Bipolar disorder is one of today’s more common mood disorders. Characterized by swings from depression to mania, bipolar disorder is complex. However, it is treatable with the help of a trained mental health and bipolar disorder specialist.
Let’s look at the symptoms of bipolar disorder and what you can expect when you visit a specialist.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition which affects a person’s mood. Bipolar disorder used to be called manic depression because of its characteristic swings between highly active mania and depressive episodes.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health problem. In other words, you will have it for life. However, there are many treatment options which help manage its many and diverse symptoms.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder include the following.
Extreme Mood Swings
Bipolar disorder features intense changes in mood, ranging from extreme highs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). These shifts can happen quickly or may occur over a period of days or weeks.
Some people can go a long time without experiencing any symptoms at all. Then, symptoms may return during a period of stress or for no perceptible reason.
Mania
During manic episodes, individuals may be over-energized and hyperactive. Mania can lead to reckless behavior as people exhibit very poor judgment and decision-making. They can’t sleep and feel overly confident or even irritable to the point of rage.
Depression
Depressive episodes are characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness and lack of interest in activities and relationships which were previously enjoyed. Depression often changes a person’s appetite, weight, sleep patterns, and overall energy levels.
Mixed Episodes
In some cases, individuals with bipolar disorder have symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time. This combination of symptoms is called a mixed episode. The symptoms of mixed episodes can be very challenging to manage.
The Importance of Consulting a Mental Health & Bipolar Disorder Specialist
Bipolar disorder does not simply go away. It is a real mental health problem which requires treatment by a qualified professional.
Without treatment, people with bipolar disorder struggle with negative impacts on their day-to-day activities and relationships. They may wish to withdraw from social situations.
Conversely, they may feel empowered to take over the world during a manic episode. Then, they find themselves in a deep depression shortly after.
Without proper treatment, bipolar depression symptoms can worsen. They even may cause a break from reality.
This break from reality is called psychosis. Psychosis is very serious and usually requires in-patient treatment in a mental health facility.
People with symptoms of bipolar disorder should consult with a mental health specialist. A specialist can diagnose the condition and create an individualized treatment plan best suited to the needs of the individual.
Seeking help for bipolar disorder does not mean you are weak or helpless. With proper treatment, individuals with bipolar disorder do lead fulfilling lives and maintain stable relationships.
What to Expect During a Consultation with a Mental Health Specialist
During your consultation, your provider will discuss your moods, feelings, and behaviors. The provider likely will have you complete a questionnaire which will identify possible mental health concerns.
You will discuss your personal and family medical history. Ensure to mention any stressors which may be impacting your mental health.
Later, the provider will conduct a clinical assessment. He will observe your emotional state. He also will ask in-depth questions about your symptoms. This assessment helps him accurately diagnose bipolar disorder.
Once a diagnosis is made, your provider will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan. Your plan may include mood-stabilizing medication, cognitive therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones.
Top Bipolar Disorder Specialist in Virginia
Apex Psychiatry is a premier telehealth mental health provider serving patients of all ages and walks of life in Virginia. Our treatment methods for bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions are evidence-based, concentrating on the individual needs and goals of each patient we serve.
To learn more about bipolar disorder and how assessment and treatment work, please contact us at (540) 906-2739. You also may fill in our appointment request form to schedule your consultation.
We look forward to speaking with you. Together, we can work toward a happier, more fulfilling life for you and your loved ones.
