Bipolar disorder may begin in teens and rarely in children, but the first signs typically appear in young adults. Seeking early treatment from the skilled team at Sunshine Psychiatry in Fort Myers, Florida, can reduce the severity and number of mood swings you experience throughout this lifelong disorder. Their experienced outpatient care helps people of all ages stay healthy and able to manage a fulfilling life. If you’re concerned about bipolar symptoms, don’t wait to connect with Sunshine Psychiatry. Call today or request an in-person or telepsychiatry appointment online for an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes swings between high-energy mania and low-energy depression. Your mood swings aren’t always severe and may not occur frequently. It depends on the type of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I disorder causes episodes of severe mania and major depressive disorder (MDD). You only need to experience one manic episode to be diagnosed with bipolar I disorder, but many people have future episodes.
Manic episodes last at least one week and are often so severe you need in-patient care. Having four or more episodes of mania or depression in one year is considered rapid mood cycling.
Bipolar II disorder causes MDD and hypomania, which is less severe than full-blown mania. Hypomania seldom disrupts your life — it often gives you a positive, productive burst of energy — and may only last four days rather than a full week.
This type of bipolar disorder causes mild depression and hypomania, but they last a long time, and you have frequent mood swings. Cyclothymic disorder symptoms last at least two years; during that time, you have symptoms at least half the time.
Despite the difference in symptom severity, mania and hypomania both cause the following:
Bipolar I disorder may cause delusions and hallucinations.
People with MDD and mild depression experience symptoms such as:
Depression symptoms last two weeks or longer.
Bipolar disorder is often difficult to diagnose or misdiagnosed as depression. The Sunshine Psychiatry team works together to ensure you have the most accurate diagnosis and customized treatment that meets your unique needs.
Medication management is essential for stabilizing your mood and preventing future mood swings. Your comprehensive treatment also includes therapy and lifestyle changes. For example, many people with bipolar disorder have insomnia that triggers mood swings.
For compassionate care from skilled psychiatric professionals, call Sunshine Psychiatry or book an appointment online today.