Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme changes in mood, from mania (emotional highs) to depression (lows). At Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital, we use a combination of medications and psychotherapy to help you return to a productive and fulfilling life.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Symptoms of bipolar disorder may appear to be part of another illness such as substance abuse, poor school performance or trouble in the workplace, before being properly diagnosed.

Symptoms of mania include:

• Excessive energy, activity, restlessness
• Denial that anything is wrong
• Extreme "high" or euphoric feelings
• Feeling trapped, irritated or confused
• Decreased need for sleep
• Unrealistic beliefs in one's ability and powers
• Uncharacteristically poor judgment
• Lavish spending sprees
• Abuse of drugs
• Provocative, intrusive or reckless behaviors

Normal mood and behavior may follow a manic phase, however, the depressive phase eventually appears.

Symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent sad, anxious or empty mood
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Irritability or restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Persistent physical symptoms that don't respond to treatment
• Thoughts of death or suicide, including suicide attempts
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless

For some, mania or depression can last weeks or months (and rarely, years).

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Laureate provides critical treatment for recovery. We use a combination of medication, professional counseling and support from family, friends and peers to help you stabilize your emotions and behavior. It's also recommended that friends and family join a support group to better understand the illness and continue to offer encouragement to you.

Learn More About Bipolar Disorder Services at Laureate