Our Services / Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

The original name for bipolar disorder, manic-depressive disorder, reflected the classic mood swings between mania and depression. However, today there are three types of bipolar disorder.

While they all involve swings in mood, energy, and activity, they don't all have the same manic-depressive extremes. 

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder reflects the original manic-depressive disorder. You have high-energy manic episodes that last at least a week or cause severe symptoms that need hospitalization. You also have episodes of major depression and may have mania and depression at the same time. 

Bipolar II disorder

This type causes episodes of major depression and hypomania. Your behavior changes are noticeable with hypomania, but your symptoms are less severe than full-blown mania. You can usually keep up with your daily responsibilities and seldom need in-patient care. 

Cyclothymic disorder

If you have cyclothymic disorder, you experience frequent mood swings for at least two years. However, your symptoms are milder than hypomania and major depression. Cyclothymic disorder increases your risk of developing bipolar I or II disorder. 

What symptoms occur due to bipolar disorder? 

During a manic episode, you:

• Have excessive physical and emotional energy
• Increase your overall activity
• Need less sleep
• Have rapid speech
• Have uncontrollable, racing thoughts
• Have an inflated sense of self-importance
• Participate in risky behaviors (e.g., spending sprees, speeding while driving)

Some people experience psychotic symptoms during mania, including hallucinations or delusions. 

During an episode of major depression, you:

• Feel sad, hopeless, and worthless
• Have low energy and fatigue
• Have a hard time concentrating
• Avoid spending time with friends
• Lose interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Sleep more or less
• Eat more or less
• May have thoughts of suicide

Many people have physical symptoms like headaches and body aches during depression. 

How is bipolar disorder treated?

After completing an initial evaluation and diagnosing bipolar disorder, your Corebella Health & Wellness provider prescribes medications that stabilize your mood. Most people get the best long-term results by combining medication with therapy. 

During therapy, you learn warning signs of an impending mood swing, as well as ways to prevent or minimize the change. Bipolar disorder affects many aspects of your life. As a result, they customize your therapy to support your unique needs, whether you need help with relationships, reducing stress, or dealing with insomnia.

You can live a purposeful and satisfying life with bipolar disorder. To get the help you need, call Corebella Health & Wellness or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.