Specialties.
Bipolar disorder (formerly manic-depression).
Each one of us experiences variations in our moods. Sometimes we are happy,
sometimes we are not. If we were to graph our moods, they would appear
somewhat even and stable. But some people experience extreme shifts in their
mood state that other people cannot understand. People with bipolar disorder,
formerly known as manic-depression, experience noticeable mood changes
between a state of depression and a state of euphoria or irritability called mania.
While the level and intensity of these episodes may vary in degree and duration,
the mood instability can often prevent the individual who experiences it from living
a stable, comfortable, and manageable life.
Symptoms of a manic episode include an exceptionally euphoric/irritable mood,
an inflated sense of grandiosity/self-esteem, a decreased need for sleep, a rapid
speech pattern, racing and/or tangential thoughts, an increase in goal directed
activity, distractibility, and excessive involvement in pleasurable activities that
could have negative consequences. Symptoms of a depressive episode include
a depressed mood for over two weeks, a loss of interest in activities which once
brought you joy, changes in appetite and sleeping, difficultly concentrating, a lack
of energy, slowed movements, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of death
or suicide. Sometimes the moods fluctuate very quickly, and sometimes over a
significant period of time. Either way, the disorder often is troublesome to the
individual and those closest to them.
Only a trained professional can properly diagnosis this disorder. And with proper
diagnosis and proper treatment, living a rich and fulfilling life is possible.
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DR. ART BOWLER
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138 West 25th Street, Suite 618 646.823.5080
New York, New York 10001 drart@drartbowler.com