Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood changes from mania to depression. Bipolar disorder's original description was manic depression. 

Bipolar disorder takes two forms: 

Bipolar I 

People with bipolar I disorder experience severe mood swings from depression to mania. 

Bipolar II 

People with bipolar II disorder experience mood swings from depression to hypomania, a less intense form of mania.

Bipolar disorder involves both depression and mania symptoms. 

Some symptoms of depression include:

• Difficulty concentrating and focusing
• Depressed or low moods
• Lack of interest and pleasure in usual activities
• Lack of motivation
• Changes in weight and appetite 
• Sleep disturbance
• Fatigue
• Tearful or crying episodes
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or helplessness

Some symptoms of mania include:

• Difficulty concentrating and focusing
• Inflated self-esteem and grandiosity
• Decreased need for sleep
• Talkative or pressured speech
• Racing thoughts
• Easily distracted
• Excessive energy - increased goal directed activity
• Risk taking behaviors
• Elevated expansive mood
• Irritability 

Bipolar disorder is a manageable condition. Most Bipolar patients need combinations of medications plus therapy. It may take time to find the right combination of medication for you. At River Oaks Psych we offer medication, therapy, referrals for intensive therapy, and treatment plans, while monitoring your progress to help you manage your life.