Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, but you don’t have to ride it alone. The One Alkaline Life team in Waldorf, Maryland, offers compassionate care and treatment, helping you navigate the highs and lows more easily. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking better balance, support is available. Book an appointment today by phone or online to learn how therapy, medication, and lifestyle tools can help you reclaim stability and lead a more peaceful, fulfilling life. Telehealth visits are also available.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. These mood changes range from periods of extreme highs, called mania or hypomania, to intense lows, known as depression. 

Everyone experiences ups and downs, but the mood swings in bipolar disorder are more severe, last longer, and can interfere with relationships, work, and overall well-being.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder symptoms vary depending on the type and the phase of the mood cycle.

During manic or hypomanic episodes, symptoms may include:

• Feeling extremely energized, euphoric, or unusually irritable
• Talking very fast or jumping between topics
• Racing thoughts or inflated self-esteem
• Needing little sleep but not feeling tired
• Impulsive behavior, such as spending sprees or risky decisions

During depressive episodes, symptoms may include:

• Feeling hopeless, sad, or empty
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Fatigue or low energy
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Some people may also experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of mania and depression happen at the same time.

What causes bipolar disorder?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t fully understood, but it likely involves a combination of factors. For example, genetics can put you at a higher risk if you have a family history of bipolar disorder. 

Brain structure and function may also contribute, as differences in certain brain areas have been observed in people with the condition. 

Environmental triggers like high stress, trauma, or major life changes can also influence when symptoms first appear or worsen.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but the One Alkaline Life mental health specialists can provide proper treatment, helping you lead a stable, fulfilling life. 

Treatment often includes a mix of:

• Medication, such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or antidepressants
• Therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation
• Lifestyle support, like regular routines, stress management, and sleep hygiene
• Ongoing monitoring to catch mood shifts early and adjust treatment as needed

In addition, support from loved ones and peer groups can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and maintaining emotional balance.

If you or a loved one suffers from bipolar disorder, contact One Alkaline Life today to book an appointment. Schedule an in-person appointment or a telehealth visit by phone or online now.