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Serving the Jacksonville, FL area
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.8% of American adults. It can cause extreme shifts in mood and behavior, making it challenging to maintain overall well-being and day-to-day functioning. At Insight Psychiatry & Counseling, we can accurately diagnose your bipolar disorder and treat your symptoms effectively by developing a treatment plan with you – not just for you.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes intense swings in your behavior and mood. These polarizing moods occur in episodes, and typically last a week or more. Not all mood episodes are as extreme as they are portrayed in TV shows and movies. Sometimes, individuals can have a “watered down” version of bipolar disorder, and never require any hospitalization.
People is bipolar disorder can also have what is considered “predominant polarity”. This is where an individual stays in one mood episode for the majority of time, with as little as one mood episode in the opposite mood. For instance, someone with predominantly depressive episodes who experienced one hypomanic episode still is considered to have bipolar disorder and will most likely respond differently to typical depression medications. This is why it is imperative to collaborate with your provider to review a thorough history of mood episodes.
Signs of a manic episode include:
Depressive episode symptoms include:
If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call 911 or the 988 lifeline immediately for free and confidential support.
Your provider at Insight Psychiatry & Counseling conducts a diagnostic assessment before diagnosing your type of bipolar disorder. They then develop an achievable treatment plan.
Bipolar disorder can operate in cycles throughout your lifetime, so staying in treatment is crucial. Your provider may recommend treatments, including:
Your provider can offer guidance on locating supportive resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which provides support groups and tools for patients and their families.