Bipolar Disorder Specialist
PeachState Psychiatric Services
Psychiatrist located in Atlanta, GA
The first episode of bipolar disorder often occurs around the age of 25, but it can begin in childhood or your teen years. Once you develop symptoms of bipolar disorder, you’ll need medication and therapy to manage your mood episodes. You can count on Dr. Dwight A. Owens at Peachstate Psychiatric Services to help treat your symptoms and provide the therapeutic support you need. Call the office in Atlanta or book an appointment online.
Bipolar Disorder Q & A
What are the different types of bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorders cause recurring changes in your mood, energy level, thinking, and behavior. These changes generally present themselves in cycles of mania and depression. They may be so intense that they have a significant impact on your life and behavior, but it depends on the type of bipolar disorder.
The three primary types of bipolar disorder are:
Bipolar I disorder
Patients with bipolar I disorder have one or more pronounced manic episode. They may experience a mixed episode of both manic and depressive symptoms, and also experience major depressive episodes.
Bipolar II disorder
Bipolar II disorder causes a pattern of one or more severe major depressive episodes with at least one hypomanic episode. You may also experience a mixed episode.
Cyclothymic disorder
This disorder is defined by numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms, but your symptoms aren’t severe enough to meet the criteria of a hypomanic or depressive episode.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
You may not experience all of these symptoms, but the following lists give an overview of manic and depressive symptoms. The symptoms of hypomania are the same as mania but less severe. Hypomania doesn’t usually cause problems because you can still fulfill your daily responsibilities.
Mania symptoms:
- Feeling very up or elevated sense of self-esteem
- Having lots of energy or feeling wired
- Increase in activity level
- Difficulty sleeping
- Talking very quickly
- Feelings of agitation or irritability
- Racing thoughts
- Risky behaviors
Depression symptoms:
- Feelings of intense sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness
- Very little energy
- Decreased activity levels
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Pervasive thoughts of worry
- Difficulty concentrating
- Eating too much or too little
- Thoughts about death or suicide
How is bipolar disorder treated?
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Dr. Owens may prescribe a mood stabilizer, atypical antipsychotic, antidepressant, or a combination of these medications to stabilize your moods.
A variety of therapies can alleviate bipolar disorder symptoms, so your treatment plan includes the therapy that fits you and your needs. Some of your therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.
If you notice drastic changes to your mood, call Peachstate Psychiatric Services or book an appointment online.
