What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by exaggerated changes in mood, thoughts, activity, energy levels and behavior. Due to the amplified expression of emotional “highs” and “lows” changes in mood are complicated to predict and difficult to manage. According to the National Institute of Mental Health bipolar disorder affects 5.7 million adult Americans, with the average age of onset being 25.

There are multiple types of Bipolar disorder:

Bipolar I Disorder is a subset of bipolar disorder in which people have experienced one or more episodes of mania.

Bipolar II Disorder is a subset of bipolar disorder in which people experience depressive and hypomanic episodes

Cyclothymic Disorder or Cyclothymia is a chronically unstable mood state in which people experience mild hypomania and mild depression

Bipolar disorder symptoms can vary depending on the individual. You may have depressive episodes, manic episodes, or “mixed” episodes with both manic and depressive elements:

Common Symptoms of Mania/Hypomania:

Abnormally upbeat jumpy
Exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence (euphoria)
Decreased need for sleep
Racing thoughts
Distractibility
Poor decision making
Engaging in risky behaviors

Common Symptoms of Depression:

Feeling sad
Hopeless
Chronic fatigue or feeling “slow”
Changes in appetite-weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
Difficulty making decisions
Feeling inadequate
Deep cynicism
Loss of interest
No feelings of pleasure
Suicidal thoughts or thoughts about death

Diagnosis:

During your initial executive psychiatric interview Dr. Moore, your psychcierge will prudently evaluate your symptoms, medical & social history, diet and any other relevant factors such as life events and behaviors. She may also request lab tests to confirm or rule out a medical condition that may explain your symptoms.

Diagnosis is of bipolar disorder is made based upon an evaluation and comparison of your symptoms to the criteria established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5).

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?:

Dr. Moore customizes your treatment plan based on the type of bipolar disorder and severity of your symptoms. Dr. Moore utilizes a combination of medication management and therapy to treat bipolar disorder. During treatment planning, Dr. Moore will collaborate with you to design a plan that best attends to your needs and personal goals. Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition. However, consistent treatment is important to effectively manage your mood swings to optimize mental balance and quality of life.

Metamorphosis is a concierge care psychiatric practice. As our client you select how you would like to conduct your care appointments.

Psychcierge: Dr. Moore will travel to you to conduct your visit in-person.

Telehealth: You would like your visit to be conducted utilizing our HIPPA compliant telemedicine software.