What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue that leads to significant fluctuations in mood and energy levels. While mood swings are common for many, those with bipolar disorder endure more severe changes in mood and emotions, which can disrupt their ability to manage daily tasks and personal care. Once referred to as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a condition that individuals will manage throughout their lives, typically identified in young adulthood. If you're coping with the impacts of a manic or depressive episode, Serenity Mental Health Centers in Phoenix, AZ is here to offer assistance. Our commitment is to aid our patients in achieving equilibrium through a variety of treatment options tailored to their needs.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Our team is well aware that navigating the path to the right bipolar disorder treatment is a personalized journey. This condition can be managed with medication, including mood stabilizers and antidepressants, and psychotherapy is often a beneficial approach for those diagnosed with bipolar disorder. While some individuals may respond well to these treatments or their combinations, others might experience side effects that are hard to tolerate. Consequently, we provide alternative treatments for bipolar disorder, like ketamine IV therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, to offer more options. With a comprehensive array of treatment possibilities, we aim to assist each patient in finding the treatment or mix of treatments that will enable them to enjoy a balanced and rewarding life.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Common symptoms of bipolar disorder can differ depending on the type of episode. During manic episodes, symptoms may include:
- Increased energy or restlessness
- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
- Reduced need for sleep
- Impulsive or risky behavior
During depressive episodes, symptoms often include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
The causes of bipolar disorder are complex and may involve a combination of factors, including:
- Genetic factors such as abnormalities in brain structure or function
- Environmental triggers such as high stress, traumatic events, or substance abuse
Early recognition and treatment are vital for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
What Are the Risk Factors of Bipolar Disorder?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can emerge following direct exposure to or witnessing traumatic events, though several factors can elevate the risk of its development. Contributing risk factors for PTSD include:
- Exposure to traumatic incidents Involvement in or witnessing physical assaults, accidents, military conflicts, or natural disasters
- Childhood trauma Experiences of neglect, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse during early years
- Professions with high exposure to trauma Jobs in the military, emergency response, or healthcare sectors where trauma exposure is more frequent
- Genetic mental health risks A family history suggesting a genetic vulnerability to mental health disorders like anxiety or depression
- Limited social support Experiencing social isolation or having restricted access to emotional support following traumatic events
- Existing psychological conditions Presence of anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders prior to the traumatic event
- Continuous exposure to trauma Enduring stress from ongoing abusive relationships or hazardous living conditions
- Substance misuse Engagement in alcohol or drug use that may hinder effective coping mechanisms
- Neurological imbalances Disruptions in the regulation of stress hormones that impact emotional responses
- Intense or extended exposure to trauma Encountering trauma that is either particularly severe or prolonged
Bipolar Disorder Reviews
Have not seen a doctor in years and this place for my mental health was amazing. I appreciate the staff and doctors for absolutely giving me my life back. It means a world of difference.
Serenity Mental health centers is a five star experience. From the providers to the patient advocates to the front desk associates everyone is focused on providing the best experience and helping you get better. I was nervous and apprehensive for my first appointment. The center did an excellent job of text reminders and phone calls. They were very accommodating to my meet over the phone I never felt rushed And none of our interactions felt transactional. I arrived at a beautiful building, meticulously decorated, and very welcoming. Dr. Brooks was the best provider I have had the pleasure of being in the care of. He listen to me, he challenged some of my thought processes, and ultimately he came up with an individualized plan for my care. I truly wish everyone could experience this level of care and satisfaction. If you have the opportunity, please give Serenity Mental Health Centers a chance to provide you with the care you’ve been looking for.
The most caring, compassionate, knowledgeable mental health center, Serenity Mental Health has provided a safe space for me to get the mental health care I need. Everyone is looked at by their individual needs. No cookie cutter one way suits all. Five stars is not enough. Dr Gazda is my doctor. And he is very knowledgeable as to what will help me with my mental health. I am grateful to have him as my doctor. I have recommended Serenity and my Dr Gazda to other people that I know would benefit.
I have seen many psychiatrists,and have felt like just a number, they didnt listen to my input or feelings. Dr. McClure has been a Godsend, he sets the standard and really raises the bar for the rest of them, I have struggled for years with multiple issues, Anxiety, depression, bi-polar, anger, insomnia, When I first saw Dr. McClure, I was taking an unbelievable amount of Xanax. Together we have tapered it down tremendously. And I say we, because my mental state of mind and voice mattered. We haven't always seen eye to eye, but he explains why he does what he does. Dr. McClure truly cares about his patients and their families. I still struggle on occasion , but look forward to my appointments with Dr McClure. He is very knowledgeable, understanding, and caring. I would definitely recommend him to anyone. I will continue to see Dr McClure, he is the best out there Respectfully, Thomas Largo Jr . I am posting again, because I'm hoping my experience's with Dr. McClure can benefit and give hope with those who are struggling with any type of mental or behavioral issue. I trust Dr. McClure a lot, I am 59 years old and have been through multiple issues, anger, anxiety, depression, bi-polar, marriage issues and other issues. Even when I had no insurance, I still continued to see Dr. McClure, and Serenity worked with me on payments. I have seen many different psychiatrists and I know we are all different and have and deal with issues differently. The difference between Dr McClure and others is he is a true professional and has a genuine care for his patients and listens to his patients and speaks to them with sincerity and with their well being being his ultimate goal. I look forward to my appointments with him. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is struggling in their attempt to get the help they need. You will not regret it Best wishes and stay strong Sincerely, Thomas Largo Jr
Dr. McClure was amazing. He was calm, gracious, and took the time to really get to know me. This is an excellent facility for mental health. If you were looking to better yourself, I would suggest making an appointment today.
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Live A Balanced Life
Bipolar disorder impacts various facets of a person's life, influencing behaviors, emotional states, and interactions with family and friends. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, patients have the opportunity to collaborate with our expert team to discover a treatment approach that suits them best. We are committed to offering guidance and support and assisting our patients in regaining control over their lives. Contact our Phoenix, AZ location to request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bipolar disorder genetic?
Bipolar disorder has a genetic component and often runs in families, increasing the risk for those with a family history. However, genetics alone do not guarantee the disorder will develop, as they interact with environmental factors that also play a crucial role in its onset.
What are the early signs of bipolar disorder?
Early signs of bipolar disorder often involve noticeable mood swings and behavioral changes, including:
- Mood swings that include high highs and low lows
- Changes in sleep
- More impulsive behaviors and irritability
- Changes in energy levels
What is the difference between depression and bipolar disorder?
While bipolar disorder can include periods of depression, it is distinct from depression itself. Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. In contrast, bipolar disorder encompasses these depressive symptoms along with extreme mood swings between depressive episodes and periods of mania or hypomania. Unlike depression, bipolar disorder features episodes of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and impulsive behavior.
Is bipolar disorder just extreme mood swings?
No, bipolar disorder is more than occasional mood changes. It involves severe mood episodes that last longer and are more intense than typical mood fluctuations, often requiring professional treatment.
What types of bipolar disorder exist?
There are several types of bipolar disorder. Bipolar I includes full manic episodes, while Bipolar II features less intense hypomanic episodes and severe depressive episodes. Cyclothymic disorder involves milder mood shifts that still affect daily life.
Can bipolar disorder run in families?
While bipolar disorder isn’t directly inherited, a family history of the condition can increase the risk. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development.