Bipolar Disorder (previously referred to as “manic depression”) is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings. Someone’s mood can shift from extreme highs (mania or hypomania) to extreme lows (depression). The frequency of these shifts varies from one person to another.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
Researchers are still trying to determine exactly what causes bipolar disorder. With that said, studies suggest that this condition may develop due to genetics or physical changes within the brain.
What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder symptoms vary depending on the type of episode that someone is experiencing. For example, when someone is having a manic or hypomanic episode, they may:
- Feel euphoric and upbeat
- Be increasingly self-confident
- Have more energy than usual
- Experience racing thoughts
- Get easily distracted
- Become irritated more frequently than usual
- Make poor decisions
But when someone enters into a depressive episode, they may instead:
- Feel sad, empty, hopeless, guilty, and worthless
- Lose interest in the activities they once enjoyed
- Have unexplained changes in their appetite and weight
- Feel more tired than usual
- Sleep too much or experience insomnia
- Have trouble thinking, concentrating, and making decisions
- Experience suicidal thoughts
If you’ve been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder—or if you suspect that you might have this condition—we can assist you. We’re highly experienced in supporting the treatment of Bipolar Disorder, and we’ll draw on this background to supply you with the knowledgeable, caring therapy you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a telephonic consultation to determine if I am best suited to support you individually in gaining the skills, tools, strategies needed to positively impact your life and well-being.
