Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes episodes of mania. Manic episodes are distinct periods in which one’s mood is very abnormal and persistently extremely elevated, to the point of being impairing. It is accompanied by feelings of grandiosity, racing thoughts, pressured speech, excessive energy, and the lack of need for sleep. The episodes last for at least one week.

People with bipolar disorder may also experience depressive episodes at other times. Such dramatic mood swings can cause disruption in one’s life on many levels. Dr. Gulino offers an array of treatments that improve the consistency of your mood, thoughts, and behavior patterns.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

The symptoms you experience because of bipolar disorder depend on if you’re feeling depressed or manic. Examples of possible symptoms include:

• Extreme or ongoing sadness
• Mood swings
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Problems focusing
• Unusual talkativeness
• Agitation
• Being upbeat, wired, or jumpy
• Racing thoughts
• Getting distracted easily 
• Poor decision making
• Feeling worthless, empty, sad, or hopeless
• Thoughts of harming yourself
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Appetite changes
• Indecisiveness

Bipolar disorder may negatively affect relationships with other people, your work, education, or your overall quality of living. It can cause financial struggles, encourage substance abuse, or damage relationships.

What are the risk factors for bipolar disorder?

While the cause of bipolar disorder isn’t entirely clear, common risk factors may include:

• Family history of bipolar disorder
• Severe or ongoing stress
• Traumatic life events such as childhood abuse
• Brain chemistry changes
• Father’s age at time of conception

At the first sign of a problem, especially if you have risk factors of bipolar disorder, see Dr. Gulino for an evaluation. 

How does my doctor diagnose bipolar disorder?

To find out if you have bipolar disorder or get treated for it, Dr. Gulino reviews your medical history, lifestyle habits, and symptoms. He completes a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. He asks questions about your history including thought patterns, mood, behaviors, and emotions before tailoring a mental health treatment just for you. A physical exam may be necessary, as well as labs.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

To reduce troublesome symptoms of bipolar disorder, Dr. Gulino may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Maintain a regular sleep schedule, reduce stress, get regular exercise, eat nutritious foods, and avoid smoking, using drugs, or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. 

Medication management

Taking medications is a highly effective strategy for treating bipolar disorder and stabilizing your mood.

Therapy

Psychotherapy (talk therapy) with Dr. Gulino can also be helpful in reducing bipolar disorder symptoms. He offers cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and family-focused therapy, as well as other therapies that improve thought and behavior patterns.

To find out if you have bipolar disorder or get treated for it, call the Beverly Hills Psychiatry office or use the online booking feature today.