Bipolar Disorderin Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, & Littleton, CO

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These may include emotional highs, known as mania or hypomania, and emotional lows associated with depression. These changes can affect far more than your emotions; they can influence your sleep, concentration, judgment, relationships, work, and physical well-being.

Bipolar disorder does not look the same for everyone. Some individuals experience long periods of stability between episodes, while others notice mood changes more frequently. Because its symptoms can overlap with other mental health and medical conditions, a thorough assessment is important for developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Dr. McGuire takes the time to look beyond a single symptom or diagnosis. She reviews your medical history, previous treatments, current medications, sleep patterns, physical health, and other conditions that may be affecting your mood. This comprehensive approach can help identify patterns, clarify your diagnosis, and ensure that your providers are working toward the same goals.

Types of Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I disorder involves at least one manic episode. Major depressive episodes may occur before or after the manic episode, but they are not required for a diagnosis. In some cases, mania may include psychosis or a break from reality.

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II disorder involves at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, without a history of a full manic episode. Although hypomania is less severe than mania, the depressive episodes associated with bipolar II disorder can significantly affect daily life.

Cyclothymia

Cyclothymia involves recurring periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that continue for at least two years in adults. These symptoms do not meet the full criteria for a hypomanic or major depressive episode, but they can still cause ongoing changes in mood and functioning.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Mania, hypomania, and depression are the primary mood states associated with bipolar disorder, but their intensity and frequency vary. Some people primarily seek help for depression and may not initially recognize that periods of increased energy, reduced need for sleep, or impulsive behavior could also be part of the condition. Identifying these patterns can help distinguish bipolar disorder from ADHD, anxiety, trauma-related conditions, and other concerns with similar symptoms.

Mania Symptoms

• Abnormally elevated mood
• Irritability
• Extreme changes in thoughts, energy, and activity levels
• Participating in activities that may cause physical, social, or financial harm
• 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

Bipolar disorder can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing the condition. Having a first-degree relative with bipolar disorder is one of the strongest known risk factors. Trauma, significant stress, substance use, sleep disruption, and certain medical conditions may also trigger or intensify symptoms.

Diagnosis can become more complicated when mood changes occur alongside anxiety, ADHD, trauma-related symptoms, chronic pain, migraines, sleep disorders, or other medical concerns. A comprehensive assessment helps Dr. McGuire consider how these concerns may interact instead of evaluating each symptom separately.

Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder

Medication 

Medication can play an important role in managing bipolar disorder, but choosing the right treatment may require more than a brief medication check. Dr. McGuire reviews your complete medication list, previous responses to treatment, current symptoms, physical health, and recommendations from other providers. This helps her identify what may be helping, what may be contributing to unwanted effects, and where adjustments could be discussed.

The most common medications used are mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants. Any recommendation is based on your diagnosis, health history, current treatment plan, and individual needs. Medication may be combined with therapy, consistent sleep routines, and other supportive strategies to promote long-term stability.

Therapy

Along with medication, therapy can also be an effective treatment for bipolar disorder. With your permission, Dr. McGuire can collaborate with your therapist, primary care provider, or other specialists so that each person involved in your care understands the treatment goals and recommendations. This can be especially helpful when you have received conflicting advice or have been left trying to coordinate your care on your own.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are commonly recommended, although the best therapeutic approach depends on your individual circumstances and treatment goals.

Therapy may help you recognize changes in mood, challenge unhelpful beliefs, regulate emotions, improve distress tolerance, and develop practical ways to manage stress. It can also help you identify early warning signs and create a plan for addressing symptoms before they become more severe.

Bipolar Disorder FAQs

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re living with bipolar disorder, Dr. McGuire offers a thoughtful, comprehensive approach designed to bring clarity to your care. Schedule a consultation with Cottonwood Psychiatry today by calling our office or completing 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.

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Dr. Colleen McGuire

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Cottonwood Psychiatry |  + postsBio ⮌

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.

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