At Flume Psychiatry, Dr. David Flume and Dr. Daniel Ha are here to assist if you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder in Austin, TX. Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood but there is effective treatment available, and it is possible to live a full and happy life even if you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder or BPD is a mood disorder characterized by extreme highs and lows. You may have heard the term manic depression, as someone with bipolar rotates from manic to depressive episodes. The three main types of bipolar disorder are:
- Bipolar I is diagnosed when someone experiences a manic episode that is followed by hypomania or major depression (psychosis may also occur)
- Bipolar II is diagnosed when someone has experienced at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, which is much shorter and less intense than a manic episode
- Cyclothymic disorder consists of faster fluctuations between manic and depressive episodes, but depression symptoms are usually less severe than in other types
What Are the Signs?
Signs of bipolar include behavior that changes from depressive episodes to manic episodes. Depressive episodes are characterized by fatigue, insomnia or heavy amounts of sleep, loss of interest in activities, trouble concentrating, and feeling sad or hopeless. Manic episodes can often be identified by periods of not sleeping as much, talking rapidly and excessively, racing thoughts, overspending, or other risky behavior. Manic episodes can also involve paranoia and delusional thinking. The typical age of diagnosis for bipolar disorder is 25, but it can also be diagnosed in children and in older adults.
How Is It Managed?
If you or a loved one have bipolar disorder in Austin, TX, it's important to start treatment as soon as possible. Your first meeting with us will include a thorough psychiatric evaluation and review of medical history, so come to the appointment with as much information as you can.
Treatment recommendations will almost always include lifestyle changes. Managing sleep schedules and stress and avoiding alcohol can help manage symptoms. Psychotherapy and medication work together to help you manage symptoms and learn coping mechanisms.
Dr. David Flume and Dr. Daniel Ha Flume Psychiatry provide psychiatric services if you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder in Austin, TX. Contact us for an appointment at (512) 329-5575.