Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

“Though I am often in the depths of misery, there is still calmness, pure harmony and music inside me.”
― Vincent van Gogh

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with bipolar disorder?  Did you experience a manic episode or have to be hospitalized for your health and wellbeing?  Are you looking for a treatment team that can offer personalized therapy and medication you need?

Let us help.

Bipolar disorder (sometimes referred to as manic depressive) is a relatively common health condition that affects your ability to regulate your mood and manage your behavior.  It is marked by phases of depressive and manic symptoms that can last for days or even weeks at a time.  As one of the more serious and chronic mental health issues, bipolar disorder often requires professional support and intervention in order to reach a place of wellness.

There are three main types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia.

Bipolar I disorder is diagnosed when a person experiences at least one period of mania, also called a manic episode.  Manic symptoms can include multiple days and nights without a need to sleep, hyperactivity, racing thoughts, impulsivity (e.g., spending all the money in your bank account in one night), hypersexuality, and rapid speech.  People with bipolar I disorder may also experience bouts of depression, which can include depressed mood, difficulties with sleep, suicidal thoughts*, loss of energy or drive, and hopelessness.

Bipolar II disorder is similar to bipolar I, although the manic symptoms are much less severe, which is why they are called hypomanic episodes.  Depression is also very common in bipolar II, and the depressive episodes tend to be more frequent.

Cyclothymia is the least severe form of bipolar disorder, as the symptoms of depression and mania are mild.  However, as the name suggests, people with cyclothymia will experience more frequent cycles of mania and depression over time.

Bipolar disorder alters the functioning of the mind and body because it is so neurologically bound.  In other words, the symptoms can be directly traced back to the way your nervous system is firing.

As you might expect, bipolar is highly heritable.  If bipolar disorder runs in your family, then you have an increased risk of having it compared to the average population.  People who have a genetic propensity for bipolar disorder will typically experience their first manic episodes in adolescence and early adulthood.

Treatment for bipolar is designed to address the neurological underpinnings of the disorder while also helping you build a life worth living, which is why the gold-standard involves a combination of psychiatric and psychological intervention.

Medication for bipolar disorder typically involves a mood-stabilizing medication that helps decrease the likelihood and severity of manic episodes.  While any psychiatrist can prescribe mood stabilizers, Integrative Psychiatrists like Dr. Adam Pruett can also offer suggestions for herbs, supplements, and dietary changes based on your medical history and symptoms.  These interventions can help your body regulate and perform better as you make progress towards your goals.

All of our services are entirely confidential and offered both online as well as in person.  We work with teens (16+) and adults from all over Vermont: Manchester, Dorset, Bennington, Rutland, Londonderry, Winhall, Arlington, Shaftsbury, West Dover, and beyond.  We work collaboratively to help you reach your goals as efficiently and effectively as possible.  We strive to help you feel supported, understood, and cared for as you make your wellness journey.

No matter how long you’ve struggled, no matter how hopeless things might seem, we can help.