Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood condition characterized by episodes of abnormally elevated mood (mania or hypomania) alternating with episodes of depression. It affects approximately 4.4% of U.S. adults at some point in their lives and typically emerges in the late teens to mid-20s.
Bipolar disorder is frequently misdiagnosed — often as depression alone — because patients are more likely to seek help during depressive episodes. Accurate diagnosis is critical because the treatment approach differs significantly from standard depression treatment.
Antidepressants alone can trigger manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. That's why a thorough evaluation that examines your lifetime mood history — not just current symptoms — is essential. Proper diagnosis leads to proper treatment.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I Disorder
Characterized by full manic episodes lasting at least 7 days (or requiring hospitalization). Manic episodes involve dramatically elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, impulsive behavior, and grandiosity. Depressive episodes also occur but are not required for diagnosis.
Bipolar II Disorder
Involves hypomanic episodes (less severe than full mania) alternating with major depressive episodes. Hypomania is often experienced as a productive "high" — increased energy, decreased sleep need, elevated mood — but it can still impair judgment and lead to risky decisions.
Cyclothymic Disorder
A milder form with chronic fluctuating mood involving periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don't meet criteria for full episodes. Despite being "milder," it still significantly impacts quality of life.
Our Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Comprehensive Evaluation (60 minutes)
- Detailed lifetime mood history — episodes of depression, mania, and hypomania
- Family history assessment (bipolar has a strong genetic component)
- Standardized mood screening (MDQ, Mood Disorder Questionnaire)
- Evaluation for co-occurring conditions (anxiety, ADHD, substance use)
- Accurate differential diagnosis and personalized treatment plan
Medication Management
Medication is the cornerstone of bipolar treatment:
- Lithium — gold-standard mood stabilizer, effective for both mania and depression prevention
- Lamotrigine (Lamictal) — particularly effective for bipolar depression and maintenance
- Valproic acid (Depakote) — effective for acute mania and rapid cycling
- Atypical antipsychotics — quetiapine (Seroquel), aripiprazole (Abilify), olanzapine for mood stabilization
Therapy
- Psychoeducation: Understanding your condition, recognizing early warning signs, developing relapse prevention plans
- CBT for Bipolar: Managing cognitive distortions that arise during both depressive and manic states
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Stabilizing daily routines and sleep patterns to prevent mood episodes
Tracking your mood, sleep, and energy daily helps your provider identify patterns and catch episodes early. We'll help you set up a simple tracking system that works for you — even a quick daily 1-10 rating can provide valuable data over time.
How Bipolar Treatment Works at EnnHealth
Book Online
Schedule a psychiatric evaluation via our live calendar
Evaluation
Comprehensive mood assessment with lifetime history review
Stabilization
Start medication and build a mood management plan
Ongoing Care
Regular follow-ups to maintain stability and prevent relapse
Why Choose EnnHealth for Bipolar Care
- Accurate diagnosis: Thorough evaluation that examines your complete mood history to ensure proper diagnosis.
- Expert medication management: Experienced with all mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, and adjunctive treatments.
- Same provider every visit: Continuity of care is essential for bipolar management.
- Telehealth convenience: Regular follow-ups from home make it easier to maintain consistent treatment.
- Insurance accepted: In-network with Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, UHC, Humana, Oscar, Ambetter, Medicare, Tricare, and Molina.
- DPC option: Flat-rate plans from $99/month — no insurance needed.
Stability Is Within Reach
Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with a board-certified psychiatric provider who specializes in mood disorders. Telehealth appointments in 30+ states.
Schedule Your Evaluation →