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Suffering from bipolar disorder can affect your quality of life. The team at Telepsych 4 You in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has the expertise and experience to evaluate, diagnose, and treat your condition. They also offer great compassion for those with mental health issues. Book a telehealth appointment by calling or scheduling a virtual visit through the online portal.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that presents with extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood swings can affect your ability to function in daily life, impacting your relationships, work, and overall well-being.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary depending on the type and its severity.
Bipolar I
In bipolar I disorder, you experience manic episodes that last for at least seven days or are severe enough to require immediate medical attention. These manic episodes are typically characterized by:
- Euphoria
- Extreme irritability
- Increased energy
- Racing thoughts
- Risky behavior
Depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder involve:
- Persistent feelings of sadness
- Hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Fatigue
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Bipolar II
Bipolar II disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of depression and hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania. Hypomanic episodes involve similar symptoms to manic episodes but are less intense and do not cause significant impairment in functioning.
What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. You’re at a higher risk of developing the condition if you have a family history of bipolar disorder.
Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, may also play a role in the development of bipolar disorder.
How is bipolar disorder treated?
Your Telepsych 4 You provider may treat you with a combination of medication and psychotherapy and recommend lifestyle changes as well. Your provider may prescribe mood stabilizers to manage mood swings and prevent episodes of mania and depression. They may also prescribe antidepressants cautiously in combination with mood stabilizers to treat depressive symptoms, as they can trigger manic episodes.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help you manage bipolar disorder symptoms, cope with stress, and improve your relationships.
Lifestyle changes can also be beneficial. These include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, exercising regularly, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and seeking support from friends and family.
If you suffer from bipolar disorder symptoms, call Telepsych 4 You today to set up an evaluation via telehealth. You can also book an appointment online.