Bipolar Disorder Westfield

Careful Management for Major Mood Swings

While certain people might joke about someone being “bipolar” if they have frequent mood swings, the truth is that bipolar disorder is nothing to take lightly. People with this condition may experience ongoing challenges that make it difficult for them to get the most out of life. The good news is that, while there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it can be treated, and our Westfield team is ready to help! Continue reading below to learn more, or contact us to request a consultation.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder was formerly known as manic-depressive disorder. This condition is characterized by extreme mood swings. The highs are referred to as mania or hypomania (hypomania is less extreme than mania), while the lows are simply called depression.

Bipolar disorder can afflict people of any age, background, or gender. However, it is most commonly diagnosed when a person is in their teens or early adulthood.

Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is not always easy to diagnose because many of its signs and symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. There are also different types of bipolar disorder, some of which are easier to recognize than others.

If you believe you have bipolar disorder, talk to a qualified psychiatrist in Westfield. You must be patient while our team observes you, learns about your symptoms and lifestyle, and strives to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder

Depending on your unique situation, we might recommend one or more of the following methods as a means to manage your bipolar disorder:

TMS

This non-invasive therapy uses a magnetic field to stimulate the brain. It is often used for depression. However, there is some evidence to indicate that it may also be helpful for regulating the emotions of individuals with bipolar disorder.

Spravato

Spravato is a nasal spray that contains esketamine. It is FDA-approved as a way to address treatment-resistant depression and is often used alongside oral anti-depressant medications. It works by increasing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory and learning. When it binds to certain receptors in the brain, it can result in improvements in mood.

If you struggle with major depressive episodes because of your bipolar disorder, Spravato might be able to help.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is a type of talk therapy that aims to help patients identify and change unwholesome thought patterns. It may help you to be more aware of your emotions and how you can manage them. It can also help if you are struggling with feelings of guilt due to your behavior when you are in a manic or depressive episode.

Medication Management

Medications may make a great impact on your state of mind. During medication management, we review what prescriptions you are already taking and analyze how they might be affecting you. We may prescribe new medications, such as a mood stabilizer, or recommend that you take certain supplements. We may also recommend that you stop taking other medications or adjust your dosage.