Bipolar Disorder

Extreme mood fluctuations and impulsive decision-making are indicators of bipolar disorder. At Abisom Behavioral Health LLC in The Woodlands, Texas, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Omotayo Sofela, PMHNP, treats bipolar disorder in people aged 12 and older. Schedule an in-person or virtual evaluation by phone or request one online today.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health concern characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from severe depression to feeling euphoric (overjoyed). When not addressed, bipolar disorder can have negative consequences on your quality of life by lessening your grades at school, performance at work, or the quality of your interpersonal relationships.

Which symptoms can bipolar disorder cause?

The symptoms associated with bipolar disorder depend on if you’re in a depressive or manic state. You might experience:

• Depression cycled with extreme happiness
• Poor or impulsive decision-making
• Going on large shopping sprees
• Feeling very tired or extremely energized
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Substance misuse
• Relationship challenges
• Feeling worthless
• Thoughts of suicide
• Being very quiet cycled with extreme talkativeness
• Inability to concentrate
• Indecisiveness
• Problems at work or school

See an Abisom Behavioral Health LLC specialist at the first sign of a problem to reduce the risk of complications and severe life-altering actions.

What may increase my risk of bipolar disorder?

Though the cause isn’t fully understood, risk factors for developing bipolar disorder may include:

• Family history of bipolar disorder
• Brain changes
• Trauma
• Extreme or ongoing stress
• Drug or alcohol misuse

While you can’t necessarily avoid bipolar disorder if you’re prone to it, treatment helps you thrive and live your best life.

How does a specialist diagnose bipolar disorder?

Abisom Behavioral Health LLC diagnoses bipolar disorder after completing a comprehensive mental health evaluation. Your provider discusses your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, moods, behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. 

The different types of bipolar disorder include:

• Bipolar disorder I: at least one manic episode paired with hypomanic episodes or major depression
• Bipolar disorder II: at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode (but no manic episodes)
• Cyclothymic disorder: at least two years of hypomania symptoms in adults (at least one year in kids and teenagers) with periods of depression

Your behavioral health specialist customizes a mental health treatment that matches your needs and goals. 

What can treat bipolar disorder?

Treating bipolar disorder often consists of the following:

Lifestyle change counseling

Adopting healthy habits can help you better cope with mood swings, depression, and anxiety associated with bipolar disorder. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use. Exercise regularly, eat nutritious foods, get plenty of sleep, and minimize stress.

Psychotherapy

Abisom Behavioral Health LLC offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and other forms of therapy that minimize bipolar disorder signs and symptoms. You can choose from in-person or virtual therapy (telepsychiatry) sessions. 

Medications

If necessary, your mental health specialist prescribes medications designed to help you better manage bipolar disorder symptoms.

Schedule an in-person or virtual bipolar evaluation at Abisom Behavioral Health LLC by phone or request one online today.