Bipolar Disorder

Health & Psychiatry

Psychiatrist located across Florida

With bipolar disorder, people experience rapid shifts in mood that interfere with daily life. Though a chronic condition, you can get treatment to control the mood swings and live a happy, healthy, and productive life. At Health & Psychiatry offices across Florida, the experienced and compassionate psychiatrist, Dinar Sajan, MD, and her team take a holistic approach to care. She develops personalized treatment plans for bipolar disorder, using cutting-edge therapies and techniques. To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or book one online today.

Bipolar Disorder FAQs

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder, previously called manic-depressive disorder, is a chronic mental health condition characterized by rapid shifts in mood. People living with bipolar disorder cycle between periods of high-energy and elation (manic), and bouts of low-energy, sadness, and hopelessness (depressive).

The shifts in mood may occur on occasion or several times a year. Your mood changes may affect many aspects of your life, including behavior, sleep, concentration, and activities.

Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of bipolar disorder, but theorize the mental health condition may develop due to biological changes in the brain. You may be more at risk of bipolar disorder if it runs in your family.

What are the types of bipolar disorder?

Dr. Sajan and her team classify your bipolar disorder into specific types based on the severity of your mood swings. The types include:

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder is the most severe and causes episodes of mania that may last seven or more days, followed by periods of depression that last two or more weeks. With Bipolar I disorder, your manic episodes may be so intense hospitalization is required.

Bipolar II disorder

With Bipolar II disorder, you may experience depressive episodes followed by periods of hypomania, which are less intense manic episodes.

Cyclothymic disorder

Cyclothymic disorder, also called cyclothymia, causes periods of depression and mania that occur over two years.

If you experience symptoms of bipolar disorder that don’t fit into one of the types, then your diagnosis may be considered “other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders.”

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

At Health & Psychiatry, Dr. Sajan and her team conduct a comprehensive initial psychiatric evaluation for all new patients to identify biological, psychological, and social factors that may play a role in your symptoms, as well as assist in the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. During your evaluation, she reviews your symptoms, medical and family history, and performs various tests to assess mood and mental health.

Getting a proper diagnosis is essential, so you get the most effective treatment for your bipolar disorder.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

The team develops personalized treatment plans for bipolar disorder after conducting an initial psychiatric evaluation. The details of your treatment plan may depend on the type of bipolar disorder you have and the severity of your symptoms. Your treatment plan may include a combination of:

Psychotherapy

With psychotherapy or talk therapy, Dr. Sajan and her team aim to help you identify and change your troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors using a variety of techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal social rhythm therapy.

Medication

To stabilize your mood, Dr. Sajan and her team may recommend various medications. Your medication management plan may include a combination of antipsychotics, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants.

For comprehensive and compassionate care for your bipolar disorder, call Health & Psychiatry, or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment today.