Bipolar Disorder

There are several types of bipolar and related disorders. Symptoms can cause unpredictable changes in mood and behavior, resulting in a significantly reduced quality of life. Although bipolar disorder can occur at any age, it is typically diagnosed in the teenage years or early 20s.

• Bipolar I disorder: at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by major depressive episodes
• Bipolar II disorder: at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode
• Cyclothymic disorder: at least two years of many periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms

Mania and hypomania are two distinct types of episodes with similar symptoms, but mania is more severe and causes more significant problems in your social and work life. Mania may also trigger a break from reality (psychosis) and require hospitalization. Both include three or more of these symptoms:

• Increased activity or energy
• An abnormally upbeat mood
• A heightened sense of self-confidence
• A decreased need for sleep
• Racing thoughts and being easily distracted
• Irrational or foolish decisions

Depressive episodes can seriously damage your personal relationships and career goals, as well as your physical and mental well-being. An episode includes five or more symptoms, such as a depressed mood, insomnia or sleeping too much, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, significant weight changes, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Many patients benefit from medication management as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.