What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue that triggers significant fluctuations in mood and energy. Those with bipolar disorder face heightened emotional states, impacting their daily functioning and self-care. Once referred to as manic depression, this condition can impact individuals of any age but typically emerges in young adulthood. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we stand ready to support anyone grappling with the repercussions of manic or depressive episodes. Our dedication lies in aiding our patients to achieve equilibrium through a variety of bipolar disorder treatment options tailored to their needs. Contact our San Antonio, TX office to get the support you deserve.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Our experienced team recognizes that navigating the path to the right bipolar disorder treatment is a personal journey. This condition is often managed with medication, including mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Psychotherapy has also proven beneficial for many diagnosed with bipolar disorder. However, while some may respond well to these methods or their combination, others may experience side effects that are hard to manage. This is why we provide alternative options like ketamine IV therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. By offering a broad spectrum of treatments for bipolar disorder, we aim to assist every patient in finding the therapy or therapies that enable them to enjoy a balanced and fulfilling life.
What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is characterized by distinct mood episodes, which include manic and depressive phases. Common symptoms during manic episodes include:
- Increased energy or restlessness
- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
- A reduced need for sleep
- Impulsive or risky behavior
On the other hand, during depressive episodes, symptoms may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
The causes of bipolar disorder are multifaceted and can involve a combination of:
- Genetic factors, such as abnormalities in brain structure or function
- Environmental triggers, such as high stress, traumatic experiences, or substance abuse
Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking treatment is essential to managing the condition effectively.
Bipolar Disorder Reviews
Dr. Lundmark is the absolute best! I've had a lot of improvement since seeing him. The staff is always so welcoming and helpful. I did TMS here and it was a great experience. I definitely recommend!!
From the moment I entered the office to the moment leaving the office I felt so cared for! The psychiatrist Erik is awesome & very knowledgeable about my mental health! I’m so glad he was able to help me.
I’m so glad to have found Dr. Lundmark! Actually, all the Serenity staff members have always been kind and helpful. Dr. Lundmark is very easy to talk to, and actually respects my input regarding my treatment. That was not the case with multiple doctors I’d seen in the past. I absolutely recommend Dr. Lundmark and Serenity for anyone searching for a mental health practitioner.
Mental health is never a fun subject to have to come to terms with or understand but with Serenity, Victoria my TMS tech and Dr. Norman I have come to know that life is better when we allow ourselves to heal, and use the resources available to get help. This year I reached my lowest low but with the support of serenity and my TMS treatments with Victoria, I was able to learn healthy coping mechanisms, grounding techniques, how to be nicer to myself and helped every day tasks not feel so heavy. I cannot begin to express the gratitude, appreciation and admiration I have for Victoria and how she pours her heart into everyone she encounters, I truly believe the companionship she offered brought me back everyday, we laughed, cried, complained and reflected on my life a lot together. Even while Victoria was on a much deserved vacation Ash was an absolute ray of sunshine to encounter. I never doubted I was in good hands at Serenity, everyone is so personable, helpful and caring for their patients wellbeing. I do and will continue to recommend Serenity, TMS, Dr. Norman and Victoria to anyone I know who could benefit from their services.
My first meeting with Dr. Lundmark was great, he was thorough and eager to get me started on a treatment plan for my ADHD. The staff is all nice and the whole process is pretty efficient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a genetic basis for bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is influenced by genetics, making it more prevalent in families with a history of the condition. Though genetic factors are significant, they must interact with environmental influences for the disorder to manifest, meaning a genetic predisposition alone isn't a definite cause.
What initial symptoms could indicate bipolar disorder?
The onset of bipolar disorder is typically marked by extreme and noticeable shifts in mood and behavior, including:
- Intense fluctuations from emotional highs to lows
- Disrupted or inconsistent sleep patterns
- A rise in impulsiveness or irritability
- Noticeable fluctuations in energy levels
- Deviations from normal behavior
How does bipolar disorder differ from depression?
Though bipolar disorder can encompass depressive episodes, it is different than depression. Depression is characterized by a continuous state of sadness, despair, and disinterest in activities. Bipolar disorder, on the other hand, not only cycles through these depressive states but also includes periods of mania or hypomania, featuring high energy levels, elevated moods, and impulsive actions, which are not characteristics of depression.
Is bipolar disorder the same as mood swings?
Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense and prolonged mood episodes that differ from the typical mood changes experienced by most people. Medical intervention is often necessary to manage these episodes.
Are there different types of bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder comes in several types, including Bipolar I, which features full-blown manic episodes, and Bipolar II, characterized by hypomanic episodes and intense depressive episodes. Another form, known as cyclothymic disorder, involves more mild mood swings.
Live A Balanced Life
Bipolar disorder can profoundly impact various facets of a person's life, influencing their behaviors, emotional states, and interactions with family and friends. At Serenity Mental Health Centers in San Antonio, TX, patients have the opportunity to collaborate with our expert team to identify a treatment plan tailored to their needs. Our commitment is to offer guidance and support, empowering our patients to reclaim control over their lives.