Moody or Something More? Understanding the Signs of Bipolar Disorder
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What is Bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder isn’t just about mood swings—it’s a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The good news? With the right combination of medication, psychiatric care, and holistic lifestyle changes, stability is possible. In this blog, we’ll dive into the symptoms of bipolar disorder and explore how medication and integrative approaches can help you regain control. 💙
Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Types & Symptoms Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and focus. It is divided into several types:
Bipolar I Disorder – Defined by manic episodes lasting at least seven days or requiring hospitalization, often alternating with depressive episodes.
Bipolar II Disorder – Characterized by hypomanic episodes (less intense and shorter duration) and major depressive episodes.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia) – A milder form with frequent mood fluctuations that don’t meet full criteria for mania or major depression.
Recognizing the Symptoms Bipolar symptoms vary but can include:
Mania: High energy, less need for sleep, impulsive decisions, and grandiosity.
Depression: Feeling drained, hopeless, and struggling with focus.
Hypomania: A milder form of mania that can still disrupt daily life.
Rapid Mood Screen Questionnaire 📝
If you suspect you may have bipolar disorder, ask yourself:
Have there been at least 6 different periods of time (at least 2 weeks) when you felt deeply depressed?
Did you have problems with depression before the age of 18?
Have you ever had to stop or change your antidepressant because it made you highly irritable or hyper?
Have you ever had a period of at least 1 week during which you were more talkative than normal with thoughts racing in your head?
Have you ever had a period of at least 1 week during which you felt any of the following: unusually happy; unusually outgoing; or unusually energetic?
Have you ever had a period of at least 1 week during which you needed much less sleep than usual and still felt energetic?
Have your mood shifts significantly affected your work, relationships, or daily responsibilities?
If you answered "yes" to multiple questions, consider speaking with a mental health professional for further evaluation. 📞
How Medication Can Help 💊
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I prescribe medications to help with the chemical imbalances in the brain such as:
Mood stabilizers
Antipsychotics
Holistic Mental Health Support 🌱
Medication is key, but a holistic approach—including therapy, mindfulness, and exercise—can make a difference with stability.
📲 Wondering if you are experiencing bipolar disorder? Don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Michaeline Steves, PMHNP, at Open Mind Wellness today!
Click the "Book Now" to schedule an appointment
📞or call (214) 571-7954 to book a consultation.
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