Bipolar Disorder

Unmanaged bipolar disorder can be exhausting, with constant shifts between manic episodes and deep depression. If you’re struggling with these intense mood swings, the team at DeNova in Lexington, Winchester, and Richmond, Kentucky, provides evaluations, medications, therapy, and ongoing support to help you reclaim your quality of life. Call the office closest to you today to schedule a consultation, or book an appointment online at your convenience.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition noted by extreme mood swings like emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). These sudden mood changes are intense and can be detrimental to your work, closest relationships, and sense of stability. The unpredictable mood and energy shifts can leave you feeling weary and out of sorts.

There are three main types of bipolar disorder. Each has its own distinct characteristics, but they all share the main symptom of significant mood instability. 

Bipolar 1

Bipolar 1 is the most severe form. It’s characterized by manic outbreaks that can last several days. While manic, you may feel irrationally ecstatic, excessively energetic, and completely out of control. The manic stage is followed by a bout of depression.

Bipolar 2

Bipolar 2 is typically less extreme than bipolar 1. Instead of full-on mania, you experience a milder form of mania called hypomania. While hypomanic, you may be unusually energetic and productive, but the symptoms may not disrupt your life. Unfortunately, the depressive stage that follows is quite severe and can cripple your ability to function. 

Cyclothymic

Cyclothymic disorder is the mildest form and is marked by moods that swing between mild depression and hypomania. The mood fluctuations are typically less volatile than those in bipolar 1 or 2, but can make you feel physically exhausted.

What causes bipolar disorder?

Several factors are thought to cause bipolar disorder, including:

• Genetics
• Brain structure and function
• Hormonal fluctuations

Environmental triggers like trauma or substance abuse can also lead to bipolar disorder.

Are there any treatment options for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is treatable with the right combination of therapies and medication that your provider at DeNova tailors to meet your specific needs.

Medications

Medications help stabilize your mood and prevent extreme highs and lows and may include:

• Mood stabilizers
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Anticonvulsants

Through trial and error, the DeNova team works with you to discover the right combination of prescription drugs to manage your condition. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is also an important part of your treatment. DeNova offers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and group therapy to help you:

• Manage stress triggers
• Overcome negative thoughts
• Deal with mood swings
• Improve communication
  

If you’re struggling to maintain your productivity and relationships because of volatile mood swings due to bipolar disorder, help is just a phone call away. You can also book a consultation online.