Quick Links
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (known as mania), where you are excited and full of energy, and emotional lows (known as depression), where you feel sad and hopeless. These episodes of mood swings can happen rarely, a couple of times a year, or more rapidly, and the episodes can last for a few hours, several days, or weeks.
The mood swings associated with bipolar disorder can affect every aspect of your life, including your sleep, judgment, behaviors, energy levels, and cognition.
Between episodes, you may have long periods of emotional stability, but as bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it’s important to regularly monitor and manage your symptoms.
There are a few different types of bipolar disorders, including:
- Bipolar I disorder: You’ve had at least one manic episode, and it may come before or after a major depressive episode. The mania may cause a break with reality. A depressive episode isn’t always needed for this diagnosis
- Bipolar II disorder: You’ve had at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. But you’ve never had a full manic episode.
- Cyclothymia. You’ve had at least two years of many periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms. The depressive symptoms are less severe than major depression.
Patient
Testimonial
“I cannot recommend Dr. Colleen McGuire highly enough. She has been an incredible support in helping me manage my mental health, and her care has truly been life-changing. From the very beginning, she created a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where I felt heard, valued, and understood.”
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Mania and depression are the two major signs of bipolar disorder, but what do mania and depression look like? There are some symptoms to look out for, including the following:
Mania Symptoms
- Abnormally elevated mood
- Irritability
- Extreme changes in thoughts, energy, and activity levels
- Engaging activities that can cause physical, social, or financial harm (increased impulsivity)
- Delusions and hallucinations
- Rapid speech
- Racing thoughts
Depression Symptoms
- Tiredness
- Changes in appetite
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
- Overwhelming sadness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia or excessive sleep
- Thoughts of death or suicide (suicidal ideation)
Risk Factors of Bipolar Disorder
While anyone can develop bipolar disorder, several risk factors make it more likely in some patients than others. One of the main risk factors includes having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with the disorder. Drug and alcohol misuse, periods of high stress, or trauma can increase your likelihood as well.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
Medication
Medication is typically one of the first steps taken toward treating bipolar disorder, and there are several options. The type of medication prescribed will depend on your symptoms and the type of bipolar disorder you have. The most common medications used are mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants. These medications can help address the extreme mood swings and ensure you are more able to manage your emotions. Medications are often paired with therapy.
Therapy
Along with medication, therapy can also be an effective treatment for bipolar disorder. At Cottonwood Psychiatry, Dr. McGuire will build a custom therapy plan that meets your unique symptoms and lifestyle factors. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectic behavior therapy (DBT) are typically what she recommends the most, but different approaches can work for different clients.
During therapy, you’ll focus on identifying unhealthy beliefs and behaviors, work on regulating your emotions and distress tolerance, and learn new ways to manage stress.
Bipolar Disorder FAQs
Can bipolar disorder be managed with telehealth appointments at Cottonwood Psychiatry?
What types of therapy are effective for bipolar disorder at Cottonwood Psychiatry?
Can Cottonwood Psychiatry coordinate care for individuals with both bipolar disorder and substance use challenges?
How soon can I expect improvements after starting bipolar disorder treatment?
Does Cottonwood Psychiatry help develop lifestyle plans for bipolar disorder management?
Schedule a Consultation
Discover a healthy treatment plan for your bipolar disorder with the help of Dr. McGuire at Cottonwood Psychiatry. She will be your partner and guide as you take the journey to a healthier you. Take the first step and schedule a consultation today. Call our Denver office or message us via our online contact form.
Dr. Colleen McGuire
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine specializing in Psychiatry with a background in Anthropology and Music from the University of New Mexico, pre-med studies in Denver, and a medical degree from Touro University in California. She completed her residency at the University of Colorado, serving as Chief Resident, and has held key roles such as Attending Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Denver Health, as well as working in various inpatient, outpatient, and telepsychiatry settings. Dr. McGuire specializes in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, utilizing therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Known for her empathetic, client-centered approach and strong collaborative relationships, she is licensed in multiple states and enjoys mentoring nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Outside of work, she is a classical pianist, swimmer, and animal lover who values personal growth and creativity.
Read MoreSchedule Consultation
Start your journey toward the life you’ve always wanted with the help of Dr. McGuire at Cottonwood Psychiatry, and contact us today. Fill out our contact form below.
Dr. Colleen McGuire, DO, is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with a holistic approach to mental health. She completed her medical training at Touro University and residency at the University of Colorado, where she served as Chief Resident. Specializing in trauma, midlife hormonal issues, and alternatives to medication, Dr. McGuire integrates therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Licensed in multiple states, she is known for her empathetic, client-centered care and dedication to mentoring. Outside work, she enjoys piano, swimming, and spending time with animals.