Mindful is here to assist in diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depressive disorder. This illness includes extreme mood swings from highs (mania or hypomania) to lows (depression). Individuals may experience several bipolar episodes in one year, or may go years without an episode. In order to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you must have at least 3 or more symptoms of mania with a subsequent episode of five or more symptoms of major depression. There is also what is called ‘hypomania,’ which is a less severe type of mania that can still result in a bipolar disorder diagnosis. If untreated, mania can result in psychotic episodes and will ultimately result in a “crash” into depression.
If you or a loved one is concerned about mood swings, please review the list of symptoms of bipolar disorder below:
Both a manic and a hypomanic episode include three or more of these symptoms:
Major depressive episode:
Bipolar disorder can have a variety of negative impacts on functioning. Mania can cause an individual to overspend, engage in high-risk behaviors, result in legal troubles, and disrupt relationships. It is important for an individual with bipolar disorder to abstain from emotional and environmental triggers such as substance use and intense stress. Family history of bipolar disorder may additionally put an individual at risk. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness, but it can be managed. Treatment at Mindful may include medication management and group therapy, as well as referrals to individual and family psychotherapy. Mindful is here to help you reach stabilization. Call today.