Bipolar Disorder

If you are experiencing extreme highs and lows, you may need to be evaluated for bipolar depression. Book an appointment today to get started.

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What is Bipolar Disorder?

Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is defined as a mental health condition that causes a person to experience extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression).

There are two common forms of bipolar disorder – bipolar I, which affects men and women equally, and bipolar II, which primarily affects women.

Bipolar I is defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days, and are so severe that the person needs urgent medical care. Depressive episodes usually occur after period of mania and last around 2 weeks.

Bipolar II is defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are periods of mania that are less severe than Bipolar I.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

While bipolar depression has no known cure, there are several treatment options available that can alleviate symptoms and create a more balanced state for someone suffering from bipolar depression.

Common signs and symptoms associated with bipolar disorder are classified into manic symptoms and depressive symptoms.

Manic symptoms include:

Feelings of elation
Racing thoughts
Excessive energy
Feeling of euphoria.

Depressive symptoms include:

Fatigue
Feelings of hopelessness or emptiness
Long periods of sleep
Suicidal thoughts or actions.

How is Bipolar Disorder treated?

Medication Management

Medication management is an ongoing process between patient and provider that helps find the right medication and dosage to treat your symptoms both safely and effectively.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine appointments take place over our virtual video conferencing platform which allows you to connect with a BestMind provider from anywhere with internet connection.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes mood swings with very deep depressions and very high emotional highs (mania).

What causes bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain, though there does seem to be a genetic link.

How to treat bipolar disorder?

Most patients are treated for bipolar disorder with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy.

Is bipolar disorder a disability?

Bipolar disorder is a qualified condition for disability, but whether someone is able to collect supplemental security income for their condition depends on a variety of factors.

Can you develop bipolar disorder?

Yes, it generally develops in people ages 15 to 19, and rarely develops in people over age 40. Bipolar disorder often runs in families.

Can bipolar disorder be cured?

There is no cure for bipolar disorder, however, most people are able to control their condition through a combination of bipolar disorder medications and therapy.