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Mood and Bipolar Disorders

Find Emotional Clarity and Stability with Therapy in the Philadelphia Area

Home » Mood and Bipolar Disorders

It’s perfectly normal to experience some fleeting mood shifts or changes from time to time as part of the human experience. They may be brought on by factors such as hormones, poor sleep, stress, good or bad news, anxiety, or other factors. Mood swings may be considered normal if they aren’t negatively impacting your life or the lives of those around you. However, moods that persist or that prompt overwhelmingly intense feelings or reactions may sometimes be signs of mood or bipolar disorders. Philadelphia-area patients concerned about mood and bipolar disorders—including what is sometimes referred to as “manic depressive bipolar disorder” or “manic depression”—should know that they are very common but can dramatically and negatively impact the quality of one’s professional and private life. Double board-certified general and addiction psychiatrist Dr. Jacob Buinewicz provides support and treatment for patients who have mood and bipolar disorders.

Mood and Bipolar Disorders in Doylestown, PA

FAQs

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To learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of mood and bipolar disorders in the Philadelphia area, contact Dr. Jacob D. Buinewicz at Buckingham Psychiatry. Located in Doylestown, Dr. Buinewicz welcomes patients from Philadelphia, Allentown, Bethlehem, Cherry Hill, Princeton, and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call 484.466.5560 to request a consultation.
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What Are Mood and Bipolar Disorders?

What counts as a mood or bipolar disorder? What does a mood or bipolar disorder feel like? If you have been experiencing strong emotions or sudden and dramatic changes in mood, here’s what you should know about how mood and bipolar disorders are defined.

Mood is a temporary state of mind, often described as how someone “feels” for a specific period. A person’s mood in a particular moment may fall anywhere on a spectrum that ranges from low (depression) to high (euphoria), and it will fluctuate over time. Changing moods represent a common human experience, and all related feelings and emotions should be considered valid. However, the intensity of the mood and the length of time a particular mood lasts are also factors to consider.

Mood and bipolar disorders are mental health conditions that primarily affect your emotional state and well-being. It is common for emotions to change in reaction to a stressor, but extreme or unprovoked emotional changes can be unsettling or cause impairment in function. Emotional disturbances that sway a person toward excessively elevated or low moods are commonly referred to as mood disorders.

Buckingham Psychiatry offers a full range of psychiatric services to help patients with mood or bipolar disorders improve their mental health and overall quality of life. Through a holistic and comprehensive approach, personalized care for mood and bipolar disorders is tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

What Causes Mood and Bipolar Disorders?

You may be wondering, “What triggers mood or bipolar disorders?” or “Who is most likely to develop mood disorders?” Another common question that patients ask is, “Are mood and bipolar disorders genetic?”

Mood and bipolar disorders can start at any age. Researchers believe that there may be a combination of biological factors, genetic factors, and environmental factors involved.

Mood and bipolar disorders can often be linked to traits that have been passed down to you, along with certain environmental factors and stressful life events, or even some prescription medications. Sometimes people who have mood disorders may also have neurological disorders – conditions of the brain and nervous system. It is also likely for mood and bipolar disorders to be caused by an imbalance in brain chemicals.

The exact causes of certain types of mood and bipolar disorders are not fully understood, but it is believed that people with bipolar disorder may have physical changes in their brains and there may be a genetic component as well. Bipolar disorder may occur more frequently in people who have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has this condition, or those who are going through periods of stress or have experienced traumatic events. Drug or alcohol misuse is another risk factor associated with bipolar disorder.

Dr. Jacob D. Buinewicz can help by providing answers to questions about mood and bipolar disorders, “manic depression,” and more, as well as offering diagnosis and treatment carefully designed to help bring more balance to his patients’ lives.

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What Are the Symptoms of Mood and Bipolar Disorders?

Each type of mood or bipolar disorder is characterized by its own unique symptoms and/or patterns of symptoms, but in most cases, patients with a mood disorder may experience symptoms that have an impact on their mood, sleep, eating behaviours, energy level, and thinking abilities. The main symptom of bipolar disorder is extreme changes in your mood.

Mood and Bipolar Disorder Basics: What Are Some Specific Types of Mood Disorders?

Mood disorders encompass two main categories: depressive disorders and bipolar disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), these disorders have a broader reach than many people may realize. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 20 percent of adults in the United States encounter a mood disorder at least once in their lifetime.

Bipolar disorder has been known by many names over the years. Once called “cycling mood disorder,” it evolved to be referred to as “manic depression” or “manic depressive illness.” Though it is known as “bipolar disorder” today, many people still say “manic depression.” You may also hear reference to a “mixed-state episode.”

Bipolar Disorder 1 +

This mood disorder, also known as manic depressive bipolar disorder, is characterized by a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, as well as abnormally and persistently increased goal-directed or impulsive activity. It is associated with significantly reduced sleep and impairment. There are often periods of depression that occur outside of these periods of elevated mood.

Bipolar Disorder 2 +

This mood disorder is associated with more subtle and shorter periods of abnormally elevated and expansive mood. It can result in a decreased need for sleep, increased productivity, distractibility, and impulsivity. There are often periods of depression that occur outside of these periods of elevated mood.

Persistent Depressive Disorder +

A mood disorder with the primary mood consisting of prolonged depressed mood for most days for at least two weeks is considered a major depressive disorder. This is associated with decreased ability to experience joy and other physical and psychological symptoms. There are periods of normal mood between episodes of depressed mood.

