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If you suffer from bipolar disorder, you can rely on the expertise of mental health expert Thomas Pearson, PA-C, at Point of View Mental Health in Scottsdale, Arizona. He diagnoses and treats patients in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the surrounding area. He can help regulate your moods and emotions so you can experience a high quality of life. Call the friendly staff now to book an appointment or click online as a convenient option.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition known to cause extreme mood swings that include episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. These mood episodes can vary in duration and severity, significantly affecting your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall functioning.
The condition typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, although it can develop at any age.
The three main types of bipolar disorder include:
Bipolar I
Bipolar I involves at least one manic episode, possibly followed by hypomania or major depression. Mania features elevated mood, impulsivity, and risky behavior, sometimes requiring hospitalization.
Bipolar II
Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes alternating with major depression. Hypomania resembles mania but is less severe and usually doesn't require hospitalization. Depressive episodes are severe.
Cyclothymic
Cyclothymic disorder features chronic mood swings between hypomania and depression, though less severe than full episodes. Still, it can impact functioning and quality of life.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on the type and phase of your illness. During manic or hypomanic episodes, you may experience:
- Elevated mood
- Increased energy
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsivity
- Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities
- Decreased need for sleep
- Inflated self-esteem
In contrast, depressive episode symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
If you experience any of these signs, call Point of View Mental Health for an appointment for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Moreover, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately if you have thoughts of death or suicide.
How is bipolar disorder treated?
At Point of View Mental Health, Thomas typically treats bipolar disorder with a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.
He may prescribe a mood stabilizer to balance your moods and prevent episodes of mania or depression. He may also prescribe antidepressants or other medications to manage depressive symptoms, although they’re often prescribed cautiously to avoid triggering manic episodes.
Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and interpersonal therapy, can help you manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve functioning.
Lifestyle modifications like maintaining a regular sleep schedule, minimizing stress, avoiding substance use, and engaging in regular exercise and self-care can also support your overall well-being and symptom management.
If you have signs of bipolar disorder, reach out to Point of View Mental Health today by phone or online to schedule a consultation.