Eagle View Psychiatry

Bipolar Disorder – Our Approach and Health Insurance

This article summarizes our approach to diagnosis and treatment of Bipolar Disorder (ADHD). While we approach each case individually, this is a generally summary of how we address diagnosis and treatment for this condition. Both diagnosis and treatment is usually covered by most health insurance carriers. Please click check insurance and review the insurance carriers we accept. If your carrier is not listing, please submit the details of your coverage. We’ll let you know if we can accept it.

Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Without treatment, bipolar disorder can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. However, with proper care, many individuals successfully manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Symptoms can vary from person to person but may include:

• Problems with relationships, work, or school performance
• Extreme sadness, hopelessness or loss of interest in activities
• Increased energy, decreased need for sleep, or racing thoughts
• Irritability or impulsive behavior
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Types of Bipolar Disorder

It is medically classified into three primary types — Bipolar I, Bipolar II and Cylothymic — which vary by the severity and duration of their distinct highs and lows.

Bipolar I Disorder: This classic form requires at least one full manic episode lasting seven days or requiring hospitalization. People experience extreme highs (mania) characterized by intense energy, reckless behavior, or psychosis, typically alternating with major depressive episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder: This type involves a pattern of recurring depressive episodes and milder elevated moods known as hypomania. Individuals never experience a full, severe manic episode, but they frequently spend long periods in deep, low-grade depressive states.

Cyclothymic Disorder: Often called cyclothymia, this is a chronically unstable mood state involving recurrent, mild hypomanic symptoms and mild depressive symptoms. These fluctuating mood swings persist for at least two years but are not severe or long enough to qualify as full clinical episodes

Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder

Medication Management:  Mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotic medications, and other psychiatric medications can help regulate mood swings and reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. Careful medication monitoring ensures treatment remains safe and effective.

Psychotherapy: Therapy can help patients better understand their condition, develop coping strategies, improve relationships, and recognize early warning signs of mood changes.

Lifestyle and Wellness Support: Healthy sleep habits, stress management, regular exercise, and maintaining a consistent routine are important components of managing bipolar disorder.

Ongoing Psychiatric Care: Bipolar disorder is typically a lifelong condition that benefits from ongoing treatment and regular follow-up appointments. Consistent psychiatric care can help prevent relapses and improve long-term outcomes.

When to Seek Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing dramatic mood changes, prolonged depression, periods of unusually high energy, or difficulty functioning in daily life, seeking professional help is an important first step.

Our psychiatry practice is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals living with bipolar disorder. With the right treatment plan and support, recovery and stability are possible.