Major Depressive Disorder +

Longer in duration than a major depressive disorder, a persistent depressive disorder is characterized by a prolonged period of low or depressed mood that has been present for most days for at least two years. This mood disorder is commonly associated with impairment in sleep, appetite, concentration, and focus. It is difficult to find days when mood feels normal or elevated.
Dr. Buinewicz

Meet Dr. Buinewicz

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Jacob D. Buinewicz, MD is a board certified general psychiatrist. He graduated from Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

Trained in the combined use of psychotherapy and medication, he offers evidence based treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders. He has specific expertise in mood and bipolar disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. He also offers care for common sources of stress including life transitions, decreased productivity at work, relationship issues, and grief.

Dr. Buinewicz believes all treatment should begin with a patient-centered comprehensive and holistic evaluation. Patients are involved in creating a treatment plan that may include medications, therapy, or a combination of both. He believes that therapy is often a critical component of care as evidence shows that it provides benefit over medication alone. His therapeutic approach is tailored to the individual patient and contains elements of psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Contact Dr. Jacob D. Buinewicz, MD for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and personalized treatment plan at 484-466-5560.

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Mood Swings vs. Mood and Bipolar Disorders: How Do They Differ?

Are my mood swings normal? Why are my mood swings so bad? Do I have a mood or bipolar disorder? These may be questions that have been on your mind lately if you have been experiencing distress due to drastic changes in your emotional state. The difference between natural mood swings and bipolar disorder is that for the latter, the mood changes are more pronounced and persistent, and may have a significant impact on your relationships, career, and other aspects of your life.

Mood and Bipolar Disorders: Demystifying Manic Depression

A significant form of mood disorder, bipolar disorder—also often called manic depression—is marked by unpredictable and extreme changes in mood, energy levels, and activity. Two primary forms of this disorder have been identified: bipolar I and bipolar II, as mentioned previously.

The driving factors behind bipolar disorder are usually a combination of genetic aspects, chemical imbalances in the brain, and environmental factors such as intense stressful situations or trauma.
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What is Dr. Buinewicz’s Approach to Mood and Bipolar Disorders?

Diagnosis and treatment for mood and bipolar disorders is possible after a thorough evaluation that rules out other causes—including medical—that could be contributing to a patient’s symptoms.

The diagnosis for a mood or bipolar disorder itself is based on a thorough and holistic evaluation by Dr. Buinewicz. Treatment for mood and bipolar disorders can include therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, or a combination of all three. There are a variety of treatments for mood and bipolar disorders that can be implemented in the outpatient setting, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and sleep aids.

Grasping the intricacies of mood and bipolar disorders is a pillar of support for anyone impacted by them. Staying updated with current advancements, prioritizing practical coping strategies, and empathetic support can significantly improve the journey of those living with mood and bipolar disorders.
Residents and neighbors of Doylestown, PA, have access to a variety of resources to help them navigate the complexities of mood and bipolar disorders. Remember that a well-informed mind, a commitment to treatment, a robust support network, and a highly trained and supportive medical professional coordinating your care efforts can empower you to turn the tides for mood and bipolar disorders.

What Are the Most Effective Treatments for Bipolar Disorders?

Is bipolar disorder curable? This condition cannot be cured, but there are ways to make the symptoms more manageable. Living with manic depression/bipolar disorder comes with its unique set of challenges—not just for the person experiencing the disorder, but also for their family and close circle of friends. Problem-solving and coping strategies that help manage bipolar disorder on a daily basis play a pivotal role in mitigating its impact.

So, how is this common mood disorder – bipolar disorder – treated? Here are some practical and effective measures for bipolar disorders that can make a notable difference:

Lifestyle Changes +

The power of tweaks in everyday habits cannot be underestimated when it comes to handling a mood or bipolar disorder. Something as simple as adhering to a regular sleep cycle can go a long way. Sleep disruption can aggravate mood swings and make the symptoms worse. Therefore, ensuring sufficient sleep and maintaining a regular sleep routine is crucial. Regular physical activity is another cornerstone of mental well-being. Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and less anxious. It also improves sleep and contributes to overall well-being.

In addition to exercise, stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or meditation can play a critical role. These practices can provide a muchneeded pause in the day and significantly bolster mood stability and overall mental health.

Therapy Options +

A key weapon in fighting both mood and bipolar disorders comes in the form of therapy. While several forms of psychotherapy can help, cognitivebehavioral therapy (CBT) has shown a high degree of efficacy. CBT works by identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns that can lead to harmful feelings or actions. When used in conjunction with a properly administered medication plan, this approach substantially increases a person’s capacity to manage their bipolar symptoms.

Medication Management +

The importance of diligently adhering to a prescribed medication regimen cannot be stressed enough. This is a fundamental part of managing bipolar disorder. Fluctuations in medication can lead to a chemical imbalance, which can then trigger an episode. Thus, working closely with a healthcare provider and promptly communicating any side effects or changes in mood is vital. This two-way communication can ensure that the medication plan is tailored to the patient’s needs and works towards achieving optimal stability and symptom control.

Support Groups +

Being part of a community that understands the unique challenges of living with a mood or bipolar disorder or manic depression can provide immense emotional comfort and practical advice. These support groups could be inperson groups locally available, or even online communities. Here, individuals can find not just emotional support, but also practical advice based on real experiences. Mood and bipolar disorder groups also present a platform to share one’s own experiences, which can be cathartic and provide a sense of empowerment.

Beyond Mood and Bipolar Disorders: Care for Other Types of Mental Health Concerns

In addition to treatment for mood and bipolar disorders, Dr. Buinewicz also offers comprehensive care and support for a wide range of other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

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For more advice about mood and bipolar disorders in the Philadelphia area, contact Dr. Jacob D. Buinewicz at Buckingham Psychiatry. Located in Doylestown, Dr. Buinewicz provides care for patients from Philadelphia, Allentown, Bethlehem, Cherry Hill, Princeton, and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call 484.466.5560 to request a consultation.
CONTACT US
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