Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can affect every aspect of your health, from your mood and self-esteem to your interpersonal and professional relationships. Psychiatric specialist and nurse practitioner Rachel Christian, ARNP, PMHNP, has over 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating all types of bipolar disorder at MRSC Solutions in Royal Palm, Florida. Call or schedule an appointment online today to get the care you deserve.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition that affects your mood, energy, and mental clarity. It causes intense emotional highs and lows. Bipolar disorder is often difficult to diagnose and treat. The condition can mimic other mental health disorders, like generalized anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

An accurate diagnosis is a critical component of managing bipolar disorder. The experienced mental health professionals at MRSC Solutions have helped men and women of all ages manage the signs of bipolar disorder for more than 20 years.  

Are there different types of bipolar disorder?

There are four main types of bipolar disorder:

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder typically causes intermittent episodes of mania and depression, but you must experience one or more manic periods to receive a proper diagnosis.

Bipolar II disorder

Unlike bipolar I, individuals with bipolar II disorder typically never experience full manic episodes. Instead, you may have depressive and hypomanic episodes, which are typically less intense than mania.

Cyclothymic disorder

Also called cyclothymia, this disorder causes mild periods of hypomania and depression for at least two years.

Unspecified

If you don’t meet the criteria for bipolar disorder but still experience abnormal mood swings, unspecified may be the cause.

What are the signs of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder can present differently depending on whether you’re experiencing manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes. Telltale signs of bipolar disorder typically include:

• Increased energy
• Impulsivity
• Behavioral changes
• Rapid cycling (sudden shifts in manic or depressive episodes)
• Suicidal ideation
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Racing thoughts
• Grandiosity

Without treatment, bipolar disorders can lead to risky behaviors that put your professional and personal life in jeopardy.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

After reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam, your provider assesses your symptoms and compares them against the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to determine whether you meet the criteria for bipolar disorder. They may also conduct additional psychological testing to diagnose your condition.

What are the treatments for bipolar disorder?

Treating bipolar disorder requires a combination of medication and therapy. Standard treatments include:

• Mood stabilizers (lithium, anticonvulsants, and atypical antipsychotics)
• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT)

Your provider may also recommend lifestyle changes to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Call MRSC Solutions today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about bipolar disorder.