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Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder services offered in Irvine Spectrum, Irvine, CA

If you struggle with mood swings and other mental health concerns that accompany bipolar disorder, visit Even Better Mood Clinic in Irvine, California. George Tun, MD, offers personalized and effective care to help you improve your outlook, behavior, and quality of life. You can schedule a consultation today by phone or online.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes distinct shifts in your energy levels, mood, and daily functioning. While everyone has mood shifts and experiences strong emotions occasionally, individuals with bipolar disorder experience these to the extreme.

Fortunately, bipolar disorder is responsive to treatment. With the support of the Even Better Mood Clinic, you can pursue your goals with confidence.

What types of bipolar disorder are there?

A bipolar disorder diagnosis hinges on the types of symptoms you experience and their severity. Your mood swings may be depressive, associated with feelings of sadness or hopelessness, or manic, typified by more energy and irritability. Hypomanic shifts cause symptoms similar to a manic shift but are less extreme.

A manic (or depressive) episode lasting longer than a week or requiring hospitalization may result in a diagnosis of bipolar I. If your episodes range from depressive to hypomanic, you may receive a diagnosis of bipolar II.

What are the typical symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Depressive episodes are associated with symptoms like:

  • Fatigue
  • Extreme sadness
  • Problems concentrating
  • Unintended weight loss or gain
  • Irritability
  • Hopelessness
  • Sleeping too much
  • Loss of motivation

If you struggle with thoughts of suicide, call 911 or the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988) right away.

Manic episodes are associated with symptoms like:

  • Intense elation and happiness
  • Racing thoughts
  • Unrealistically high opinion of self
  • Sudden mood swings
  • Setting unattainable goals
  • Going without sleep
  • Fast-paced or excessive talking
  • Impulsivity or recklessness
  • Being drawn to pleasure, food, or sex

If a manic episode is severe, you may have hallucinations or delusions. It’s also possible to have simultaneous manic and depressive symptoms, making every day feel insurmountable.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

The first step is a thorough evaluation of your mental health. You’ll discuss your symptoms and goals, and the Even Better Mood Clinic team can determine if you have bipolar disorder, the type, and if other mental health conditions may be exacerbating your struggles.

They will create a personalized treatment plan that may utilize one or a combination of treatment modalities, including:

  • Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
  • Medication management
  • Exercise
  • Education regarding the tools and resources available to you
  • In-patient care

Consistent care is essential to managing bipolar disorder. Don’t let anything stand in your way — talk to the compassionate team at Even Better Mood Clinic today to schedule your appointment. 

You can book online or call the office, and telehealth options may be available.