One type of bipolar disorder causes severe mood swings that alter your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. But you can also have other types with less severe symptoms. The mental health professionals at Notre Dame Behavioral Health diagnose and treat all types of bipolar disorder. The team provides intensive medication management that stabilizes your moods, one of the most important aspects of your treatment. Whether you need a psychological evaluation or ongoing treatment, call the office in Surprise, Arizona, or book an in-person or telemedicine appointment online today.
Bipolar disorder used to be known as manic-depressive disorder. The original name reflects the disorder's hallmark symptoms of mood swings between high-energy mania and low-energy depression.
However, there are three types of bipolar disorder:
This is the current name for manic-depressive disorder. With bipolar I disorder, you have manic episodes that last at least a week or cause such severe symptoms you need inpatient treatment. You also have episodes of major depression.
If you have bipolar II disorder, you have episodes of major depression and hypomania. Hypomania causes noticeable changes, but your symptoms are less severe than with bipolar I mania. Most people with bipolar II disorder can keep up with their normal responsibilities and activities.
Cyclothymic disorder causes frequent mood swings, but your symptoms are less severe than with hypomania and major depression. People who have cyclothymic disorder have a higher risk of developing bipolar I or II disorder.
When you have a full-blown episode of mania, your symptoms include:
In severe episodes of mania, you may have hallucinations or delusions.
During an episode of major depression, you have symptoms such as:
Major depression often causes headaches, digestion problems, and muscle aches.
The most effective treatment plan for bipolar disorder combines medications and therapy. However, mood stabilizing medications form the foundation of your long-term bipolar care.
It may take some trial-and-error to find the best medication and dose. But once you're on an effective course, the medication controls your mania and depression and helps prevent a symptom relapse after your mood stabilizes.
Therapy supports any aspect of your life affected by bipolar disorder. Talking with a counselor can help with issues such as building relationships, reducing stress, learning the signs of an impending mood swing, and dealing with intense emotions.
If you need support for bipolar disorder, call Notre Dame Behavioral Health, or book an appointment online today.