Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Spokane, WA
Bipolar disorder treatment Spokane - Comprehensive care and medication management provided by a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Spokane, Washington. At Persona Mental Health, we offer evidence-based care for bipolar disorder and mood instability, helping you achieve mood stability, improved functioning, and long-term wellness.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by alternating periods of extreme mood elevation (mania or hypomania) and deep depression. It affects approximately 2.8% of adults in the United States each year, and its onset most often occurs during late adolescence or early adulthood. Bipolar disorder is not simply mood swings—it involves prolonged and disruptive episodes that impact thinking, energy, sleep, behavior, and daily life.
Types of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I Disorder: Involves at least one episode of mania (extreme elevation or irritability) that may be severe enough to require hospitalization, sometimes with episodes of major depression.
Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by at least one episode of hypomania (a less severe form of mania) and one or more episodes of major depression; mania never reaches full intensity.
Cyclothymic Disorder: Less severe, chronic fluctuations between mild hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least 2 years (1 year in children/teens).
Other Specified Bipolar Disorders: Symptoms that don’t fit the above patterns, often due to medication, medical conditions, or unique factors.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Mania/Hypomania:
Euphoria or unusually irritable mood
Increased energy or activity
Decreased need for sleep
Rapid speech, racing thoughts
Impulsivity: risky behavior, excitement about new plans
Grandiosity: inflated self-esteem or sense of power
Distractibility, poor focus
Excessive spending, risky sexual behavior
Depression:
Persistent sadness, hopelessness, emptiness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Fatigue or loss of energy
Sleep changes (insomnia or sleeping too much)
Appetite changes, weight loss/gain
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt
Trouble concentrating, indecisiveness
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Medication Management for Bipolar Disorder
Medication is the foundation of bipolar disorder treatment. The goal is mood stabilization, prevention of recurrent episodes, and reduction of symptoms:
Mood Stabilizers
Lithium: Gold standard with strong evidence for reducing mania and depression, and preventing suicide in bipolar disorder. Requires regular blood level monitoring.
Valproate (Depakote): Effective for manic episodes; helpful for rapid cycling bipolar disorder.
Lamotrigine (Lamictal): Particularly helpful at preventing bipolar depression, less effective for mania. Requires slow titration.
Carbamazepine (Tegretol): Sometimes used for mania, especially if other agents are ineffective.
Antipsychotic Medications
Atypical antipsychotics are frequently used for mania, mixed episodes, and acute stabilization (aripiprazole, quetiapine, lurasidone, olanzapine, risperidone). Some are FDA-approved for bipolar depression (quetiapine, lurasidone, cariprazine).
Antidepressants
Used cautiously, and only alongside mood stabilizers, to avoid triggering mania. May be considered for chronic depressive symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bipolar Disorder Treatment
How long will I need to take medication?
Can bipolar disorder be cured?
What if the first mood stabilizer doesn’t work?
Does medication prevent all episodes?
Can I receive bipolar disorder care during pregnancy or postpartum?
About Our Bipolar Disorder Treatment Services
Michael Colver, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Michael has extensive experience treating bipolar disorder in adults and teens throughout Spokane and Eastern Washington. With specialized expertise in medication management, relapse prevention, and perinatal mental health, Michael helps patients and families navigate the ups and downs of bipolar disorder with confidence and hope.
Specialized Training and Expertise:
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC)
Perinatal Mental Health Certificate (PMH-C)
Advanced expertise in mood disorder pharmacology
Treatment Philosophy:
Bipolar disorder is a medical condition—never a personal failing. With the right treatment, support, and lifestyle adjustments, stable mood and fulfilling life are absolutely possible.
Serving Spokane & Surroundings
Proudly serving Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Liberty Lake, Medical Lake, and surrounding communities.
WHY CHOOSE US
Committed to Your Mental Well-Being
At Persona Mental Health, we believe in providing compassionate, individualized care that respects your unique journey. Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard and understood.
WHY CHOOSE US
Committed to Your Mental Well-Being
At Persona Mental Health, we believe in providing compassionate, individualized care that respects your unique journey. Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard and understood.