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Bipolar Disorder at Caritas Behavioral Health Services in Columbia, MD
Formerly termed manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder is a mental condition characterized by dramatic mood shifts: from deep bouts of depression to intense surges of mania.
While the exact cause of bipolar disorder is not known, we know that both environmental factors and genetics play a role. Individuals who have a family history of depression or bipolar disorder are more likely to develop bipolar disorder.
Both manic and hypomanic episodes typically span at least a week, marked by profound euphoria or irritability along with increased energy or activity.
These episodes can profoundly affect social interactions and occupational functioning, paired with at least three of these behavioral alterations:
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Decreased need for sleep (feeling well rested even with less sleep)
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Increased self-esteem
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Talking more than normal
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Uncontrollable, racing thoughts or quickly changing topics or ideas when talking
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An increase in activity
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Distractibility
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An increase in risky behavior (excessive spending, reckless driving, unusual promiscuity)
Hypomania is generally less intense and more brief than mania, typically around four days. While discernible to acquaintances, it rarely derails daily routines and often precedes a depressive mood phase.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
How common is bipolar disorder?
In the U.S., approximately 2.6% of the populace grapples with bipolar disorder. Its onset is typically during adolescence or early adulthood, mainly between the ages of 18 and 25.
The disorder presents itself in two variants: Bipolar I and Bipolar II. The former gets diagnosed upon the occurrence of a manic episode, while the latter upon a major depressive and a hypomanic episode.
The silver lining is that bipolar disorder is treatable. At Caritas Behavioral Health Services LLC, we offer therapeutic and medicinal interventions.
Your Caritas Behavioral Health Services LLC specialist will collaborate closely with you, devising the most fitting treatment blueprint tailored to your situation, paving the way for a more promising horizon.
Medication Management
For tackling depression, combining medication with therapy is often recommended. Our specialists curate a treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs. Regularly tracking your progress and adjusting medication accordingly is vital to ensure the best possible outcome.
Talk Therapy
Also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy serves as an effective treatment for various conditions, including depression. As it can take several forms, you and your therapist can choose the most suitable method based on your condition and symptoms. If necessary, talk therapy can complement medications and other treatments.
