Bipolar Disorder
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Bipolar disorder causes patients to experience cyclical episodes of depression and mania. This disorder can disrupt the patient’s life considerably. Psychiatric Wellness Center offers diagnosis and treatment to patients with bipolar disorder in Bakersfield, California, and the surrounding area. Patients with the symptoms of this condition can make an appointment with an experienced physician by contacting Psychiatric Wellness Center.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental condition characterized by extreme mood swings. Patients with this disorder often experience periods of intense highs and lows. Bipolar disorder can be mild, or it can be debilitating. Either way, this condition usually requires professional treatment.
What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t known. However, researchers believe that this disorder occurs because of a combination of genetics and physical changes in the brain. Certain risk factors can raise a person’s chances of developing bipolar disorder, including:
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Having a relative with bipolar disorder
- Going through periods of high stress
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
The symptoms of bipolar disorder may vary and can range in severity. Most people with bipolar disorder experience alternating depression and mania. During periods of depression, patients may feel sad, tired, and empty. They may also have trouble with concentration, and they may experience sleep disturbances. During periods of mania, patients usually have unusually high energy. They may be talkative, impulsive, and easily distracted.
How does Psychiatric Wellness Center diagnose bipolar disorder?
When a patient comes in with the symptoms of bipolar disorder, the doctors at Psychiatric Wellness Center will begin by performing a psychiatric assessment to learn about the patient’s symptoms and mental status. To confirm a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, the doctor may ask the patient to keep track of their moods for a specific period of time. The final diagnosis of bipolar disorder will be made based on the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
What treatments are available for patients with bipolar disorder?
Patients with bipolar disorder usually need ongoing professional treatment, but they can improve their condition over time. Some of the treatments available for patients with bipolar disorder include:
- Medication – Many patients with bipolar disorder need medication to control their symptoms.
- Counseling – Patients with bipolar disorder may benefit from counseling and psychotherapy.
- Substance abuse treatment – If patients with bipolar disorder also struggle with addiction, substance abuse treatment can be beneficial.
