Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression and periods of mania or hypomania, when mood, energy and activity are unusually high or irritable. It is often first diagnosed as depression, which can lead to treatment that does not fit.
With an accurate diagnosis and consistent care, many people with bipolar disorder lead stable, full lives.
Signs it may be time to get help
- Periods of unusually high energy, little need for sleep, or racing thoughts
- Impulsive decisions with spending, work or relationships during those periods
- Episodes of depression between elevated periods
- Antidepressants that seemed to make you feel worse or more agitated
- A family history of bipolar disorder
How I approach treatment
Careful diagnosis comes first. I take a detailed history of past mood episodes, often with input from someone who knows you well if you are comfortable with that.
Treatment usually centers on mood-stabilizing medication with regular monitoring, including lab work when a medication requires it, combined with therapy, sleep protection and a plan for early warning signs.
Visits are by secure video for patients located in California or New York at the time of the appointment. See what the first evaluation involves and how medication management works.
Questions people ask
Is bipolar disorder treated differently from depression?
Yes. Some treatments for depression can destabilize mood in bipolar disorder, which is why an accurate diagnosis matters.
Related reading
Related conditions
This page is general information, not medical advice for your situation.