#bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri

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What is Bipolar Disorder And How Do You Treat It?

Bipolar disorder is known as manic depression in which a person has extreme emotional lows and highs. Extreme mood swings affect the quality of life, influencing the behavior, activities, and thinking of a person. Ongoing treatment and expert advice help manage this chronic mood disorder. Visit the top doctor for bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri.

Medical attention is a must. Shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels can interfere with how you perform daily tasks, maintain relationships, and live a stable life.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder – What is It?

This mood disorder is marked by cycles of intense emotional states:

Mania or Hypomania. Mania is a more severe kind of elevated mood (hypomania), leading to increased energy levels. During a manic episode, a person may feel euphoric, more active, easy to distract, excessively energetic, or unusually irritable. They are more likely to engage in impulsive behaviors, including excessive spending, risky sexual behavior, reckless driving, etc. Here, hypomania is a less severe kind of mania.

Depression. The depressive episodes in bipolar disorder cause feelings of intense sadness, loss of energy, hopelessness, restlessness, loss of interest, and thinking of suicide. Sleeping too much or too little, appetite changes, etc., are common in major depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder is not a single condition and here are the types:

Bipolar I Disorder. In this case, one has at least one manic episode, often followed by depressive episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder. It means a person has at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, but no manic episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder. It is a basically milder form of bipolar disorder in which a person has periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years.

Causes and risk factors for bipolar disorder

The exact cause of the bipolar disorder is unknown, but there are factors suspected, including:

Genetics or a family history of bipolar disorder.

Abnormalities in brain structure or neurotransmitter function may be a risk here.

Stressful life events, trauma, or significant life changes can cause or trigger the symptoms of this mood disorder.

Recreational drug and alcohol abuse can put one at risk of bipolar disorder.

Medical Care Options for Bipolar Disorder

Medications are more often the first-line treatment for manic depression. Psychiatrists may prescribe:

Mood Stabilizers

Antipsychotics

Antidepressants

Antidepressant-antipsychotic combination

See the top psychiatrist for bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri.

Psychotherapy to treat and manage bipolar disorder:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people with bipolar disorder identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors and helps them live a quality life.

Psychoeducation means educating people and their families about bipolar disorder (manic depression) to improve treatment outcomes and help manage the condition lifelong.

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) focuses on stabilizing daily routines, from sleeping and eating patterns to regulating mood.

Lifestyle changes are a crucial part here to improving mood and overall health, including:

Regular Exercise

Healthy Diet

Sleep Hygiene

Stress Management

While bipolar disorder is a long-term mood condition, many people with this mood disorder live successful and fulfilling lives with expert help and advice. Regular checkups, a balanced diet, taking medicines and therapies as advised, stress management, etc., are vital to bipolar disorder management. Consult Dr. Arunava Datta for effective bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri.

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How To Recognize The Different Types Of Bipolar Disorder

Certain changes in your mood can be experienced by everyone. However, feeling extreme highs and lows for a long amount of time with drastic mood swings can be an indication of an underlying mood disorder. Bipolar disorder or manic disorder is one of the most common mood problems with severe manic and depressive episodes. If this condition is not diagnosed at the right time then you may also start experiencing psychotic symptoms. To manage these symptoms, it is vital to contact a psychiatrist and get bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri.

To get personalized treatment, it is important to know the accurate type of bipolar disorder you’re suffering from. The changes in mood leading to severe distress and overwhelming feeling are the common symptoms of bipolar disorder but there can be other factors as well which will help you and the healthcare professional learn about the type of bipolar disorder. Remember that this mood disorder can affect anyone but people between 16 and 24 years old are more prone to develop it. 

Types Of Bipolar Disorder And Ways To Recognize Them 

The best way to determine the type of bipolar disorder is by analyzing the experienced symptoms. There are specific symptoms of each of the bipolar disorder types that are unique and can severely impact your overall life quality. 

