What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that causes dramatic mood shifts, which can seriously disrupt daily routines. It’s often misunderstood and surrounded by stigma—misrepresented in casual talk and media. At Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, we work to clear up these misconceptions and share compassionate, accurate insights for those experiencing mood instability.
Living with bipolar disorder means facing intense highs and lows that can impact sleep, energy, and relationships. Too often, myths and stereotypes overshadow the real challenges of this condition. At Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, we’re committed to busting those myths and offering genuine, empathetic support for managing your moods.
Forms of Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar I vs Bipolar II
Bipolar disorder generally shows up in two main forms: Bipolar I and Bipolar II.
In Bipolar I, someone experiences at least one manic episode lasting seven days or more, usually followed by depressive periods that can last a couple of weeks. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Bipolar II involves alternating hypomania—less intense than full mania—and depressive episodes. Even though hypomania is milder, it still disrupts daily life and calls for attentive, personalized care.
Living with bipolar disorder means navigating powerful ups (mania or hypomania) and downs (depression), influencing sleep, energy, choices, and connections.
Manic Symptoms
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High energy levels
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Decreased need for sleep
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Racing thoughts or rapid speech
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Inflated self-esteem
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Impulsive or risky behavior
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Increased goal-directed activity
Depressive Symptoms:
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Persistent sadness or hopelessness
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Low energy or fatigue
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Changes in appetite or sleep
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Difficulty concentrating
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Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
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Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder features ongoing mood swings that are less intense than those in bipolar I or II. Those affected experience hypomanic and mild depressive episodes for at least two years without meeting the criteria for full mania or major depression. Early recognition and steady professional support are crucial for managing this pattern.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder
There isn’t a single test or brain scan that definitively identifies bipolar disorder. Psychiatrists or psychologists diagnose it through thorough evaluations, reviewing symptoms, medical history, and sometimes family input to ensure accuracy.
While counselors and therapists are key partners in managing symptoms, only a fully licensed psychiatric provider can make the formal diagnosis. Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness provides online assessments and tailored treatment strategies, all accessible from the comfort and privacy of your home.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Symptoms of bipolar disorder can overlap with anxiety, substance misuse, or even psychosis. At Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, we take a holistic approach, using precise assessments to clarify your needs and guide effective treatment.
Approximately 2.6% of American adults—about 5.7 million people— live with bipolar disorder. Although symptoms often start in late teens or early adulthood, early signs may appear in childhood or adolescence. Prompt intervention is essential.
Genetics can offer strong clues about bipolar disorder, but environmental factors and brain chemistry also influence its development. Stressful life events, trauma, or chemical imbalances can trigger episodes, even without a family history.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder at Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Ongoing Support and Education
We’ve simplified telehealth access so you can connect with our expert team securely and conveniently, no matter where you are.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, don’t wait to get help. Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness offers confidential, professional care from licensed psychiatric providers. Schedule your evaluation today to start your journey toward balance and well-being.
Choosing to get support for bipolar disorder can be life-changing: it promotes emotional balance, helps improve everyday tasks, and uplifts your overall health. When individuals receive the right care, they often notice fewer and milder mood swings, stronger relationships, more consistent work performance, and a more peaceful, fulfilling life. Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness offers an empathetic and dependable virtual care program, guided by experienced, licensed professionals. By combining evidence-based therapies with tailored medication regimens, we provide hands-on tools to manage emotional highs and lows, so clients feel empowered and engaged throughout their mental health journey.
Our experienced psychiatric specialists are here to support you.
Managing bipolar disorder and finding relief from its ups and downs is achievable with the right resources. Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness provides an excellent starting point for your recovery journey.