Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood changes called mood episodes.

Depressive episodes are periods of a somber mood, while manic episodes feature abnormal happiness and euphoria. You could also experience hypomanic episodes, like manic episodes but not as intense.

People with bipolar disorder experience swings between the high and low states. Bipolar disorder can cause extreme symptoms and can ultimately be crippling unless you seek help.

I have frequent mood swings. Do I have bipolar disorder?

People who don’t have bipolar disorder can experience mood swings, mainly when dealing with stress, disappointment, or excitement. But ordinary mood swings usually last a few hours at most.

Bipolar disorder causes mood episodes that last for days or weeks and are far more intense than ordinary mood swings. Characteristics of each type of bipolar disorder include:

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder causes manic and depressive episodes. Manic episodes are characterized by a significant, abnormal increase of energy classically associated with a decreased need for sleep. During manic episodes, you can also feel invincible, brilliant, euphoric, and generally on top of the world. 

These same people often can experience depressive, hypomanic periods and neutral periods as well.

Bipolar II disorder

Bipolar II disorder causes major depressive episodes alternating with hypomanic episodes. Depressive episodes can trigger deep, overwhelming depression, fatigue, and feelings of hopelessness.

In contrast, the hypomanic episodes often feel like a huge relief, so people with bipolar II often don’t seek help until they have another depressive episode.

Cyclothymic disorder features milder symptoms but shares the characteristics of bipolar disorder. This disorder is sometimes diagnosed in people who don’t meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I or II.

What is the best treatment approach for bipolar disorder?

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) calls medication the cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment. 

The most common medication for bipolar disorder is mood stabilizers that rebalance brain signals and relieve symptoms. Antidepressants are another commonly used medication.

Psychotherapy works alongside medication to help you manage symptoms.

The team helps you get the treatment you need, including seeing your doctors as often as necessary for medication management and psychotherapy so that you can have the best quality of life.

Call Adelpha Psychiatric Group or request your appointment online today.