1. Bipolar 1 Disorder 

People suffering from bipolar 1 disorder experienced at least 1 manic episode in their lifetime. This manic episode can lead to high energy and irritated and elevated mood associated with an abnormal behavioural pattern. You must note that most people suffering from bipolar 1 also suffer from depression which causes a cyclic pattern between depression and mania. 

Main Symptoms: 

Excessive spending

Changing suddenly from one topic to the other 

Inflated self-image 

Substance abuse history 

Increased energy with decreased need to sleep and hyperactivity 

Loud and rapid speech 

Having unrealistic plans 

In some severe cases, people with this disorder can lose connection to reality and become delusional. The mentioned symptoms of bipolar may last from a few days to weeks. 

2. Bipolar II Disorder 

Another type of bipolar disorder that needs to be treated by the best doctor for bipolar disorder in Siliguri is bipolar II disorder. This disorder is also similar to bipolar 1 disorder but in bipolar II, the sudden ups of your mood never reaches a manic episode. In most cases, the hypomanic episodes are less intense which can often include depression symptoms as well. 

Main Symptoms: 

Exaggerated self-confidence 

Jumping from one idea to another 

Elevated energy with less sleep and hyperactivity 

Pressured, loud, and rapid speech 

Remember that a person suffering from a hypomania episode of bipolar II disorder then can be quite pleasant around people. They can have extremely positive moods and many also engage in risky or impulsive activities out of over-excitement. 

3. Mixed Bipolar State 

Bipolar disorder with mixed features indicates the presence of low and high symptoms at the same time. This single episode with both depression and manic symptoms can be in a rapid sequence and lead to severe distress. Remember that this type of bipolar disorder is more common among people who have acquired the condition at a younger age. Additionally, people with a family history of this disorder also have a risk of developing a mixed bipolar state. 

Main Symptoms: 

Feelings of worthlessness and guilt 

Over activity 

Irritability

High energy

Sadness

Lack of interest in daily life activities 

Racing speech and thoughts 

If your loved ones are suffering from a mixed bipolar state then you will see them being happy and then suddenly collapsing to despair and a bad mood. After a short while, they can also be in an ecstatic state. 

4. Cyclothymia 

Cyclothymia or cyclothymic disorder is another significant type of bipolar mood disorder that causes emotional lows and ups which are not as prominent as the mood swings in bipolar I or II disorder. Despite being less critical than other types, it is still essential to contact the doctor and get bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri. 

Main Symptoms: 

Inflated self-esteem 

Excessive happiness 

Racing thoughts 

Concentration problems 

Agitated or irritated behaviour 

Decreased sleep 

Fatigue 

Loss of interest 

The mentioned symptoms of elevated and depressed can be quite mild and moderate which can sometimes be difficult to identify. In most cases, people with Cyclothymia can function well in their daily lives but have unpredictable moods.  

5. Unspecified Bipolar 

Bipolar disorder is a severe psychological condition with various symptoms. There can be certain cases when people may experience depressed or elevated mood but don’t meet the fixed criterion of suffering from bipolar I or other types of bipolar disorder. This type of bipolar disorder is called unspecified bipolar which also has the tendency to socially, personally, or professionally hamper your life. 

Main Symptoms: 

Wired or jumpy behaviour 

Elated or high mood 

Excessive appetite 

Decreased sleep 

Extremely active 

Racing thoughts 

Difficulty concentrating 

Restlessness and hopelessness 

The impairment and stress associated with this unspecified bipolar disorder need to be handled properly and at the right time to avoid serious complications. In some cases, delay in treatment can lead to quite severe mania and depressive symptoms. 

6. Bipolar Disorder with Seasonal Patterns 

Another significant type of bipolar disorder is bipolar disorder with seasonal patterns. The symptoms and severity of bipolar disorder may change based on various factors which also include weather. Herein, you must know that the manic and depression periods of the disorder can severely be impacted by seasonal changes. 

