with proper self-care, medication, and strategies to control impulsive behavior, people with bipolar disorder can lead normal lives. While the condition doesn’t diminish one’s worth, managing moods effectively is essential to preventing negative impacts on life.