Bipolar Disorder
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a mental health condition associated with extreme mood swings, including depression symptoms and emotional highs. Continuous mood changes can negatively affect your behavior and ability to think clearly or make sound decisions.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
If you have bipolar disorder, you might experience some of the following signs and symptoms:
Manic episodes
Feeling upbeat, wired, or jumpy
Increases in energy and activity
Euphoria
Racing thoughts
Extreme talkativeness
Decreases in the need for sleep
Distractibility
Poor decision making
Impulsive behavior
Depressive episodes
Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Appetite changes
Weight loss or weight gain
Insomnia or sleeping too much
Fatigue
Restlessness
Feeling worthless or guilty
Problems concentrating
Thoughts of suicide
If left untreated, bipolar disorder can negatively affect your job and interpersonal relationships. See the Brightpoint Psychiatry team for an evaluation at the first sign of a bipolar disorder.
What are the risk factors for bipolar disorder?
While the cause of bipolar disorder isn’t known, certain factors may increase your risk of developing it. Examples include brain chemistry, genetics, family history of bipolar disorder, chronic stress, a traumatic life event, and drug or alcohol abuse.
How does my provider diagnose bipolar disorder?
To diagnose bipolar disorder and develop a treatment plan, your Brightpoint Psychiatry provider performs a physical examination, reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and completes a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. They might recommend you undergo blood tests to detect or rule out underlying medical problems.
What are common bipolar disorder treatment options?
Your personalized bipolar treatment plan might include the following:
Lifestyle changes
Making specific lifestyle changes can reduce bipolar disorder symptoms. Examples include not drinking, smoking, or using recreational drugs, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and surrounding yourself with a positive social support network.
Therapy
Brightpoint Psychiatry specialists offer interpersonal therapy, social rhythm therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, and other types of counseling to help you overcome bipolar disorder symptoms.
Medications
Taking medications can stabilize your mood, reducing symptoms of depression, extreme highs, and mood swings to help you thrive in your environment.
Don’t live with bipolar disorder symptoms when simple, non-invasive treatments are within reach at Brightpoint Psychiatry. Schedule an appointment by phone or book online to take steps towards improving your mental health today.
