SPECIALTIES: BIPOLAR DISORDER


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.  
DR. ART BOWLER
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                     (646) 823-5080
     DrArt@DrArtBowler.com
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NYC PSYCHOLOGIST