Conditions we treat

Bipolar disorder

Episodes of mania or elevated mood that alternates with severe depression require careful evaluation and use of effective treatment strategies. Our highly skilled psychiatric providers are experienced with providing effective treatment strategies.

What bipolar disorder can look like

Bipolar disorder often involves big shifts in mood from “highs” to severe depression. When mood is elevated, you may feel unusually energetic, need little sleep, talk fast or engage in behavior others would consider risky. During a low, it may be hard to engage in important life tasks such as eating, showering or going to work. While these may occur at separate times, for some people, they may experience both mood elevation and depression together. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment, is a big step to more stable function.

Common signs

Mania or elevated mood

Feeling “on top of the world,” unusual amounts of energy despite little sleep, speaking quickly, risky or impulsive behaviors, little concern with consequences, exaggerated sense of skills or confidence.

Depression

Lack of energy or interest in enjoyed activities or social connections, sadness or irritability, feeling hopeless or unable to make changes, poor concentration.

Mixed Features

Symptoms of both energized and depressed or agitated at the same time.

How we treat bipolar disorder

Medication

Many medications including mood stabilizers are highly effective at stabilizing symptoms and improving function.

Therapy

Working with a therapist will help to understand your diagnosis, recognize signs your mood is changing, and identify key lifestyle strategies to feel healthier.

Ongoing monitoring

Ongoing meetings with your treatment team will ensure you are tracking symptoms, monitoring medication dosage and using all your strategies to improve your life.

Stability is possible

Bipolar disorder is manageable. Accurate diagnosis and the right treatment strategies results in a highly functional life.