Bipolar Disorder

Symptoms, Signs, Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes changes in a person’s  mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder  experience intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct  periods of days to weeks, called mood episodes. 

Bipolar disorder, known initially as manic-depressive illness or  manic depression, is a condition that causes sudden and drastic  fluctuations in an individual’s mood, energy levels, activity levels,  and ability to concentrate and complete daily tasks.

Bipolar disorder is not simply feeling happy one day and sad the  next. People with bipolar disorder can experience various symptoms and a  mix of emotions that can make it difficult for them to decipher what  they are feeling and why. 

These mood episodes are  categorized as manic/hypomanic (abnormally happy or irritable mood) or  depressive (sad mood). People with bipolar disorder generally have  periods of neutral mood as well. When treated, people with bipolar  disorder can lead full and productive lives

Symptoms of a manic or hypomanic (less intense mania) episode include:

  • Feeling abnormally upbeat, energetic, or euphoric
  • Inflated sense of well-being and self-esteem
  • Increased activity or agitation
  • Increased irritability
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts
  • Increased talkativeness
  • Getting distracted easily
  • Impaired judgment leading to impulsive or risky behavior (e.g., spending sprees, dangerous activities, etc.)

Major depressive episodes tend to interfere with aspects of daily  life, including work, school, and relationships. Symptoms of a major  depressive episode include:

  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and indifference
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities typically enjoyed Irritability
  • Significant weight loss or gain while not on a diet
  • Loss of or changes in appetite
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Slowed movements
  • Low energy levels and fatigue
  • Low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness and guilt
  • Trouble focusing
  • Suicidal thoughts

Bipolar disorder manifests differently in each individual. Some  patients may experience mood shifts very rarely, while some may  experience them several times a year. In addition to the above symptoms,  some individuals with bipolar disorder may experience anxious distress,  melancholy, and psychosis.

Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder

Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, treatments,  including medication and psychotherapy, can help mitigate symptoms. Our goal is to understand your situation as fully as possible so we can offer a personalized approach to bettering your mental health.

  • Medication: continued use of medication is often required to mitigate symptoms of bipolar disorder. Medications can include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants (typically paired with a mood stabilizer), and anti-anxiety medications.
  • Counseling and psychotherapy. Therapy is a helpful tool for individuals to better understand and navigate their symptoms.
  • Substance abuse treatment. If your bipolar disorder is influenced by drug or alcohol use, substance abuse counseling can help.

In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary. This typically  occurs when a patient experiences suicidal thoughts, behaves  dangerously, or experiences psychosis.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, do one or more of the following:

Call 911 

Go to the emergency room of your choice

Call your local crisis team or text START to 741-741 

Call (800)799-SAFE (7233) (National Domestic Violence Hotline) 

Call Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 (National Crisis Line)