Main Symptoms: 

Depressed mood due to low sunlight 

Problems in sleep/wake cycles 

Disrupted circadian rhythms 

Reckless behaviour 

High energy

Distractibility

Psychosis 

Grandiosity

Starting from temperature drops to sunlight, there can be several seasonal changes causing bipolar disorder with seasonal patterns. Remember that during winter, the chances of hospitalization due to severe depression can also increase. You must also note that this type of bipolar disorder due to seasonal changes is more common among women. 

7. Rapid Cycling Bipolar 

Rapid cycling bipolar disorder can cause distinct and infrequent episodes of bipolar disorder. In this type of disorder, the person can experience four or more episodes of depression and mania in just a single year. Herein, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can develop at any time which can come and go throughout the year. 

Main Symptoms: 

Racing thoughts 

Increased mental energy 

Excessive self-confidence 

Lack of energy

Persistent sadness 

Crying spells 

Irritability

Substance abuse habits 

People suffering from rapid cycling bipolar disorder often experience more than 5 of the mentioned symptoms which may include loss of interest, depression, and mood swings. 

After the doctor has identified the type of the disorder, an individualized bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri can be curated. The treatment may include medications or interpersonal and cognitive behavioural therapy to maintain your mood and alleviate the concerning thought patterns. 

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8 Signs You Might Have Bipolar Disorder

Apart from impairing your emotional and psychological well-being, mental health illnesses can lead to familial issues and a general decline in quality of life. Bipolar disorder is a severe mental illness that can cause extreme highs and lows in mood as well as a general sense of hopelessness and sadness. You must have the best bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri from a reputable psychiatrist to manage the symptoms.  

The majority of the time, genetics or biological variations may lead to individual variations in symptoms for this mental illness. If your parents, siblings, or other close relatives also suffer from bipolar disorder, your chances of developing the illness's symptoms increase. When bipolar disorder is not properly treated in a timely manner, it can lead to suicidal thoughts and poor performance at work or school. The doctor will do a thorough mental evaluation to determine the exact type of bipolar disorder before recommending a customized course of treatment for a full recovery.

Top Signs Indicating That You Suffer From Bipolar Disorder 

1. Psychosis 

If the manic and depressed phases of bipolar disorder are not appropriately managed, psychosis may potentially develop. Delusions, hallucinations, and confused thinking all of a sudden are the clear indicators of psychosis. Irrational ideas, difficulties talking, and decreased social contact are some of the early signs of bipolar disorder psychosis. 

If you are deluded, you might also have steadfast beliefs about things that aren't true. Here, you should never put off receiving treatment for psychosis because it can also be brought on by several other illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, malaria, brain tumors, and neurological disorders. You should note that the psychotic episodes associated with bipolar disorder can be a blend of hallucinations and delusions. 

2. Sleeping disturbances 

While there are many factors that might contribute to sleep problems, bipolar disorder can have a significant impact on your ability to sleep. Bipolar disorder and sleep difficulties include hypersomnia, insomnia, co-occurring sleep apnea, and irregularities in rapid eye movement sleep. You may also have irregular sleep-wake cycles if your mental health condition is not properly handled.

Furthermore, certain bipolar patients may also experience delayed sleep phase syndrome, a condition primarily brought on by the disorder's symptoms of insomnia and daytime sleepiness. To recover from sleeping disturbances, you must contact the best psychiatrist in Siliguri. Along with sleeping pills, the doctor might also recommend therapeutic interventions to manage the condition. Note that ignoring the sleeping issues can contribute to making bipolar symptoms worsen. 

3. Mania and hypomania symptoms 

The primary signs of bipolar disorder are periods of mania or hypomania. The main symptoms of the manic phase include nervousness, excessive happiness, and rapid speech. This is where you might want to abruptly change the subject because your mind is racing. You cannot sleep properly during these periods because you'll be restless and impulsive all the time. 

