Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder impacts many patients and families.  These individuals deal with both depression and mood swings which interfere with daily life.  Board-certified psychiatrist and board-eligible internal medicine specialist Meredith Godwin, MD, provides comprehensive mental health care for bipolar disorder at Godwin Psychiatry in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Call today or use the online booking tool to schedule a bipolar disorder consultation.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes unpredictable shifts in mood, energy, and behavior.   These intense mood swings can last for days or weeks, interfering with your daily functioning, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.  Patients often experience severe depression that does not respond to traditional treatments. 

Are there different types of bipolar disorder?

The most common types of bipolar disorder are:

Bipolar I

Bipolar I causes manic episodes that last at least seven or are severe enough to need hospitalization. These manic episodes are typically followed by depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks.

Bipolar II

Bipolar II involves a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of Bipolar 1. Hypomanic episodes are less severe than manic episodes but still involve elevated mood and increased energy.

What are the signs of bipolar disorder?

The signs of bipolar disorder can vary depending on the type and severity. Common bipolar disorder symptoms typically include:

• Episodes of mania or hypomania
• Episodes of depression
• Family History of Bipolar Disorder
• Mood swings
• Changes in activity levels
• Impaired judgment and decision-making
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
• Irritability or agitation
• Relationship problems
• Difficulties at work or school
• Disruptions in daily functioning

With extensive experience diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder, Godwin Psychiatry can help you manage bipolar disorder’s symptoms.

What are the most effective treatments for bipolar disorder?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for bipolar disorder. Instead, your psychiatrist at Godwin Psychiatry focuses on managing your unique symptoms and tailoring a comprehensive treatment plan that may include a combination of:

• Medication management
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal therapy
• Family-focused therapy
• Psychoeducation
• Mood tracking and self-monitoring techniques
• Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding substance use, and engaging in regular exercise
• Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or relaxation exercises
• Social support networks and peer counseling groups

With personalized care, you can lead a more fulfilling and balanced life with bipolar disorder.

Call Godwin Psychiatry today to schedule a bipolar disorder consultation.