Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by significant mood changes that can affect daily functioning and behavior. Episodes of mania and depression can last days to weeks, creating shifts in energy, thinking, and emotional state. Our team is dedicated to helping individuals manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder and identify the treatment approach that works best for them.
Bipolar disorder affects millions of adults in the U.S., typically beginning in early adulthood. Genetics play a major role, with the disorder often running in families. Additional factors such as trauma, substance use, high stress, and structural differences in the brain can contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder in people with a predisposition to the illness.
Manic Episodes: Individuals may experience extreme euphoria, high energy, rapid thoughts, impulsivity, inflated self-esteem, irritability, decreased need for sleep, fast speech, and distractibility. Manic episodes last at least one week and involve noticeable changes in behavior.
Hypomanic Episodes: These are similar to manic episodes but less severe and last at least four days .
Major Depressive Episodes: Characterized by profound sadness, fatigue, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, sleep or appetite changes, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and potential thoughts of death or suicide. Depressive episodes last at least two weeks .
Bipolar I Disorder: At least one manic episode, often accompanied by depressive or hypomanic episodes and periods of normal mood.
Bipolar II Disorder: At least one major depressive episode and one hypomanic episode.
Cyclothymic Disorder: A milder form, involving frequent mood swings with hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least two years . Symptoms are less severe but still impact daily life.
Bipolar disorder is treatable, often with a combination of medication and psychotherapy:
Medications: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants help regulate mood and reduce the severity of mood swings. Finding the right medication and dosage may require careful monitoring and adjustment by a qualified healthcare provider.
Psychotherapy: Helps individuals understand and manage symptoms, recognize early warning signs, cope with stress, adhere to medication, and improve communication and relationships. Therapy can also address co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or substance use.
With the right combination of care, individuals with bipolar disorder can achieve greater stability, improved functioning, and a better quality of life .
In addition to bipolar disorder care, we provide:
Medication management
Psychotherapy
ADHD testing
TMS and Spravato therapy
Primary care and medical weight loss
Psychiatric genetic testing
Treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, and more