Sometimes, persons who are hypomanic also experience a loss of appetite, which may lead them to engage in dangerous behaviours. If you don't manage your manic episodes in a timely manner, you can wind up spending a lot of money on shopping or losing all of your life savings on gambling. Moreover, you experience severe disruptions in performing daily activities due to the mania and hypomania symptoms. 

4. Hallucination 

Bipolar disorder symptoms and mood swings can sometimes get severe, causing the patient to lose their sense of reality. Children with this mental illness may frequently think erratically and hold unrealistic beliefs due to this symptom. In most cases, hallucinations happen when they enter the psychosis stage of bipolar disorder. It may be challenging for the patient experiencing these kinds of delusions or hallucinations to learn about the world around them. 

Herein, one can also make up a fantasy world with themselves and maintain their distance from friends and relatives. Remember that hallucination episodes can impair all your senses including smell, sight, sound, taste, and touch. The chemical reactions in the brain need to be controlled through therapies by availing of the best bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri. 

5. Behavioural issues 

Extreme mood swings caused due to bipolar disorder may also contribute to the emergence of behavioural issues. Both at home and workplace, the patient can exhibit disturbed behavioural patterns. You must note that this type of behavioural problem is more common among children suffering from bipolar disorder. This frequently prevents them from interacting with other kids, which worsens their mental health in general. 

Getting bipolar mood disorder treatment at the right time is crucial if you want to support your child in overcoming these problems and leading a regular life with more productivity. If the concerning behaviours are left untreated then it can impact daily activities. Regular medication, therapy sessions, and recreation are essential to cope with this symptom. 

6. Substance use 

Bipolar disorder patients frequently tend to substance abuse. Alcohol or illegal drugs may become your go-to means of diversion from the upsetting bipolar disorder symptoms. If you are unable to manage your strong desire for addictive substances, you should see a reputable psychiatrist right away. 

Always keep in mind that managing a substance use disorder can make treating bipolar disorder more challenging. Furthermore, abusing drugs or alcohol regularly to escape the harsh realities of life might lower your quality of life and increase your risk of developing severe depressive and manic symptoms. A dual diagnosis for both bipolar and substance abuse disorder can work wonders in improving your overall psychological condition. 

7. Mood swings 

One of the primary symptoms of bipolar disorder that can suggest you’re suffering from bipolar is low mood. Herein, you may exhibit several symptoms during these moments of low mood, such as disinterest, sleeping more than normal, feeling depressed without apparent cause, and displaying rage. You may also find it challenging to establish or preserve relationships with other individuals as a result of these symptoms. 

Additionally, the mood swings caused due to bipolar may also involve high mood episodes. Patients experiencing spells of elevated mood can also experience a variety of symptoms, including being easily agitated, having trouble establishing consistent sleep schedules, and exhibiting excessive happiness without any obvious cause. Moments of elevated mood can also make it difficult for the patients to focus on basic tasks, which may result in poor performance.  

8. Abnormal behaviour 

When a patient behaves aggressively, we frequently assume that he has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which can be associated with bipolar disorder. You should be aware, though, that bipolar disorder may also manifest itself as this kind of nature. This sign is more prevalent among children suffering from mental health issues.

The child suffering from aggressive behaviour due to bipolar may engage in verbal abuse, tantrums, defiance, and bullying as a result of this problem. Your child is always changing, and you need to be aware of this so that you can provide the necessary support if any abnormalities are discovered.

Do not delay seeing a doctor to receive the best bipolar mood disorder treatment in Siliguri if you experience any of these symptoms. To help you feel better, the doctor may prescribe mood stabilizers, psychoeducation, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and psychotherapy therapies. Furthermore, the doctor can also effectively manage childhood bipolar disorder with a variety of family-focused interventions and counseling. 

[drtwishampatinaskar]

5 Common Conditions Treated By Neuropsychiatrists

Neuropsychiatric disorder is a well-known term that is used to describe various illnesses involving psychiatry and neurology. Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, injury, or infections can lead to the development of these disorders. If you experience the early signs of this disorder then the first step you must take is to book a consultation with an experienced neuropsychiatrist in Siliguri.

