Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. If you or your loved one shows signs of bipolar disorder, reach out to Neuropsychological Services of New Mexico. We serve Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, and all areas throughout New Mexico. Our skilled mental health professionals provide expert assessment and complete treatment for children age 5 and up, as well as adults who are dealing with bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Disorder FAQ

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These aren't just normal ups and downs—they're intense changes that can affect your ability to function in daily life. During manic episodes, you might feel unusually energetic, overly happy, or irritable. During depressive episodes, you might feel very sad, hopeless, or lose interest in activities you normally enjoy. These mood episodes can last from days to weeks or even months. Bipolar disorder typically begins in the late teens or early twenties, though it can appear in children or later in life. Without treatment, bipolar disorder can significantly impact relationships, work, school performance, and overall quality of life. The team at Neuropsychological Services of New Mexico can help children age 5 and older, as well as adults of any age who have bipolar disorder symptoms.

What symptoms does bipolar disorder cause?

Bipolar disorder symptoms vary depending on whether someone is experiencing a manic, hypomanic, or depressive episode:

Manic episode symptoms:

• Feeling extremely happy, "high," or irritable for most of the day

• Having much more energy than usual

• Feeling like your thoughts are racing

• Talking very fast and jumping from topic to topic

• Needing much less sleep than usual

• Believing you can do many things at once

• Taking risks or making impulsive decisions (like spending sprees or risky behavior)

• Feeling unusually important or powerful

Hypomanic episodes:

• Similar to manic symptoms but less severe

• Don't cause major problems with daily functioning

• May feel very productive and good

Depressive episode symptoms:

• Feeling very sad, empty, or hopeless

• Having very low energy and feeling tired all the time

• Having trouble concentrating or making decisions

• Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or too little)

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy

• Feeling worthless or guilty

• Thoughts of death or suicide

In children and teens, bipolar disorder might show up as severe mood swings that are different from their usual mood changes, extreme silliness or happiness followed by irritability and anger, or risky behavior that's not typical for their age.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Neuropsychological Services of New Mexico offers several bipolar disorder treatments, including:

Individual therapy: Specialized therapy approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation help you understand your condition, recognize early warning signs of mood episodes, and develop coping strategies. Therapy provides tools for managing symptoms and maintaining stability in your daily life.

Medication Management: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and sometimes antidepressants are essential for managing bipolar disorder. These medications help balance mood swings, reduce the severity of episodes, and prevent future episodes. Finding the right medication combination often takes time and close monitoring by your provider.

Call Neuropsychological Services of New Mexico today or schedule an appointment online for expert help with bipolar disorder in children and adults.