Bipolar disorder has previously been known as manic-depressive disorder or manic depression.  The symptoms of bipolar disorder are:  

• Extreme mood swings (from extremely up to extremely down) 

• Changes in energy and activity levels 

• Intense emotions

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Uncharacteristic behavior 

• Difficulty concentrating 

• Inability to complete day-to-day activities  

Medical science has not discovered the exact cause of bipolar disorder but suspects that the combination of altered brain chemistry and structure, environment, and genetics may play a role.  

Treatment of bipolar disorder typically consists of psychotherapy and medication.  

Bipolar disorder is classified, depending on the length and intensity of the manic episodes:  

• Bipolar I Disorder 

• Bipolar II Disorder 

• Cyclothymic Disorder (or Cyclothymia)

• Other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders

Bipolar disorders typically appear during the teen years or early adulthood and also can manifest during pregnancy or following childbirth.  Bipolar treatment generally requires lifelong treatment but with proper treatment and compliance, patients can manage the condition and lead active and healthy lives.  

The ability to manage and live with this disorder is usually dependent upon proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.  Mara Fiorentino, M.D., strives to make her patients’ lives better by providing the best treatment plans possible for each individual.