Bipolar Disorder

The extreme changes in mood typical of bipolar disorder are exhausting. If you’re struggling with frequent or severe episodes of mania and depression, Careen Tetuh, PMHNP-BC, at Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, in Katy, Texas, can help. She offers high-quality diagnostic and treatment services for people with bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. To benefit from Careen’s expertise, call Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, today or book an appointment online.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder. Other examples include major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). Dramatic alterations in mood and energy levels occurring in cycles are symptoms that people with bipolar disorder experience.

You might feel highly energized and full of confidence during a manic phase. You likely need little sleep, are constantly on the go, and find it impossible to slow down. Your thoughts race, and you get distracted easily. You also talk much more than usual and may speak quickly and loudly.

Reckless, out-of-character behaviors are common during a manic phase. These symptoms could last for days or weeks before you switch to the depressive phase, where you might have so little energy you can barely get up. Your thoughts become slower and confused, and you feel desperately sad and hopeless and may even think life isn’t worth living.

Bipolar I disorder is the most severe type. Bipolar II disorder is severe depression but typically causes less extreme mania. Cyclothymic disorder is a milder version but can still be disabling.

Why would I have bipolar disorder?

It’s not clear why some people get bipolar disorder. Your genes are probably involved because most people with bipolar disorder have relatives with the condition or other mood disorders.

You might have a higher risk of developing bipolar disorder if you’re under extreme stress and have chronically poor sleep. Substance misuse, including excessive alcohol consumption, could also increase your susceptibility to bipolar disorder.

Most people experience symptoms of bipolar disorder before they reach 18. However, it’s not unknown for the condition to develop after this age.

What treatments can help with bipolar disorder?

Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC combines medication with various forms of talk therapies to reduce the severity of bipolar disorder.

Medications called mood stabilizers help stop mood changes from happening so often and make them less overwhelming. Antipsychotic medicines help with mania, and antidepressants reduce depression symptoms.

Psychotherapy helps you deal with problems in your life and emotional upsets that make your bipolar disorder worse. Behavioral therapy provides the resources you need to manage your condition day-to-day.

There’s no cure for bipolar disorder, but with careful management, you can lead a rich and rewarding life. Call Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, today, or book an appointment online.