Psychiatrist for Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly referred to as manic-depressive illness, is a lifelong mental health condition that causes significant changes in mood, energy levels, thought processes, and behavior. These mood shifts, which include periods of extreme highs (manic or hypomanic episodes) and intense lows (depressive episodes), can last anywhere from a few hours to several months. They often interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and responsibilities.

Although individuals with bipolar disorder frequently experience these dramatic mood changes, they also go through periods of normal mood, known as euthymia, where they feel stable and balanced.

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are a key symptom of bipolar I disorder. To meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I disorder, an individual must experience at least one manic episode lasting at least a week or severe enough to require hospitalization. Mania involves periods of elevated or irritable mood, combined with noticeable changes in behavior, activity levels, and energy.

During a manic episode, individuals may:

• Feel overly happy, optimistic, or euphoric.
• Experience rapid speech and racing thoughts.
• Have an increased energy level and reduced need for sleep.
• Engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as excessive spending or unsafe driving.
• Display poor judgment or make grandiose plans.
• In severe cases, experience psychosis, including hallucinations or delusions.

Hypomanic Episodes

Hypomania, a less intense form of mania, is commonly associated with bipolar II disorder. Although hypomanic episodes are less disruptive to daily life, they still involve elevated mood and increased energy levels. Individuals in a hypomanic state may appear highly productive or creative, but family and friends often notice changes in their mood and behavior that deviate from their usual demeanor.

Depressive Episodes

Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder share many characteristics with major depressive disorder. These episodes are marked by extended periods of low mood and loss of interest in daily activities. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and low energy levels.
• Changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or loss.
• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
• Sleeping too much (hypersomnia) or too little (insomnia).
• Persistent thoughts of death or suicide.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate help by calling 911 or the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Why Is Bipolar Disorder No Longer Called Manic-Depressive Illness?

The term “manic-depressive illness” was commonly used in the past to describe bipolar disorder. However, the medical community has transitioned to the term “bipolar disorder” for several reasons:

• It more accurately reflects the range of mood states, including hypomania and depressive episodes.
• It reduces the stigma associated with the words “manic” and “mania.”
• It helps distinguish bipolar disorder from other mental health conditions with overlapping symptoms, such as depression or schizophrenia.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are four primary types of bipolar disorder, each defined by the pattern and severity of mood episodes:

• Bipolar I Disorder: Involves at least one manic episode lasting a week or requiring hospitalization, often accompanied by depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks. Individuals may also experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously.
• Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by episodes of hypomania and major depression, without the full-blown mania seen in bipolar I. While hypomania is less severe, the depressive episodes can be highly debilitating.
• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Defined by frequent mood fluctuations, including hypomanic and mild depressive symptoms, lasting at least two years. These symptoms may not meet the diagnostic criteria for full hypomanic or depressive episodes.
• Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar Disorders: Includes cases where symptoms of bipolar disorder are present but don’t fit neatly into the above categories.

How Does Bipolar Disorder Differ from Borderline Personality Disorder?

While bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD) share overlapping symptoms, such as mood swings, they are distinct conditions:

• Bipolar Disorder: Involves mood episodes that last days, weeks, or months and aren’t typically triggered by external events.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Involves rapid and unpredictable emotional changes, often in response to interpersonal conflicts. Self-injury is also more common in BPD.

Who Is Affected by Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder can develop at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in young adults. It affects men and women equally, though women are more likely to experience rapid cycling and depressive episodes. The condition also has a strong hereditary component, with many individuals having a family history of bipolar disorder or related mood disorders.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but researchers believe a combination of factors contributes to its development:

• Genetics: Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary link.
• Brain Structure and Chemistry: Abnormalities in brain function and neurotransmitter levels may play a role in mood regulation.
• Environmental Triggers: Stressful life events, trauma, or substance use can trigger episodes or exacerbate symptoms.

How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

Diagnosing bipolar disorder involves a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

• A physical exam and medical history to rule out other conditions.
• A detailed review of symptoms and mood patterns.
• Mental health assessments conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
• Input from family or close friends to provide additional context.

How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. A combination of the following approaches is often recommended:

Medications

• Mood Stabilizers: Help control manic and hypomanic episodes. Common options include lithium and valproic acid.
• Antipsychotics: Often prescribed for severe manic or mixed episodes.
• Antidepressants: May be used alongside mood stabilizers to prevent triggering mania.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Teaches strategies to manage negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Family Therapy: Helps improve communication and provide support within families.
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily routines and improving sleep patterns.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Establishing regular sleep schedules and healthy eating habits.
• Engaging in regular physical activity to support mental health.
• Managing stress through mindfulness techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
• Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, which can trigger mood episodes.

Can Bipolar Disorder Be Prevented?

While there’s no way to prevent bipolar disorder, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the severity and frequency of mood episodes, helping individuals lead more stable lives.

When To See A Psychiatrist for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can make navigating life’s challenges overwhelming, but effective treatment can help you achieve balance and stability. If mood swings, extreme highs and lows, or difficulty managing daily life are impacting you, it’s time to seek help. At PsychBright Health in Los Angeles, our skilled psychiatrists specialize in treating bipolar disorder with compassionate care and evidence-based approaches. Reach out today to start your journey toward improved mental health.