Bipolar disorder is a mental condition in which a person has wide or extreme swings in their mood. Periods of feeling sad and depressed may alternate with periods of intense excitement and activity or being cross or irritable.

Here are some common symptoms associated with the manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder (BPD). It’s important to note that people may experience these symptoms differently or at different intensities. 

Manic Phase 

• Feeling overly happy, energetic, or irritable 

• Rapid speech and racing thoughts 

• Increased activity levels, energy, or restlessness 

• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity 

• Reduced need for sleep 

• Engaging in risky behaviors 

Depressive Phase 

• Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty 

• Loss of interest in most activities 

• Fatigue or loss of energy 

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much 

• Changes in appetite or weight 

• Trouble focusing, remembering, or choosing 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, psychotherapy (talk therapy) can be an effective part of treatment for individuals with bipolar disorder. Therefore, individuals living with bipolar disorder should consider seeing a therapist. Therapists are trained in psychotherapy to help people manage their symptoms, learn coping strategies, and improve their quality of life.   

A licensed therapist with experience in treating bipolar disorder is likely to be the best choice. This can include:  

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide therapy. 

• Psychologists are mental health specialists who offer therapy but do not prescribe medication. 

• Licensed professional counselors are trained in talk therapy to help people manage symptoms.  

• Social workers can offer counseling and connect patients with resources and support services.  

Bipolar Disorder (BPD) is not categorized by stages but by types (e.g., bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder). The disorder itself does not progress (get worse over time), but symptoms may become more persistent or difficult to manage. Late-onset Bipolar Disorder (BPD) happens when someone experiences symptoms and receives a diagnosis later in life – usually after the age of 50.   

Symptoms of bipolar disorder (BPD) typically appear in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 20 and 40. However, they can also occur in children and older adults. 

The life expectancy of someone living with bipolar disorder may be shorter than average due to co-occurring medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and an increased risk of self-harm. However, with treatment, including medication and therapy, individuals living with bipolar disorder (BPD) can lead fulfilling lives. 

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near New York, NY
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Los Angeles, CA
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Chicago, IL
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Houston, TX
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Phoenix, AZ
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Philadelphia, PA
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Atlanta, GA
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Boston, MA
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near Dallas, TX
Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Bipolar Disorder (BPD) doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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