Bipolar Disorder

If you notice periods of unusually elevated or energized mood alternating with episodes of depression, it may be helpful to be evaluated for bipolar disorder.  At Spring Azure Psychiatry & Wellness in Greenwood Village, Colorado, highly trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Dr. Alyssa Nadolny, DNP, PMHNP-BC, diagnoses and treats bipolar disorder in children, teenagers, and adults. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by calling the Spring Azure Psychiatry & Wellness office or booking an appointment online today. 

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and overall functioning. These changes may include periods of depression cycled with an elevated mood (mania), increased energy, impulsivity, a decreased need for sleep, and thought and behavior changes. 

Bipolar disorder exists on a spectrum and can present differently from person to person. Because symptoms may overlap with depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or trauma-related conditions, an accurate diagnosis is essential. 

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

The different types of bipolar disorder are as follows:

• Bipolar I disorder: at least one manic episode that may appear before or after hypomanic (less severe form of mania) or major depressive episodes
• Bipolar II disorder: at least one major depressive episode paired with at least one hypomanic episode (no manic episodes)
• Cyclothymia: at least two years (at least one year in children and teenagers) of hypomania with depressive symptoms. 

Your personalized treatment plan is based on the type of bipolar disorder you have, its severity, and if you have any other mental health concerns. 

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing bipolar disorder at Spring Azure Psychiatry & Wellness begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, reviewing your medical history and overall functioning to guide appropriate treatment. Alyssa discusses your moods, emotions, behaviors, thoughts, and lifestyle habits using DSM-5 criteria to customize a plan with a holistic approach. 

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Treatment at Spring Azure Psychiatry & Wellness is individualized and collaborative. Your plan may include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• Accurate diagnosis and differential assessment
• Medication management
• Ongoing symptom monitoring and dose optimization
• Psychoeducation
• Coordination with therapy
• Management of co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions
• Monitoring progress and adjusting treatment over time
• Guidance during life transitions or stressors

The goal is to help you feel better, understand your mood patterns, reduce symptom recurrence, improve stability, and enhance your quality of life. With appropriate support and treatment, many individuals with bipolar disorder lead balanced and fulfilling lives.

Schedule an in-person or virtual bipolar disorder evaluation with Alyssa at Spring Azure Psychiatry & Wellness by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.