Bipolar Disorder

If you feel extremely happy one minute and depressed the next, you might have bipolar disorder. At Axial Psychiatric Services in Rockwall, Texas, Ankit Parmar, MD, and the team determine if you have bipolar disorder and offer treatments to avoid mood swings and thrive at work and in relationships. Call the office to get evaluated for bipolar disorder or schedule an appointment online today.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes mood swings; feelings of euphoria are cycled with periods of major depression. You might alternate between feeling extremely happy and very sad, which often negatively affects your quality of life. Treatment with the help of the Axial Psychiatric Services specialists can stabilize your mood.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

The most common symptoms of bipolar disorder are:

• Depression paired with euphoria
• Mood swings
• Poor judgment
• Impulsive decision-making
• Hopelessness or worthlessness
• Thoughts of suicide
• Problems sleeping
• Feeling energized cycled with fatigue
• Loss of interest in activities
• Social withdrawal
• Substance misuse

Bipolar disorder can cause problems in relationships or at work, making it more difficult to hold down a stable job.

Who gets bipolar disorder?

While anyone can develop bipolar disorder, the most common risk factors are:

• Family history of bipolar disorder
• Having additional mental health conditions
• Traumatic life events
• Drug or alcohol misuse

You might also have major depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or other mental health conditions that complicate bipolar disorder. Visit Axial Psychiatric Services at the first sign of bothersome symptoms.

How does my provider diagnose bipolar disorder?

Your Axial Psychiatric Services specialist asks you a series of questions during a psychiatric evaluation to determine if you have bipolar disorder or another mental health condition. They complete a physical exam and sometimes tests that pinpoint the cause of bipolar disorder. 

Genetic testing helps your specialist find medications that are likely most effective for your genetic makeup.

What are the best treatments for bipolar disorder?

The most common treatments for bipolar disorder are medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. You might participate in family counseling, group or individual counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), or other types of therapy.

Your Axial Psychiatric Services provider may recommend stress-reducing strategies, such as getting regular exercise, spending time outdoors, or meditating. Eat nutritious foods, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs. 

Your specialist follows up with you to make sure your treatment works to stabilize your mood and improve your quality of life.

To find out if you have bipolar disorder or get treated for it, call the Axial Psychiatric Services office or use the online booking feature today.