Bipolar

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes significant changes in mood, energy, activity level, and the ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression along with periods of unusually elevated mood, known as mania or hypomania.

During depressive episodes, you may feel hopeless, exhausted, or lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. During manic or hypomanic episodes, you may feel unusually energetic or confident, need less sleep than usual, or act more impulsively. The severity, duration, and frequency of these mood episodes vary from person to person.

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation helps your provider accurately diagnose bipolar disorder while ruling out other mental health conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder depend on whether you're experiencing a depressive episode or a manic or hypomanic episode. Many people also experience periods of emotional stability between mood episodes.

Symptoms of depression may include:

• Persistent sadness
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Low energy or fatigue
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Symptoms of mania or hypomania may include:

• Increased energy or activity
• Needing less sleep without feeling tired
• Racing thoughts
• Talking more than usual
• Increased self-confidence
• Impulsive or risky behaviors
• Becoming easily distracted

Without treatment, bipolar disorder can affect your relationships, career, finances, and overall well-being. Early diagnosis and ongoing care can help reduce mood episodes and improve long-term stability.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Your bipolar disorder treatment begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to better understand your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. Based on your individual needs, your provider develops a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce mood swings, help prevent future episodes, and support long-term emotional wellness.

Treatment may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Medication management
• Education about bipolar disorder
• Monitoring for symptom changes and medication effectiveness
• Ongoing telehealth follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed

Because bipolar disorder may occur alongside anxiety, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, or substance use concerns, your provider also evaluates your overall mental health to ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care.

If significant mood changes are interfering with your daily life, Oasis Health and Wellness can help. Call the office or book your telehealth appointment online today to begin building a plan for greater stability and lasting emotional wellness.