A period of elevated or irritable mood with increased energy and activity lasting at least 4 days, noticeable to others but not causing marked impairment or hospitalization.

Are antidepressants used in bipolar disorder?

They can sometimes trigger mood elevation. If used, they are typically combined with a mood stabilizer and monitored closely. Many patients do well on mood stabilizers or atypical antipsychotics without antidepressants.

Which therapies help with bipolar disorder?

CBT, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), family-focused therapy, and psychoeducation all reduce relapse risk. Consistent sleep-wake routines and lifestyle structure are key.

Do you offer telehealth and perinatal consultation?

Yes. We provide secure virtual visits and can coordinate with OB/primary care to plan medication management before, during, and after pregnancy.

Bipolar Disorder – Arizon Wellness

Q: What is the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II?

Bipolar I includes at least one full manic episode, often with depressive episodes. Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes (less severe than mania) and at least one major depressive episode—no history of full mania.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood condition characterized by shifts between elevated moods (mania or hypomania) and depressive episodes. These cycles can disrupt sleep, energy, focus, and judgment. With accurate diagnosis, medication, therapy, and lifestyle routines, people can achieve stability and lead fulfilling lives.

Types & Core Symptoms

Bipolar I

At least one manic episode (elevated or irritable mood with high energy, decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, risky behavior) often with depressive episodes

Bipolar II

Recurrent hypomanic episodes (less severe than mania) and at least one major depressive episode

Cyclothymic Disorder

Chronic fluctuating mood with subclinical hypomanic and depressive symptoms

Heads up — Sleep loss and substances (stimulants, THC, alcohol) can precipitate mood episodes. Protecting sleep is crucial.

Risk Factors & Co-Occurring Conditions

Family history of bipolar or mood disorders
Stressful life events; seasonal or circadian disruption
Substance use
Co-occurring ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, or substance use disorders
Medical contributors (thyroid, sleep apnea) can affect mood stability

Diagnosis: How We Evaluate

Comprehensive clinical interview and timeline of mood episodes
Screening for mania/hypomania, depression, psychosis, and substance use
Sleep assessment and social rhythm review
Medical review and labs via primary care when indicated (e.g., thyroid)
Shared decision-making on goals and safety planning

Getting the diagnosis right guides effective treatment and relapse prevention.

Bipolar Treatment at Arizon Wellness

Mood-Stabilizing Medications

We individualize options such as lithium, valproate, lamotrigine, and atypical antipsychotics (e.g., quetiapine, lurasidone) based on episode pattern, side-effect profiles, and personal goals. We monitor closely and coordinate labs when needed.

Therapy: CBT & IPSRT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets thinking patterns and coping, while Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) stabilizes sleep/wake, meals, activity, and light exposure to protect mood rhythms. Family-focused therapy and psychoeducation improve communication and relapse prevention.

Lifestyle & Relapse Prevention

Sleep protection, light/dark routines, substance risk reduction, exercise and nutrition planning, early-warning sign tracking, and crisis/safety plans. We collaborate with employers/schools when helpful.

Special Situations

Perinatal planning, seasonal patterns, and treatment after mixed or rapid-cycling episodes. Telehealth available across Columbus.

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When to Seek Help

Periods of elevated energy, decreased need for sleep, risky spending, or impulsive behavior
Depression lasting 2+ weeks affecting work, school, or relationships
Frequent mood swings tied to sleep loss, substances, or stress
Past benefit from mood stabilizers but symptoms returning

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, or cannot care for basic needs, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II?

Bipolar I includes at least one full manic episode (often with depression). Bipolar II features hypomania (less severe) plus major depression—no history of full mania.

What is hypomania?

A distinct period of elevated/irritable mood and increased activity for at least 4 days, noticeable to others but not causing marked impairment or hospitalization.

Are antidepressants used?

Sometimes, and typically with a mood stabilizer to reduce the risk of switching into mania or rapid cycling. Many patients stabilize with mood stabilizers or atypical antipsychotics alone.

Which therapies help most?

CBT, IPSRT, family-focused therapy, and psychoeducation. Routines for sleep, activity, and light exposure are crucial for long-term stability.

Do you offer telehealth and perinatal planning?

Yes. We provide secure virtual visits and coordinate medication plans before/during/after pregnancy with your OB and primary care.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Columbus, OH

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