Bipolar Disorder (or Manic Depressive Disorder, as it was once called), can be very disruptive to daily living. The emergence of the initial symptoms can be alarming and confusing to both patient, close friends, and family. Racing thoughts, inability to sleep, boundless energy, pressured speech, mood swings, irritability, depression, and more, are collectively symptomatic of a mood disorder. (I hesitated in listing some symptoms here because many people mistakenly diagnose themselves or their partner or child as being Bipolar when they are not). There are two main types of Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II, plus a third category for those who do not fit neatly into either form, Unspecified Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar I not only requires finding the best medication and dose for the individual, but also patience with the process. Bipolar II, depending upon severity, may allow for a gradual weaning off of medication. Both forms of Bipolar disorder benefit from supportive psychotherapy for oneself and family. After becoming stabilized on medication, it is important to have a good working relationship with a psychotherapist and a psychiatrist who will teach you how to monitor yourself for early detection of a possible re-emergence of symptoms as well as provide you with coping strategies. Medication will need to be adjusted periodically by your psychiatrist. If you are diagnosed with or suspect you have Bipolar Disorder, psychotherapy is an integral part of successful treatment. Being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder is no longer the end of the world. It is a serious condition that requires professional help, but provided you take your medication as prescribed, attend therapy, and monitor yourself for signs and symptoms of a re-occurence, you can fully function in your normal daily activities and no one at work, school, or elsewhere in your life will be aware of your diagnosis. It is fully manageable.

Here are some free online screening tools:

http://www.dbsalliance.org/pdfs/MDQ.pdf

What is Bipolar Disorder?

http://www.mentalhealthmn.org/be-informed/education-programs/online-screening-for-mood-and-anxiety-disorders

If you would like to discuss how I would work with you or a loved one who has been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (or may have it), please give me a call or email me. I will be happy to talk with you.