Bipolar Disorder Specialist

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorders cause recurring changes in your mood, energy level, thinking, and behavior. These changes generally present themselves in cycles of mania and depression. They may be so intense that they have a significant impact on your life and behavior, but it depends on the type of bipolar disorder.

The three primary types of bipolar disorder are:

Bipolar I disorder

Patients with bipolar I disorder have one or more pronounced manic episode. They may experience a mixed episode of both manic and depressive symptoms, and also experience major depressive episodes.

Bipolar II disorder

Bipolar II disorder causes a pattern of one or more severe major depressive episodes with at least one hypomanic episode. You may also experience a mixed episode.

Cyclothymic disorder

This disorder is defined by numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms, but your symptoms aren’t severe enough to meet the criteria of a hypomanic or depressive episode.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

You may not experience all of these symptoms, but the following lists give an overview of manic and depressive symptoms. The symptoms of hypomania are the same as mania but less severe. Hypomania doesn’t usually cause problems because you can still fulfill your daily responsibilities.

Mania symptoms:

• Feeling very up or elevated sense of self-esteem
• Having lots of energy or feeling wired
• Increase in activity level
• Difficulty sleeping
• Talking very quickly
• Feelings of agitation or irritability
• Racing thoughts
• Risky behaviors (for example, spending too much money or seeking reckless sex)

Depression symptoms:

• Feelings of intense sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Very little energy
• Decreased activity levels
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Pervasive thoughts of worry
• Difficulty concentrating
• Eating too much or too little
• Thoughts about death or suicide

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Dr. Owens may prescribe a mood stabilizer, atypical antipsychotic, antidepressant, or a combination of these medications to stabilize your moods.

A variety of therapies can alleviate bipolar disorder symptoms, so your treatment plan includes the therapy that fits you and your needs. Some of your therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.

If you notice drastic changes to your mood, call Peachstate Psychiatric Services or book an appointment online.