Bipolar Disorder
What Is It?
Chronic mood disorder with alternating episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. Bipolar I includes full manic episodes. Bipolar II includes hypomanic episodes. Significant impairment and suicide risk.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis. Rule out medical causes (thyroid, steroids, stimulants). BSDS or MDQ screening tools. Detailed psychiatric history.
How Is It Treated?
Mood stabilizers (lithium, valproate, lamotrigine) are cornerstone. Atypical antipsychotics (quetiapine, lurasidone, aripiprazole). Psychotherapy (CBT, IPSRT). Psychiatry co-management essential.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
TSH, BMP (lithium monitoring: creatinine, electrolytes), CBC, lithium level, valproate level if applicable.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Mood stabilizers: $10-$50/month. Psychiatry referral for complex management.