Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis & Treatment in Connecticut

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual and disruptive shifts in activity, mood and energy levels that can make it difficult to go about daily life.

• Bipolar I disorder causes manic symptoms that are so severe they require hospitalization or manic episodes that last 1 week or longer. You may also experience periodic depression usually lasting at least 2 weeks or a mix of both.

• Bipolar II  disorder causes patterns of depressive and hypomanic episodes. Hypomania is less severe than the mania of bipolar I.

• Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, is characterized by numerous episodes of depressive symptoms as well as periods of hypomania lasting at least 2 years.

• Unspecified bipolar disorder refers to bipolar symptoms that do not meet the specific criteria of the above categories.

What are the symptoms?

While they vary in severity and specifics – manic episodes may cause you to feel extremely high or elated, highly energized , jumpy and to become more physically active than usual. You may think you can accomplish many things at once or partake in risky behaviors such as reckless sex or money-spending. You may talk very fast while jumping from topic to topic and feel as though your thoughts are racing. Depressive episodes may cause you to feel empty, hopeless or sad. You may find little pleasure in usually enjoyable activities, easily forget things, eat too little or too much, struggle to concentrate and think about death or suicide.

How’s it treated?

Once properly diagnosed with bipolar disorder, doctors at Conteporary Care will recommend a treatment plan. Plans may include a combination of psychotherapy and medication to help gain control of your symptoms and lead a more productive life.