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What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior. These mood changes typically range from emotional highs (mania or hypomania) to lows (depression).

There are several types of bipolar disorder, including:

  • Bipolar I Disorder: Defined by manic episodes lasting 7 days or requiring hospitalization. Depressive episodes often follow
  • Bipolar II Disorder: Involves recurring depressive episodes and milder hypomanic episodes
  • Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that last for at least two years, though symptoms may not meet full criteria for a diagnosis

Symptoms can vary between individuals. Untreated bipolar disorder can disrupt work, school, and relationships. It often appears in late adolescence or early adulthood, although it’s also known to affect children.

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Recognizing Symptoms

Each person’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique. However, common symptoms include:

During Depressive Episodes:

  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Fatigue or lack of energy
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Difficulty concentrating or indecision
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

During Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:

  • Increased energy or activity levels
  • Elevated or irritable mood
  • Inflated self-esteem or grandiose thoughts
  • Rapid speech or racing thoughts
  • Impulsive decisions or risky behaviors
  • Decreased need for sleep
These cycles can be distressing and confusing, especially without a clear diagnosis. That’s why early evaluation and ongoing care are key.

Our Approach to Bipolar Treatment

Medication Management

Mood-stabilizing medications can help reduce the severity and frequency of episodes. Our psychiatrists and nurse practitioners provide ongoing medication management to support symptom control, with a focus on safety, education, and collaboration.

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Individual Therapy

Therapy helps you understand your symptoms, manage stressors, and recognize early warning signs of mood shifts. We use proven methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and psychodynamic approaches.
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Integrated Care

We recognize that bipolar disorder often overlaps with other mental health concerns, such as anxiety or trauma. Our team collaborates across all areas to support your full mental health picture. We also offer support for families who want to better understand their loved one’s condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

A diagnosis is based on clinical interviews, symptom history, and, in some cases, psychological testing. We’ll listen closely to understand your experience and provide a diagnosis tailored to your needs.
Treatment plans will always be unique to you. Some patients stay on medication for years while others adjust over time. Your provider will talk with you about long-term options and make recommendations based on your progress.

Our child and adolescent psychiatrists are skilled in identifying and treating bipolar disorder in younger patients, using age-appropriate tools and support strategies.