Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is a common mental health condition, affecting about 2.8% of American adults in the last year. There’s no cure, but psychotherapy and prescription medication can relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life. At KAVN Health in Columbia, Maryland, the team specializes in bipolar treatment. Call the nearest KAVN Health office to schedule a bipolar disorder consultation, or book your appointment online today. Telemedicine appointments are available for patients living in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and Washington, DC. 

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes extreme fluctuations in mood, energy levels, and behavior. These fluctuations can last for days, weeks, or months, affecting your ability to work and do other activities. 

Several types of bipolar disorder exist. Regardless, living with bipolar disorder isn’t always ups and downs. People with the condition often experience periods of normal mood, called euthymia. 

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder symptoms include:

• Excessive happiness, hopefulness, or excitement
• Sudden and severe changes in mood
• Restlessness
• Increased energy and a reduced need for sleep
• Increased impulsivity and poor judgment
• Feelings of unusual importance or power
• Making grand, unattainable plans
• Rapid speech and racing thoughts

During manic periods, those with bipolar disorder often make impulsive decisions. For example, you might quit your job, use drugs, or have unprotected sex. 

Should I see a psychiatrist if I think I have bipolar disorder?

Yes. Make an appointment at KAVN Health if you frequently experience manic or depressive episodes. That’s especially true if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Intervention and treatment can prevent episodes from worsening and significantly improve your quality of life. 

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

To diagnose bipolar disorder, the KAVN Health team completes a physical exam, orders medical tests, like bloodwork and urinalysis, and completes a mental health evaluation. During the mental health evaluation, your provider asks about your symptoms, thoughts, and lifestyle. 

Answer their questions honestly and provide as much information as possible. Your responses help confirm a diagnosis and guide treatment.

After gathering a complete picture of your physical and mental health, your provider compares your symptoms to the criteria for bipolar disorder in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). If you meet the criteria and have had at least one episode of mania or hypomania, your provider confirms the diagnosis.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

The KAVN Health team treats bipolar disorder using an integrative and patient-centered approach. They might suggest:

• Psychotherapy (counseling)
• Prescription medication
• Self-management strategies, like how to identify the early symptoms of an episode
• Healthy lifestyle practices, such as yoga and meditation
• Alternative treatments, like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Often, people with bipolar disorder benefit from several treatments. Your provider monitors your progress at regular checkups, adjusting your care plan as needed.

Call the nearest KAVN Health office to schedule a bipolar consultation, or book your appointment online today.