November 2009 Newsletter
November 2, 2009
Could it be Bipolar? What does Bipolar Really Mean?
by Stephen H. Hill, Ph.D.
Many with Bipolar Depression spend years of frustration receiving the wrong advice and the wrong medicines for this very treatable type of depression. Bipolar depression can also be surprisingly common in its milder forms—perhaps representing 25% of depression cases in one study. In addition to depression symptoms, those with bipolar depression additionally experience either “highs” in energy or mood, or recurrent irritability, disturbed sleep and/or uncharacteristic behavior.
Bipolar Depression can be very difficult to evaluate. Traditional tests and even the official DSM list of symptoms is typically just one piece of the puzzle in arriving at an accurate diagnosis. Equally important as self-observed symptoms are:
the family’s mental health history
friends’ and family perception of symptoms
past response to medication
age at the first major depression
long-term patterns in symptoms
As this long list suggests, working with a provider who truly specializes in Bipolar can be critical to getting the right diagnosis and the right help in a timely way. In one study, those with a Bipolar depression went undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for an average of 12 years.
Self-tests and extensive online information on Bipolar are available at hillpsychology.com.
If you have questions about Bipolar, are seeking a second opinion, or are looking to re-establish counseling, one of the professionals at Jefferson Street Counseling & Consulting would be happy to meet with you. After getting to know you as a human being, we’ll then learn what symptoms of Bipolar Depression you’d like to address first. From there, we can choose an approach that has been proven effective and that also suits your own preferences and personality. Family members are welcome to attend, and they may even come in for consultation without the person of concern if he/she isn’t ready to seek help yet. To set an appointment call 385-0888.
Note: Dr. Hill recently presented on Bipolar depression both at a free community presentation and to physicians with St. Luke’s Family Medicine. If you are interested in receiving the handouts from this event, or in sponsoring a similar presentation for your organization, please contact Dr. Hill directly. For a list of additional topics the professionals at Jefferson Street Counseling & Consulting can present, please contact us at 385-0888.