Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects a person’s mood and energy levels. However, who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults? Mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and clinical social workers will help run any diagnostic tests, as around 4.4% of adults in the United States will experience bipolar disorder at some time in their lives.1
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. Hypomania is periods of elevated mood and increased activity, while depression is a period of low mood and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. These episodes can last for days, weeks, or even months. These mood swings can affect a person’s ability to function in their daily life.
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 40 million people experienced bipolar disorder in 2019. The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not understood, but research suggests that genetics and environmental factors play a role.2
This type of bipolar disorder makes people have strong and long-lasting manic episodes, sometimes for more than a week. In some cases, healthcare providers may hospitalize individuals right away. People with bipolar I disorder also experience depressive episodes lasting for at least two weeks.
This type of bipolar disorder causes hypomanic episodes. The episodes last at least four days, along with depressive episodes that last at least two weeks. Hypomanic episodes are less severe than manic episodes but can still disrupt a person’s life.
Who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults and adolescents? Doctors perform a detailed evaluation to diagnose bipolar disorder. This evaluation involves reviewing the patient’s medical history and conducting a physical examination. Additionally, doctors administer psychological tests and conduct blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. These assessments rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms.
If you’re wondering “who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults?”, the answer is that many psychiatrists, psychologists, and clinical social workers help with the task. They have received special training to diagnose and treat mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. It’s essential to seek out a professional who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults to ensure a proper diagnosis and effective treatment.
The diagnostic process is a critical step in identifying and treating bipolar disorder. This involves the doctor examining your symptoms and health history. This helps them develop an effective treatment plan. Components of bipolar disorder diagnostic process include:4
A correct diagnosis of bipolar disorder can help people understand their symptoms and find the right treatment. Appropriate treatment can help relieve an individual’s symptoms of depression, mania, and hypomania. This makes it easier for them to manage daily tasks and improve their quality of life.
Proper diagnosis is also important for accessing appropriate treatment resources. Bipolar disorder is treated with a combination of medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes. With a proper diagnosis, individuals can access a wide range of resources and treatments tailored to their specific needs.
Getting the right diagnosis is very important in managing bipolar disorder. Other ways that a proper diagnosis can help individuals heal from bipolar disorder include:
The most common treatments for bipolar disorder include medication and psychotherapy. Medications like mood stabilizers can help manage symptoms of mania and depression. Psychotherapy can also help individuals manage their symptoms. This involves therapists teaching individuals coping skills and helping them develop healthy relationships.
Alternative therapies and support groups can also be effective treatments for bipolar disorder after you learn who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults. These therapies may include art therapy, music therapy, yoga, and animal-assisted therapy. Support groups provide individuals with a source of emotional support and encouragement.
Lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques reduce stress and promote wellness. Lifestyle changes include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and a consistent sleep schedule. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can also be beneficial in reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
We combine evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches to support individuals in achieving long-term recovery. We will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan that will help with your unique situation, symptoms, and bipolar diagnosis.
Remember, with proper diagnosis and treatment, you or your loved one can improve your quality of life. Often, the first step to this plan is figuring out who diagnoses bipolar disorder in adults and making an initial appointment. Then, you can start on your journey to healing and working through any symptoms you may have. Contact AIM today to begin your journey toward healing and wellness, and we will be with you every step of the way.
Gregory Ng is the CEO of Brooks Bell. In his nearly 25 years in marketing, Greg has created innovative solutions leading to digital and cognitive transformations for the biggest high-tech, retail and financial brands in the world. Greg adds knowledge in marketing strategy, content production, and brand awareness to the AHV advisory board.
Hunt Broyhill holds several positions within the Broyhill family offices and serves as President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of BMC Fund and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill Asset Management. Hunt brings valuable experience in capital allocation, real estate, and investor relations to the AHV advisory board.
Alan Hughes was formerly the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. In addition to BCBS, Alan held officer positions in both operations and technology at GE Commercial Finance, Deutsche Bank, and American Express. Alan brings a unique combination of efficient process design and technological problem solving to the AHV advisory board.
Lynn is the CEO of Broadstep. Previously, Lynn held various roles in both healthcare and finance where she oversaw multi-site, multi-state organizations within primary care, acute and chronic services, hospitals, and pharmacies. Lynn brings valuable experience in healthcare leadership, recruiting, and growth strategy to the AHV advisory board.
John Roos is the retired Senior Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Under Roos’s tenure, the company’s revenue grew from $1.5 billion to $9.5 billion, while adding 1 million members. John brings valuable experience in growth strategy, enterprise sales, and provider contracting to the AHV advisory board.
Dr. Hendree Jones is the Executive Director of UNC-Horizons and an internationally recognized expert in behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children. Dr. Jones has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1994 and has over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Jones is an advisor to the UN, WHO, SAMHSA, ASAM, and ACOG through which she consults throughout the United States and internationally. Dr. Jones brings valuable experience in grant writing, research, and healthcare administration to the AHV advisory board.
Brad is the CEO Emeritus for BCBSNC and Chair of the BCBSNC Foundation. He served as Gov. Jim Hunt’s general counsel and is a past chair of the UNC Board of Governors. Brad serves on numerous public and private boards and is a lifelong North Carolinian with degrees from Appalachian State, Wake Forest, and Duke. He brings valuable experience in healthcare, law, higher education, and politics.
Jake Summers is a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to bringing the energy of change to existing healthcare business models and making higher quality healthcare more accessible. Jake co-founded a mango farming/export company in Cambodia and serves as an advisor for a number of small businesses. Jake is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine and is the Development Director and a Partner of Green Hill.
Tripp Johnson is a serial healthcare entrepreneur who’s dedicated his post-military professional life to serving young adults. He is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine, Advaita Health Ventures, and Green Hill Recovery. Tripp is passionate about making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible through innovative business models and technology-focused solutions.