Bipolar Disorder Specialist

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by extreme depression alternated with bouts of manic behavior. 

During depressive episodes, a person with bipolar disorder feels empty, has trouble sleeping, and can’t find motivation for the simplest daily tasks. The depressive bouts can be so severe that some patients contemplate suicide. 

Manic episodes are the complete opposite. The person is full of energy, euphoric, and especially agitated. A bipolar patient may make rash judgments during these periods and have trouble concentrating. 

Bipolar negatively affects a person’s personality and relationships with friends, family, and coworkers. Bipolar disorder can also cause a person to put themselves in harmful situations.

Who needs medical support for bipolar disorder?

Treatment for bipolar disorder can be tricky. During periods of mania, a bipolar patient feels especially productive and euphoric. They’re unlikely to seek medical attention because they feel genuinely good. 

During periods of depression, a patient may feel such despair that seeking care seems impossible. This can also be difficult because the bipolar patient may be dealing with legal, financial, or relationship troubles created during any mania. 

Bipolar disorders don’t go away on their own. Shannon can help those with bipolar learn how to manage emotional swings to live a more stable life.

What causes bipolar disorder?

Bipolar is caused by changes in your brain that are not within your control. Often, bipolar disorder runs in families.

Patients who come to the office with symptoms of bipolar disorder undergo a thorough medical and mental health review. Shannon explores a patient’s feelings, behaviors, and concerns to diagnose bipolar disorder or another mental health condition.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Shannon customizes treatment for each patient. Most treatments combine medication management and counseling to help manage troubling thoughts. If bipolar disorder exists in conjunction with substance dependence and abuse, Shannon can help with addiction treatment and support for bipolar disorder.

If you or someone you love has symptoms that suggest bipolar disorder, contact Glacier Mental and Family Health Solutions. Call the friendly staff today or use the online tool to schedule.