Signs of a manic or hypomanic episode
- Needing much less sleep without feeling tired
- Racing thoughts and fast, pressured speech
- Feeling unusually confident, energetic or irritable
- Taking risks, spending heavily or making impulsive decisions
- Starting many projects at once and being easily distracted
Between episodes
- Periods of depression that can last weeks or months
- Times of stable mood in between, which can make the pattern hard to see
How we help
A careful diagnosis
Bipolar disorder is often mistaken for depression alone. We look at your full history, family history and mood patterns.
Mood-stabilizing medicine
Medicines that prevent episodes, with lab monitoring when needed, such as lithium levels and kidney and thyroid checks.
A relapse plan
Your personal early warning signs, sleep protection, and what to do when they appear.
Family education
With your permission, we help family members understand the condition and how to support you.
What to expect
- Treatment focuses on long-term stability, not only the current episode.
- Regular follow-up visits help catch changes early, before they become a crisis.
Common questions
Can I stop my medicine once I feel well?
Stopping mood stabilizers suddenly is one of the most common triggers of a new episode. If you want to change or stop, talk with us first so we can plan it safely.
Is bipolar disorder the same as mood swings?
No. Bipolar episodes last days to weeks and change sleep, energy and behavior, not just mood within a day.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Every person is different, and your treatment plan is decided with your clinician.