Mood and Bipolar Disorders
Combat Distressing Mental Health Symptoms with Therapy and Medication in the Philadelphia Area
Mood is a temporary state of mind, often described as how someone “feels” for a specific period. A person’s mood in a particular moment may fall anywhere on a spectrum that ranges from low (depression) to high (euphoria), and it will fluctuate over time. Changing moods represent a common human experience, and all related feelings and emotions should be considered valid. However, the intensity of the mood and the length of time a particular mood lasts are also factors to consider. Moods that persist or that prompt overwhelmingly intense feelings or reactions may be signs of mood or bipolar disorders. Philadelphia-area patients concerned about mood and bipolar disorders—including what is sometimes referred to as “manic depressive bipolar disorder” or “manic depression”—should know that they are very common, but can dramatically and negatively impact the quality of one’s professional and private life.
What Are Some Specific Mood Disorders?
It is common for emotions to change in reaction to a stressor, but extreme or unprovoked emotional changes can be unsettling or cause impairment in function.
Emotional disturbances that sway a person toward excessively elevated or low moods are commonly referred to as mood disorders. These encompass two main categories: depressive disorders and bipolar disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), these disorders have a broader reach than many people may realize. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 20 percent of adults in the United States encounter a mood disorder at least once in their lifetime.
Bipolar disorder has been known by many names over the years. Once called “cycling mood disorder,” it evolved to be referred to as “manic depression” or “manic depressive illness.” Though it is known as “bipolar disorder” today, many people still say “manic depression.” You may also hear reference to a “mixed-state episode.”
Bipolar Disorder 1
This mood disorder, also known as manic depressive bipolar disorder, is characterized by a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, as well as abnormally and persistently increased goal-directed or impulsive activity. It is associated with significantly reduced sleep and impairment. There are often periods of depression that occur outside of these periods of elevated mood.
Bipolar Disorder 2
This mood disorder is associated with more subtle and shorter periods of abnormally elevated and expansive mood. It can result in a decreased need for sleep, increased productivity, distractibility, and impulsivity. There are often periods of depression that occur outside of these periods of elevated mood.
Major Depressive Disorder
A mood disorder with the primary mood consisting of prolonged depressed mood for most days for at least two weeks is considered a major depressive disorder. This is associated with decreased ability to experience joy and other physical and psychological symptoms. There are periods of normal mood between episodes of depressed mood.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Longer in duration than a major depressive disorder, a persistent depressive disorder is characterized by a prolonged period of low or depressed mood that has been present for most days for at least two years. This mood disorder is commonly associated with impairment in sleep, appetite, concentration, and focus. It is difficult to find days when mood feels normal or elevated.
Meet Dr. Buinewicz
Jacob D. Buinewicz, MD is a board certified general psychiatrist. He graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
Trained in the combined use of psychotherapy and medication, he offers evidence based treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders. He has specific expertise in mood and bipolar disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. He also offers care for common sources of stress including life transitions, decreased productivity at work, relationship issues, and grief.
Dr. Buinewicz believes all treatment should begin with a patient-centered comprehensive and holistic evaluation. Patients are involved in creating a treatment plan that may include medications, therapy, or a combination of both. He believes that therapy is often a critical component of care as evidence shows that it provides benefit over medication alone. His therapeutic approach is tailored to the individual patient and contains elements of psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Contact Dr. Jacob D. Buinewicz, MD for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and personalized treatment plan at 484-466-5560.
How Do We Treat Mood and Bipolar Disorders at Buckingham Psychiatry?
Diagnosis and treatment for mood disorders is possible after a thorough evaluation that rules out other causes—including medical—that could be contributing to a patient’s symptoms.
The diagnosis itself is based on a thorough and holistic evaluation by Dr. Buinewicz. Treatment can include therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, or a combination of all three. There are a variety of treatments that can be implemented in the outpatient setting, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and sleep aids.
Bipolar Disorder: Demystifying Manic Depression
A significant form of mood disorder, bipolar disorder—also often called manic depression—is marked by unpredictable and extreme changes in mood, energy levels, and activity. Two primary forms of this disorder have been identified: bipolar I and bipolar II, as mentioned previously.
The driving factors behind bipolar disorder are usually a combination of genetic aspects, chemical imbalances in the brain, and environmental factors such as intense stressful situations or trauma.
Proactive Measures and Coping Strategies for Individuals Living with Bipolar Disorder and their Support Network
Living with manic depression/bipolar disorder comes with its unique set of challenges—not just for the person experiencing the disorder, but also for their family and close circle of friends. Problem-solving and coping strategies that help manage the disorder on a daily basis play a pivotal role in mitigating its impact. Here are some practical and effective measures that can make a notable difference:
Lifestyle Changes
The power of tweaks in everyday habits cannot be underestimated when it comes to handling bipolar disorder. Something as simple as adhering to a regular sleep cycle can go a long way. Sleep disruption can aggravate mood swings and make the symptoms worse. Therefore, ensuring sufficient sleep and maintaining a regular sleep routine is crucial.
Regular physical activity is another cornerstone of mental well-being. Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and less anxious. It also improves sleep and contributes to overall well-being.
In addition to exercise, stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or meditation can play a critical role. These practices can provide a much-needed pause in the day and significantly bolster mood stability and overall mental health.
Therapy Options
A key weapon in fighting bipolar disorder comes in the form of therapy. While several forms of psychotherapy can help, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown a high degree of efficacy. CBT works by identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns that can lead to harmful feelings or actions. When used in conjunction with a properly administered medication plan, this approach substantially increases a person’s capacity to manage their bipolar symptoms.
Medication Management
The importance of diligently adhering to a prescribed medication regimen cannot be stressed enough. This is a fundamental part of managing bipolar disorder. Fluctuations in medication can lead to a chemical imbalance, which can then trigger an episode. Thus, working closely with a healthcare provider and promptly communicating any side effects or changes in mood is vital. This two-way communication can ensure that the medication plan is tailored to the patient’s needs and works towards achieving optimal stability and symptom control.
Support Groups
Being part of a community that understands the unique challenges of living with bipolar disorder or manic depression can provide immense emotional comfort and practical advice. These support groups could be in-person groups locally available or even online communities. Here, individuals can find not just emotional support, but also practical advice based on real experiences. Groups also present a platform to share one’s own experiences, which can be cathartic and provide a sense of empowerment.
Key Takeaways
Grasping the intricacies of mood disorders—including manic depression/bipolar disorder—is a pillar of support for anyone impacted by mood disorders. Staying updated with current advancements, prioritizing practical coping strategies, and empathetic support can significantly improve the journey of those living with these disorders.
Residents and neighbors of Doylestown, PA, have access to a variety of resources to help them navigate the complexities of bipolar disorder. Remember that a well-informed mind, a commitment to treatment, a robust support network, and a highly trained and supportive medical professional coordinating your care efforts can empower you to turn the tides.