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Bipolar disorder is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. People often reduce it to “mood swings” or assume it’s just about being happy one moment and sad the next.

But for those who live with it, bipolar disorder can feel like a rollercoaster with no seatbelt—surging energy, racing thoughts, emotional crashes, and long stretches of depression.

At Oak Health Center, we work with individuals and families to understand what bipolar really looks like, and more importantly—how to treat it with compassion, consistency, and clinical expertise.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes intense shifts in mood, energy, and behavior. It typically includes episodes of:

• Mania or Hypomania – Elevated or irritable mood, increased activity, decreased need for sleep, impulsive decisions, racing thoughts, grandiosity.
  
• Depression – Low energy, hopelessness, loss of interest in daily activities, sleep and appetite changes, suicidal thoughts.
  

There are different types of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar I – Full manic episodes, often alternating with major depression
  
• Bipolar II – Hypomanic episodes (less intense than mania) with recurring depression
  
• Cyclothymia – Milder but chronic mood instability
  

Proper diagnosis requires a detailed evaluation—not just based on a moment in time, but on your full emotional and behavioral history.

What Treatment Really Looks Like

Managing bipolar disorder is not about “fixing” emotions—it’s about achieving mood stability, reducing the risk of relapse, and building a meaningful, functional life.

At Oak Health Center, treatment typically includes a blend of:

1. 

Medication Management

Bipolar disorder almost always requires medication to manage mood episodes. Depending on your needs, this may include:

• Mood stabilizers (like lithium or lamotrigine)
  
• Atypical antipsychotics
  
• Antidepressants (used cautiously and only with a mood stabilizer)
  

Our psychiatry team closely monitors your symptoms, side effects, and progress over time—adjusting medications as needed.

2. 

Therapy and Counseling

Psychotherapy plays a crucial role in long-term management. Our licensed therapists help with:

• Recognizing early warning signs of mood shifts
  
• Creating daily routines and structure
  
• Managing relationships, work, and emotional regulation
  
• Coping with shame, stigma, or past trauma
  

CBT, interpersonal therapy, and family-focused therapy are particularly helpful for people living with bipolar disorder.

3. 

Family Support and Psychoeducation

Involving loved ones in care—when appropriate—can help improve communication and reduce the likelihood of crisis. We also offer family therapy when needed.

4. 

Integrated, Ongoing Care

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but it’s manageable. Ongoing support from a team that understands the nuances of your diagnosis makes a major difference.

At Oak Health Center, your therapist and psychiatrist work together to ensure your treatment is cohesive and personalized—not fragmented.

You Are More Than Your Diagnosis

Bipolar disorder doesn’t define you. It doesn’t mean you’re unreliable or unstable. With proper treatment, many people go on to lead fulfilling, creative, successful lives.

But it starts with getting the right diagnosis—and the right kind of care.

Get Support That Works

If you suspect you or a loved one may be living with bipolar disorder, don’t wait for things to get worse. Reach out today and take the first step toward stability.

Schedule a confidential consultation

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