Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Louisville, KY
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). At Smither Psychiatry, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to help you achieve mood stability and improve your quality of life.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 2.8% of U.S. adults have bipolar disorder. It typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, though it can appear at any age.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead full, productive lives. The key is finding the right combination of medications and therapy that works for you.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I Disorder
Defined by manic episodes lasting at least 7 days, or manic symptoms severe enough to require immediate hospital care. Depressive episodes typically occur as well, usually lasting at least 2 weeks. Mixed episodes (having depressive and manic symptoms at the same time) are also possible.
Bipolar II Disorder
Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (less severe than full manic episodes). People with Bipolar II often seek help during depressive episodes and may not recognize hypomanic periods as problematic.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Involves periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents). The symptoms don't meet the diagnostic requirements for a hypomanic or depressive episode.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Manic Episode Symptoms
- Abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood
- Increased energy, activity, or agitation
- Decreased need for sleep (feeling rested after only a few hours)
- Racing thoughts or rapid speech
- Distractibility and difficulty concentrating
- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
- Poor decision-making (excessive spending, risky behavior)
- In severe cases, psychotic symptoms like delusions or hallucinations
Hypomanic Episode Symptoms
Similar to manic symptoms but less severe. Hypomania doesn't cause the significant impairment in functioning that mania does, and there are no psychotic features. However, it's noticeable to others and represents a clear change from normal behavior.
Depressive Episode Symptoms
- Persistent sad, empty, or hopeless mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Important: If you're experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please reach out immediately. Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
Our Approach to Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Treatment for bipolar disorder requires careful medication management and ongoing monitoring. Morgan Smither, PMHNP, works closely with each patient to find the right treatment approach:
Medication Management
Mood stabilizers are the cornerstone of bipolar treatment:
- Mood Stabilizers - The cornerstone of bipolar treatment, particularly effective for preventing manic episodes
- Anticonvulsants - Several medications in this class help stabilize mood effectively
- Atypical Antipsychotics - Often used for acute mood episodes and maintenance treatment
- Antidepressants - Used carefully in combination with mood stabilizers to treat depressive episodes
Brief Supportive Psychotherapy
Alongside medication, we provide support to help you:
- Recognize early warning signs of mood episodes
- Develop strategies to prevent full-blown episodes
- Maintain regular sleep schedules and daily routines
- Manage stress and identify triggers
- Build a strong support network
- Improve medication adherence
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Your initial evaluation will include:
- A comprehensive psychiatric assessment and mood history
- Discussion of manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes
- Review of family history (bipolar disorder has a genetic component)
- Assessment of current symptoms and functioning
- Development of a personalized treatment and monitoring plan
Related Conditions
Bipolar disorder often co-occurs with other conditions we treat: