Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Wylie, TX

Bipolar disorder (which has previously been referred to manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes rapidly changing mood episodes, changes in energy, and activity as well as changes in your ability to focus and carry out typical daily activities.

We all go through mood swings, but these mood swings usually only last a few hours as opposed to days. The difference is when someone is suffering from bipolar disorder they have a significant behavior change and adjusting to regular activities and social interactions is hard for them. A person with bipolar disorder may experience challenges at work or at school, as well as in their relationships with their loved ones. Psychiatry.org published a great article breaking down bipolar disorder and how each type of disorder affects people and treatment that are commonly used.

Types of Bipolar Disorders

WebMD is listed out the types of bipolar that a person could be diagnosed with:

• Bipolar I Disorder – People may experience depressive episodes that last at least 2 weeks, along with manic episodes that can require hospitalization, and symptoms that last a week or longer. Some people experience a mix of both mood symptoms (depression and mania) simultaneously.
• Bipolar II Disorder – This disorder is characterized by a sequence of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. This does not include, however, the very severe or week-long manic episodes that are typically seen in Bipolar I.
• Cyclothymic Disorder – This disorder is characterized by episodes of hypomanic symptoms as well as multiple episodes of depression that lasts at least two years.

Signs of Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder often experience episodes of very intense emotions, disturbances in sleep patterns, and engage in uncharacteristic behavior when in a manic or hypomanic state.

You may also have bipolar disorder even if your symptoms appear less severe. For example, during a hypomanic episode, a person may feel fine and be able to keep up with daily life. Without proper treatment, however, people who have experienced hypomania may develop severe mania or depression.

Are There Treatments for Bipolar Disorder?

YES! Once you have been diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, which usually involves a psychiatric assessment, and several other test, Dr. Gardner and her team will create the best treatment plan for you.

This article published by WebMD is a great resource to get additional information on treatments and diagnosing for Bipolar Disorder. You will need to discuss these treatment plans with your doctor as they will be the ones managing your treatment progress.