Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition involving episodes of depression and episodes of mania or hypomania. Symptoms vary widely between individuals and may affect mood, energy, sleep, thinking, and behavior.

Symptoms may include prolonged depression, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, increased energy, impulsive spending, risky behaviors, irritability, rapid speech, difficulty concentrating, or periods of unusually elevated mood. Many women spend more time experiencing depression than mania.

Everyone experiences changes in mood. Bipolar disorder involves distinct episodes that last days to weeks and significantly affect daily functioning, relationships, work, or decision-making.

Yes. Racing thoughts, impulsivity, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and emotional dysregulation can overlap with ADHD and anxiety disorders. A thorough psychiatric evaluation helps distinguish between these conditions.

Yes. Pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause may influence mood stability in some women. Hormonal changes are one of several factors considered when developing a treatment plan.

Diagnosis is based on a detailed psychiatric evaluation, including your symptom history, mood episodes, family history, medical conditions, and the duration and pattern of symptoms over time.

Treatment often includes mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, healthy sleep habits, stress management, and regular follow-up care. Treatment is individualized based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and goals.

Antidepressants may be appropriate in some situations but are generally not used alone in bipolar disorder because they can increase the risk of triggering mania or rapid cycling in some individuals. Treatment decisions should always be individualized and made with a qualified psychiatric provider.

Yes. I provide secure telehealth psychiatric evaluations and medication management for women located in Texas, New Mexico, Washington, and Delaware.