Bipolar Disorder

As a bipolar psychiatrist in Raleigh, NC, I provide individualized psychiatric evaluation and treatment for adults with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can cause significant changes in mood, energy, sleep, and activity levels and may affect relationships, work, and everyday functioning. People with bipolar disorder may experience episodes of mania or hypomania, which can include unusually elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, rapid or excessive speech, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and poor judgment. At other times, they may experience **depressive episodes** involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, low energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, feelings of hopelessness, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. The frequency, severity, and pattern of mood episodes can vary considerably from one person to another. Symptoms may occur without an obvious trigger or may be influenced by factors such as stress, disrupted sleep, substance use, medications, or major life changes. Because bipolar disorder can sometimes be confused with depression, ADHD, anxiety, substance-related conditions, or other psychiatric disorders, a careful psychiatric evaluation is important for establishing an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

Bipolar disorder can involve episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. During manic or hypomanic episodes, a person may experience unusually elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, increased activity, or poor judgment.

Depressive episodes may include persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, low energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.

Symptoms can vary considerably from one person to another. A careful psychiatric evaluation is important to distinguish bipolar disorder from depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance-related conditions, and other disorders that may cause similar symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Treatment for bipolar disorder is individualized based on the type and severity of symptoms, previous treatment response, medical history, and each patient’s specific needs. Treatment commonly includes medication management and psychotherapy, with the goal of stabilizing mood, reducing the frequency and severity of mood episodes, and improving overall functioning.

Medications may include mood stabilizers, certain atypical antipsychotic medications, and other medications when clinically appropriate. Because some antidepressants can potentially trigger mania or mood instability in people with bipolar disorder, medication selection and ongoing monitoring are especially important.

Regular follow-up allows for monitoring of mood symptoms, sleep, medication effectiveness, and potential side effects. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, recognizing early warning signs of mood changes, reducing substance use, and managing stress can also play an important role in long-term stability.

Medication Management for Bipolar Disorder

Medication management is an important part of treatment for many people with bipolar disorder. The choice of medication depends on the individual’s symptoms, type of bipolar disorder, previous treatment response, other medical conditions, and potential side effects.

Follow-up appointments are used to monitor response to treatment, identify side effects, review sleep and mood patterns, and make medication adjustments when appropriate. The goal is to achieve long-term mood stability while using the most effective and appropriate medication regimen for each patient.

In-Person and Telehealth Care

Bipolar psychiatrist Raleigh NC services are available in person as well as through secure telehealth appointments when appropriate. Treatment is individualized, and new patients are welcome. Appointments are often available within 48 hours.

Request an Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder or have questions about your current treatment, you can request an appointment for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and individualized treatment recommendations. New patients are welcome.

Request an Appointment

Learn more about bipolar disorder from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)