Bipolar Disorder

At Animo Sano Psychiatry, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Bipolar Disorder, a complex mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and behavior that can make daily functioning challenging. However, with the right treatment, bipolar disorder can be effectively managed, helping individuals maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. Care is available through both in-person and telehealth visits to suit your needs.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition that causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior. These shifts can include episodes of mania or hypomania (high energy, elevated mood) and depression (low energy, feelings of hopelessness). Bipolar disorder is not just a series of mood swings—it can severely impact a person’s ability to function in daily life. There are two main types: Bipolar I (more severe mania) and Bipolar II (hypomania and depression). 

Bipolar I Disorder is characterized by manic episodes lasting at least seven days or requiring immediate hospitalization, often followed by depressive episodes. Bipolar II Disorder involves less intense hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes but no full-blown manic phases. Both types require a specialized approach to address their varied symptoms. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing the condition and improving quality of life. 

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

  • Episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated mood, irritability)
  • Periods of depression (low mood, loss of interest in activities)
  • Decreased need for sleep during mania, excessive sleeping during depression
  • Difficulty focusing or making decisions
  • Risky or impulsive behaviors during manic episodes
  • Feelings of worthlessness or suicidal thoughts during depressive episodes

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

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Genetics

Family history plays a significant role in the development of bipolar disorder.

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Brain Structure and Chemistry

Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

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Environmental Stressors

Major life changes, trauma, or prolonged stress can trigger episodes.

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Substance Use

Alcohol or drug misuse can worsen or trigger bipolar episodes.

How Animo Sano Psychiatry Treats Bipolar Disorder

Evaluation & Diagnosis: We provide thorough assessments to identify the specific type of bipolar disorder and any co-occurring conditions.

Personalized Treatment Plan: After diagnosis, our team creates a tailored plan combining medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Medication Management: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants are prescribed to balance mood swings and prevent future episodes.

Therapy: Psychoeducation is one form of therapy that can help patients and families understand their condition and recognize when they’re entering a manic or depressive state. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) aims to help identify patterns of thinking so patients can manage symptoms.

Other Conditions We Treat

We specialize in treating a variety of behavioral health conditions, including but not limited to:

Anxiety

ADHD

Depression

Trauma and PSDT

Sleep Disorders

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We have answers. Browse through our FAQ section to learn more about our psychiatry and behavioral health services, your first visit, and what to expect.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood, energy, and behavior. These cycles include episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity) and depressive periods (low mood, fatigue, disinterest). The shifts can be intense, unpredictable, and disruptive to daily life.

The two main types are:

  • Bipolar I Disorder, which involves full manic episodes (often lasting at least 7 days or requiring hospitalization), often paired with depressive episodes.
  • Bipolar II Disorder, which involves hypomania (a milder form of mania) together with depressive episodes, but without full-blown mania.

Each type requires a tailored diagnostic and treatment approach.

Bipolar disorder usually develops from a mix of biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Family history plays a significant role. Brain chemistry and structural differences in regions that regulate emotion, decision-making, and impulse control also contribute. Life stressors, substance use, or major life changes can trigger episodes in vulnerable individuals.

Treatment generally combines several strategies. Medications like mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or sometimes antidepressants help manage mood swings and prevent relapse. Therapy, including psychoeducation and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supports understanding patterns and coping strategies. Lifestyle adjustments—such as maintaining a stable sleep schedule, managing stress, and avoiding substances—are also critically important. At the core of treatment is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), applied when helpful in modifying patterns of thinking and response behaviors over time.

Advice and Insights from Animo Sano Psychiatry

  • Split image showing sudden mood changes and a woman holding a mask, representing emotional shifts in BPD and dual states in Bipolar Disorder.
  • Woman showing mixed emotions, representing the mood shifts in bipolar spectrum.
  • Long Acting Injectables (LAIs) preparation and individuals showing emotional and psychological effects of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Start Your Treatment Journey Today

At Animo Sano Psychiatry, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for Bipolar Disorder, helping patients achieve long-term stability and a higher quality of life. Our team is ready to support you every step of the way.