Bipolar Disorder

Feeling overjoyed one minute and extremely sad the next could indicate bipolar disorder. At New Horizon Mental Health and Wellness LLC in Sioux City, Iowa, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Dorcas Kamau, PMHNP-DNP, diagnoses and treats bipolar disorder to reduce depression and stabilize your mood. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation at New Horizon Mental Health and Wellness LLC by phone or request one online today.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by extreme emotional highs and lows (mood swings). While many people experience mood fluctuations from time to time, bipolar disorder may cause dramatic symptoms that negatively interfere with daily activities. Treatment can enhance your mood, decision-making skills, relationships, and overall quality of life. 

Which symptoms are linked to bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder can cause:

• Depression cycled with mania (full of energy)
• Extreme mood swings
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Impulsive decision-making
• Fatigue cycled with excessive energy
• Problems thinking clearly
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Distractibility 
• Racing thoughts

You may also struggle in relationships, at work, or in school because of bipolar disorder. 

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

The main types of bipolar disorder include:

Bipolar disorder I

If you have bipolar disorder I, you’ve had at least one manic episode coupled with hypomanic or major depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder II

Bipolar disorder II is described as having at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode (but not manic episodes).

Cyclothymic disorder

People with cyclothymic disorder have at least two years (at least one year in kids and teenagers) of depressive symptoms paired with hypomania symptoms. 

What are the risk factors for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar risk factors include a family history of bipolar disorder, extreme stress, traumatic events, and alcohol or drug misuse. However, the exact cause of your condition may not be clear. Adopting healthy habits and minimizing stress could reduce the risk of bipolar disorder.

How does my specialist diagnose bipolar disorder?

Dorcas can diagnose bipolar disorder after completing an in-person or virtual psychiatric evaluation. She discusses your emotions, lifestyle, mood, behaviors, and more to determine if you have bipolar disorder or another mental health concern. 

How is bipolar disorder treated?

New Horizon Mental Health and Wellness LLC provides highly effective bipolar disorder treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), other forms of psychotherapy, and medication management. Dorcas follows up with you in person or virtually each week (or as needed) for therapy sessions.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth bipolar disorder evaluation at New Horizon Mental Health and Wellness LLC by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.