Neuropsychiatrists are specialized medical professionals who are trained in diagnosing and treating neuropsychiatric health issues. These doctors are the best option if you’re suffering from any issues concerning your mood, personality, behaviour, and thought process. Starting from medications and counseling to therapy sessions, neuropsychiatrists can curate a perfect intervention for you based on your unique health needs. 

Common Health Conditions Managed By A Neuropsychiatrist 

1. Migraine Headaches 

A migraine headache is a medical condition that arises from the nervous system's hypersensitivity or dysfunction. Most migraine attacks are caused by the trigeminal nerve, which is found in the muscles, tendons, teeth, and skin of the face. You can feel a throbbing or pulsing sensation in your head as a result of this aberrant brain activity. 

Warning signs of a migraine headache: Mood swings, blurred vision, trouble speaking, sensitivity to light, nausea, throbbing pain, and confusion. 

A migraine attack can also be brought on by a few other things, like physical strain, stress, and disturbed sleep. These headaches can be treated with painkillers and medications for depression, high blood pressure, or seizures. 

2. Seizures 

Seizures are another disorder that is primarily caused by abrupt electrical activity in the brain that can be effectively treated by a neuropsychiatrist. Sudden changes in behaviour, emotions, and movement may result from this uncontrollable activity, and you might even feel partially unconscious. In case you have more than two seizures in a span of two days, your doctor will diagnose you with epilepsy. 

Warning signs: Breathing problems, jerking movements, loss of consciousness, appearing confused, stiffening of body, and staring. 

A head injury or stroke can also cause sudden seizures, which usually last only a few seconds but are deemed a medical emergency if they persist for longer than five minutes. Deep brain, vagus nerve, and responsive neurostimulation electrical stimulation, along with medication and surgery are some of the treatments the doctor can adopt to control seizures. 

3. Cognitive Deficit Disorders

Cognitive deficit disorders are another category of mental health issues when you must consider booking an appointment with the best psychiatrist in Siliguri who has a specialization in neuropsychiatry. Amnesia, motor skill deficits, dementia, substance-induced cognitive impairment, and developmental abnormalities are examples of common neurocognitive disorders. You can experience a range of emotional and physical symptoms due to these conditions. 

Warning signs: Paralysis, loss of consciousness, changes in sleep patterns, personality and behavioural changes, severe headache, and imbalance. 

The doctor may prescribe a variety of drugs to treat the symptoms and slow the disorder's progression. A successful recovery from these illnesses depends on early identification. Various relaxation therapies, cognitive training, physical activity, and mind exercises can also improve your cognitive health and alleviate the symptoms of these disorders.

4. Uncontrolled Anger 

All of us occasionally struggle with rage, but when anger spirals out of control, it's deemed to be a neuropsychiatric disorder. Uncontrolled anger, which can result from several underlying illnesses such as depression, alcohol abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grieving, and bipolar disorder, is very detrimental to your mental and physical health. 

Warning signs indicating an anger outburst: Irritability, racing thoughts, rage, pounding heartbeat, shaking, temper tantrums, property damage, angry speeches, and heated arguments. 

Anger can also take several forms because it can be passive, outward, or inward-directed. You can discover different methods of managing your anger difficulties with the assistance of a neuropsychiatrist. Behavioral therapy, deep breathing exercises, anger management classes, and medication for underlying mental health conditions are some of the popular approaches.

5. Depression 

One of the most prevalent mood disorders is depression, which can cause several unsettling symptoms that can be effectively managed by a neuropsychiatrist. This kind of neuropsychiatric illness can have a serious effect on children, adults, youth, and senior citizens. Depression is typically brought on by hormone imbalances, physiologic variations, and alterations in brain chemistry. Depressive episodes can also arise as a result of alcohol addiction or specific traumatic experiences. 

Warnings signs to notice during a depression episode: Loss of appetite, feelings of hopelessness, self-loathing, anger, loss of interest, unexplained aches, concentration issues, suicidal tendencies, and reckless behaviour. 

