Take Charge of Your Mental Wellbeing.
Manic Depressive Disorder
All too commonly, moodiness or irritability gets misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder. As mental health experts with a deep understanding of illness, we take a cautious and thorough approach before making the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. This is especially important given that this condition requires a very different treatment pathway compared to related conditions, like depression and anxiety.
Bipolar, along with depression, is a type of mood disorder. It is defined by the presence of manic episodes. Mania has a range of presentations and is marked by expansive moods, unusually high levels of energy, risky behavior and decreased need for sleep. At extreme levels, a person’s thoughts lose coherent organization and their sense of reality becomes impaired. Manic episodes are commonly, but not always, followed by depression.
State of the art treatment of bipolar disorder emphasizes both medical and non-medical approaches. The prevention of mania is a primary concern. However, we believe in moderating treatment such that our patients can feel themselves without being emotionally blunted or restricted. After all, bipolar can also come with unique strengths and gifts.
Bipolar depression typically requires therapies that significantly differ from standard “unipolar” depression treatments, and our skilled clinicians are trained in crafting treatment plans. We also emphasize the need for routine, structure, consistent sleep-wake cycles, as well as job and relationship stability. A multifaceted approach is needed to achieve wellness and to allow our patients to thrive.
- Carrie Fisher
