What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings such as emotional highs often referred to as mania or hypomania and emotional lows often referred to as depression. The cause of the bipolar disorder is not entirely known but appears to be due to an interaction of genetic, epigenetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors.

Bipolar disorder is classified into Bipolar I disorder and Bipolar II disorder.

• A person with bipolar I disorder has experienced at least one manic episode that may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes.
• An individual with bipolar II disorder has experienced at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but never a manic episode.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Manic episodes include:

• elevated or irritable mood
• increased activity or energy
• impulsiveness
• racing thoughts
• difficulty concentrating,
• poor decision-making
• talkativeness
• decreased need for sleep.
• engaging in risky behaviors

At Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services, we utilize evidence-based and individualized treatment approaches that meet the needs of our patients and improve their well-being and quality of life. Contact us today for questions and your treatment needs.