While contacting a doctor for treatment, you will be advised to undergo a thorough psychiatric evaluation. Herein, based on the results the doctor may recommend brain stimulation techniques, psychotherapy, or antidepressants. 

Contacting a neuropsychiatrist in Siliguri will enable you to get the best course of action for your neuropsychiatric conditions. Along with the above-mentioned disorders, these doctors can also treat eating disorders, addiction, attention deficit disorders, palsies, and anxiety with accuracy and advanced treatment approaches. 

[drtwishampatinaskar]

5 Tips For Creating A Bipolar-Friendly Environment At Home - Advice From A Psychiatrist

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can lead to sudden emotional highs and lows. You can experience episodes of extreme mood swings several times a year due to bipolar disorder. Some of the noticeable signs of this condition are increased agitation, distractibility, fatigue, depression, suicidal attempts, and loss of interest. You need effective bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri from a reputed doctor to manage the distressing symptoms of this condition. 

Medications and cognitive-behavioural therapies can be considered the main treatment options for bipolar. In addition to this treatment, self-care and a bipolar-friendly home environment are also essential to control the triggers associated with bipolar disorder episodes. There are various coping strategies that can help you manage mental problems and improve your overall quality of life. 

Healthy Tips To Create A Bipolar-Friendly Home Environment 

1. Fix A Daily Routine 

Setting a fixed routine can offer you a sense of stability that can help you reduce the symptoms of bipolar disorder. While you’re staying at home try to focus on the developed routine regarding food habits, sleeping time, and physical activity. 

Herein, you can exercise regularly and indulge in a healthy diet to avoid bipolar triggers. You can also consider making a schedule so that you can do daily activities at home accordingly. Apart from the fixed schedule, don’t forget to make time for yourself so that you can relax your mind and manage stress. 

2. Minimize Distractions 

One of the most effective tips that can help you make the home bipolar-friendly is to minimize distractions and outside noises. Heightened sound sensitivity is a common symptom experienced by most bipolar disorder patients. 

Herein, if you’re continuously exposed to noises then it can deteriorate your mood episodes while increasing the frequency of the episodes. This is why it is important to reduce distractions at home which can be done by installing a white noise machine at your home. You can also use sleep buds or noise-cancelling earphones during the mood episodes.  

3. Start Communicating With Family Members 

While contacting the best psychiatrist in Siliguri, the doctor may advise you to maintain proper communication with your family members and friends. Herein, you can also consider educating your near ones about the disorders and their triggers so that they can support you during the mood episodes. 

You must know that relying on others and sharing your feelings can help you experience a sense of safety. Having a positive support system holds utmost importance and helps you overcome the mental health crisis. 

4. Maintain A Good Sleep Environment 

You need to have more focus on your sleeping area while you’re creating a bipolar-friendly home environment. It is pivotal to note that optimal and undisturbed sleep is highly important to ensure mental well-being. 

You must reduce your screening timing before going to bed and maintain a fixed sleeping routine to enjoy a sound sleep. Herein, at least 7 hours of sleep is required for every individual and sleeping less or more than this can interfere with your mood while leading you towards bipolar disorder episodes. 

5. Allow Natural Light

If you’re suffering from bipolar disorder then you can improve your symptoms and feel a sense of freedom if you’re exposed to an open environment. You can enjoy an open environment at home by allowing natural light to enter your room. 

It is always important to remember that staying in darkness for a long time can depress you and worsen your mental health symptoms. Open the windows, expose them to sunlight, and enjoy some quality time outdoors to avoid the constant claustrophobic feeling associated with the mental health disorder. 

While undergoing bipolar disorder treatment in Siliguri, you can start taking small steps and reward yourself regarding small accomplishments to improve your physical and mental condition. Start organizing the cluttered areas, indulge in daily maintenance, and plan everything to make your home environment not only bipolar-friendly but also positive and hygienic.