Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a commonly misunderstood mental health disorder that can cause unpredictable mood and energy changes. At Aloha Integrative Health in San Diego, California, the experience mental health team leverages many types of treatments and coping strategies to provide comprehensive care for bipolar disorder. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re struggling with bipolar disorder. Call the practice today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and behavior that can interfere with daily function. People with this condition experience intense high and low emotions that last for days, weeks, or months. 

During a manic episode, bipolar disorder can cause euphoria, elation, and high energy. Hypomanic episodes, milder versions of mania, also cause overactivity and excited behaviors. Depressive episodes can lead to extreme sadness, hopelessness, and difficulty performing routine tasks.

Is there only one type of bipolar disorder?

There are several types of bipolar disorder, but the most common are:

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder causes at least one manic episode that lasts for seven days or longer. People with this disorder may also experience hypomanic and depressive episodes.

Bipolar II disorder

Individuals with bipolar II disorder experience depressive episodes that can shift into hypomanic episodes but never full mania.

Cyclothymic disorder

Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by persistently unstable moods for at least two years. While people with this condition can experience stable periods, they typically only last for eight weeks or less.

What does bipolar disorder feel like?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder depend on whether you experience a depressive, manic, or hypomanic episode. Telltale signs include:

• Extreme happiness or depression
• Feelings of invincibility
• Restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Hyperactivity
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Impulsive behaviors
• Agitation
• Loss of interest
• Lack of energy
• Suicidal thoughts

Recognizing the signs of bipolar disorder is a crucial part of managing the condition and seeking the appropriate treatment.

Does bipolar disorder have an underlying cause?

While there is no single cause of bipolar disorder, experts believe genetics, environment, and brain structure, and chemistry play roles in its development. Some people are more prone than others, but anybody can have bipolar disorder.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed and treated?

With a board-certified psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse, the team at Aloha Integrative Health can diagnose and treat bipolar disorder. The team performs a complete medical and family history review, issues questionnaires, and discusses your symptoms to diagnose your condition.

Once they have an accurate diagnosis, the team may recommend the following treatments:

• Mood-stabilizing medications
• Psychotherapy
• Nutritional management
• Ketamine infusion therapy
• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management techniques
• Reiki

With a holistic approach to care, the team can help relieve bipolar symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call Aloha Integrative Health today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.