Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme changes in your mood. You experience periods of extreme energy (manic episodes) followed by periods of depressive episodes where you feel hopeless and persistently sad.

There are three classifications of Bipolar Disorder:

Bipolar I disorder involves manic episodes that last at least seven days, followed by depressive episodes that last up to two weeks.

People with Bipolar I can have episodes that are severe enough to require hospitalization.

In Bipolar II, you experience a pattern of depressive episodes and manic episodes that aren’t as severe as they are in Bipolar I.

Cyclothymic disorder describes hypomanic symptoms that last for at least two years but aren’t within the diagnostic requirements for Bipolar I or II.

In general, Bipolar Disorder symptoms begin in late adolescence or early adulthood. You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our providers if you experience unexplained changes in your mood that last for several days or weeks.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder might include persistent feelings of:

• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Emptiness
• Hopelessness

You should also schedule a consultation with Still Tranquility if you have difficulty falling or staying asleep, have racing thoughts, or struggle to meet your responsibilities.

Treatment for bipolar disorder is typically necessary for the rest of your life. Our providers work closely with you to create a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. They might prescribe medications like antipsychotics and antidepressants to help stabilize your moods and improve the quality of your life.

Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is also a beneficial treatment for Bipolar Disorder. Our providers can help you recognize your behaviors and thought patterns, so you can learn how to respond differently. 

You might also benefit from making lifestyle and dietary changes to improve your overall health and stay in better control of your Bipolar Disorder.

If you'd like to learn more about options for treating Bipolar Disorder, please book an appointment today.