In the past, Bipolar Disorder has been referred to as “manic-depression” or “manic-depressive disorder.” People with this disorder might often fluctuate between feeling anxious, edgy, and broken, and feeling like they are invincible and ready to conquer the world.

There are different types of Bipolar and other related disorders. While you should always rely on a trained professional for an appropriate diagnosis, here are some of the symptoms of the “Manic Episode” requirement
Bipolar Disorder:

• Elevated mood sometimes described as “feeling on top of the world”

• Excessively angry or irritable mood

• Feeling rested after little or no sleep

• Talking more or faster than usual

• Feeling like your thoughts and ideas are racing

• Increased activity (e.g., cleaning the entire house in the middle of the night or starting numerous projects at the same time that you have little chance of actually completing).

• Engaging in impulsive and dangerous behavior (e.g., spending sprees, sexual indiscretions)

Most people (though not all) who experience the above symptoms of Bipolar Disorder also have fluctuating periods of significant depression which you can learn more about here.

There is strong evidence to suggest that Bipolar Disorder runs in families. If you have a close relative with this diagnosis, you are much more likely to have the diagnosis yourself. The risk of suicide is also much higher for this group of people, in part because of the increased impulsivity that is often often present.

Most people that I work with who have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder benefit from quality care from a psychiatrist who can recommend and monitor appropriate medications. People often find it helpful to also engage in psychotherapy to help with some of the day-to-day emotional challenges associated with Bipolar Disorder.

When I do psychotherapy with people, I treat the person, not the diagnosis. And while having a diagnosis might help describe to others what you experience, it does not define you as a person. We can work together to help you get you back on track and live a fuller life.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or ask me a question about Bipolar treatment, please feel free to fill out the form on this page.

My office is in Farmington Hills, MI with convenient access to most Metro Detroit neighborhoods, including West Bloomfield, Farmington, Ferndale, and Novi. Virtual appointments throughout Michigan and Florida (and some other states) are also available.