Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.8% of American adults. It can cause extreme shifts in mood and behavior, making it challenging to maintain overall well-being and day-to-day functioning. At Insight Psychiatry, we can accurately diagnose your bipolar disorder and treat your symptoms effectively by developing a treatment plan with you - not just for you. 

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes intense swings in your behavior and mood. These polarizing moods occur in episodes, and typically last a week or more. Not all mood episodes are as extreme as they are portrayed in TV shows and movies. Sometimes, individuals can have a "watered down" version of bipolar disorder, and never require any hospitalization. 

People is bipolar disorder can also have what is considered "predominant polarity". This is where an individual stays in one mood episode for the majority of time, with as little as one mood episode in the opposite mood. For instance, someone with predominantly depressive episodes who experienced one hypomanic episode still is considered to have bipolar disorder and will most likely respond difefrently to typical depression medications. This is why it is imperative to collaborate with your provider to review a thorough history of mood episodes. 

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Signs of a manic episode include:

• Euphoria, unexplained
• Intense excitement 
• Impulsivity (excessive spending, gambling, etc.)
• Increased productivity
• Recklessness
• Racing thoughts or speech
• Less of a need for sleep
• Feeling invincible 
• Conflicts with others 
• Delusions or hallucinations (in severe cases) 

Depressive episode symptoms include: 

• Extreme sadness 
• Loss of energy
• Loss of pleasure in activities that you usually enjoy
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleep
• Loss of focus or motivation 
• Guilt, shame, or persistent negative feelings
• Suicidal thoughts

If you or your teen has thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call 911 or the 988 lifeline immediately for free and confidential support. 

What are the treatment options for bipolar disorder? 

Your provider at Insight Psychiatry conducts a diagnostic assessment before diagnosing your type of bipolar disorder. They then develop an achievable treatment plan. 

Bipolar disorder can operate in cycles throughout your lifetime, so staying in treatment is crucial. Your provider may recommend treatments, including:

• Psychotherapy
• Mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, other psychotropic medications
• Meditation 
• Healthy diet, exercise, and sleeping habits 

Your provider can offer guidance on locating supportive resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which provides support groups and tools for patients and their families.

If you believe you are struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder, book a visit online.