Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a challenging mental condition that causes unpredictable mood swings. If you or a loved one shows signs of bipolar disorder, reach out to Psychiatric and Wellness Connect LLC, serving patients in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Deborah Obinwa, NP, provides holistic care for bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Call today or use the online booking tool to schedule a telehealth visit.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder, previously called manic-depression, causes excessive and uncontrollable mood changes, ranging from heightened happiness (mania) to episodes of severe depression. This mental health condition typically appears during young adulthood but can also affect children and teenagers.

Those with bipolar disorder can be misdiagnosed as having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or personality disorders. An accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment are crucial for better mental health and well-being.

As a skilled psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Deborah conducts thorough mental health assessments to pinpoint the root causes of see-sawing emotions.

What are the most common traits of bipolar disorder?

Mania and depression are hallmark signs of bipolar disorder. The symptoms they cause include:

Mania 

Mania dramatically elevates your mood. When you experience a manic episode, you feel overjoyed and energetic. You can also quickly become irritable and angry. Many people struggle with decision-making during manic episodes because they feel powerful and overconfident. Some people experience episodes of hypomania (milder than mania).

Depression

Depression makes you feel sad, low, and/or hopeless. It can drain your energy, leaving you empty, restless, and unmotivated.

How is schizoaffective disorder different from bipolar disorder?

Schizoaffective disorder blends elements of schizophrenia and mood disorders. Bipolar disorder mainly causes manic and depressive mood swings. Schizoaffective disorder brings in persistent psychotic symptoms, like hallucinations or delusions, alongside mood disturbances.

In schizoaffective disorder, these psychotic symptoms can happen independently of mood episodes.

What can I expect from a bipolar disorder consultation?

During your initial consultation with Deborah, expect a thorough mental health assessment. Deborah asks about your symptoms, particularly your mood and any changes you’ve recently experienced. She also discusses your lifestyle, diet, medications, and other relevant things influencing your mental health.

Scheduling a consultation is essential to effectively diagnose and treat bipolar disorder. Finding the right time to seek help can be tricky. Many people with bipolar disorder feel like they’re invincible and don’t need help during a manic episode. Depressive episodes often make you feel too low and unmotivated to seek care.

A consultation with an experienced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner like Deborah ensures that you quickly receive the care you need.

How do you treat bipolar disorder?

Deborah personalizes bipolar disorder treatment to your unique symptoms, needs, and preferences. Bipolar disorder usually requires a combination of medication management and psychotherapy to help you manage troubling thoughts and mood swings. Deborah can also recommend lifestyle changes to boost your treatment’s effectiveness.

Call Psychiatric and Wellness Connect LLC today or use the online booking tool to schedule a telehealth appointment.