Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder Treatment Services Offered in Vienna and Sterling, VA

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by shifts in  mood  that impact level of functioning or may lead to changes in behavior, with these episodes ranging from days to weeks oscillating between mania and depression. At Inspire Behavioral Health our team is committed to guiding you through the symptoms of bipolar disorder and exploring the best treatment option for every individual.

What are the causes of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder affects millions of adults in the United States, with most individuals experiencing an onset of symptoms in early adulthood. In addition, bipolar disorder has a strong genetic link and commonly runs in families. Traumatic experiences, substance use, extreme stress, and differences in brain structure may also contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder in individuals with a predisposition for the illness.  

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Manic Episodes

During a manic episode, individuals may experience intense euphoria, boundless energy, rapid thoughts, impulsivity, and inflated self-esteem. Some individuals may also feel irritable, notice a decreased need for sleep, speak more quickly, and/or have racing thoughts or are easily distractable. An episode must last for a minimum of one week and result in changes in behavior that are noticeable by others in order to meet criteria for a manic episode.  

Hypomanic Episodes

Hypomanic episodes are characterized by similar symptoms as manic episodes, however the symptoms are often less severe and last for four days.

Major Depressive Episodes

Major depressive episodes are characterized by feelings of profound sadness, fatigue, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. Individuals may also experience changes in sleep and appetite (increase or decrease), feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and/or thoughts of death or suicide. In order to meet criteria for a major depressive episode, symptoms must last for a minimum of two weeks.

Different types of bipolar disorder:

Bipolar Disorder comes in 3 different types. You can learn below about each of them:

Bipolar I Disorder

In order to be diagnosed with bipolar I disorder, an individual must have experienced  at least one manic episode, often accompanied by depressive or hypomanic episodes and periods of neutral mood.

Bipolar II Disorder

In order to be diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, an individual must have experienced at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Often described as a milder form of bipolar disorder, cyclothymic disorder involves frequent mood swings including hypomanic and depressive symptoms, though less intense and disruptive than with bipolar I or II disorder. In order for an individual to meet criteria for cyclothymic disorder, they must experience symptoms for two years or longer, with symptoms lasting for at least half the time and no less than two months at a time.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Bipolar disorder is a treatable  condition that responds well to a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medications including mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants are often prescribed to help control mood swings and increase periods of mood stability. In many cases, finding the right medication and dosage may  involve some trial and error under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Psychotherapy geared toward helping individuals understand and manage their symptoms, , recognize warning signs, cope with stress, and adhere to medication regimen can be extremely helpful when combined with medication. Individuals may also learn communication skills and ways to improve their relationships, as well as work on managing symptoms of other co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and substance use.

To achieve freedom from bipolar disorder, call Inspire Behavioral Health today or book an in-person appointment at our Vienna VA, Fairfax VA or Sterling VA Offices or a telehealth appointment online.

At Inspire Behavioral Health we offer services such as MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PSYCHOTHERAPY, ADHD TESTING, TMS, SPRAVATO, PRIMARY CARE, MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS, PSYCHIATRIC GENETIC TESTING plus treatments for ADHD, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PTSD, BIPOLAR, OCD and PANIC DISORDER.