Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue that causes extreme and unusual mood changes that affect your energy, activity levels, and concentration. The condition can severely disrupt your ability to complete your daily tasks and responsibilities. 

There are three distinct types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. 

Bipolar I causes intense and potentially dangerous manic episodes that last for seven days or more and depressive periods that persist for at least two weeks. 

Bipolar II also causes abnormal moods, but there are hypomanic episodes instead of full-blown mania. 

Cyclothymic disorder is the mildest form of bipolar disorder. It causes depressive and hypomanic symptoms but doesn’t meet the diagnostic requirements for bipolar I or II. 

*Psychiatric diagnoses such as bipolar disorder(DSM V, ICD-10) provide a helpful description of various conditions. It is useful for communication. However, a psychiatric diagnosis does not explain the causes of the condition, and treatment should not be driven by the diagnosis alone.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

If you have bipolar disorder, your symptoms vary by mood. For example, during a depressive episode, you experience pervasive feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. You might have uncontrollable crying, abnormal sleep, and trouble making even the most simple decisions.

However, during a manic episode, your mood is abnormally high, and you might experience:

• A sense of grandiosity
• Increased energy
• Decreased need for sleep or food
• Jumpy or edgy feelings

You might also talk rapidly, take on too many projects, or engage in reckless or dangerous behavior during a manic episode. 

Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic periods, although your symptoms are less severe. 

When should I talk to a doctor about bipolar disorder?

It’s normal to experience different moods and energy levels. However, if your mood changes are abnormal or interfere with your ability to function in your day-to-day life, you should schedule a consultation with Dr. Amiri. 

Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed. Many people with anxiety or depression are incorrectly diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Dr. Amiri carefully reviews your manic and depressive symptoms during your initial evaluation before providing a diagnosis. 

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Dr. Amiri provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment plan to regulate your moods and help you cope with bipolar disorder-related challenges. 

Depending on your needs, he may combine medication with counseling and lifestyle adjustments to improve your health and quality of life.

If you’re concerned about bipolar disorder, call the offices of Dr. Rod Amiri or schedule a consultation online today.