Our therapists offer bipolar disorder therapy in Conway, AR

Bipolar Disorder Therapy in Conway, AR—Therapists and Counselors

Hearing the words, “Bipolar Disorder” can feel scary, and so is the behavior that this mental illness can induce. About six million Americans have been diagnosed with some form of Bipolar Disorder, and more and more are reaching out for the help they need. Effective treatments are available.

Thriveworks Conway offers therapy for Bipolar Disorder because our staff knows that this illness can be fought, and we have fought with many clients. We know what it takes to give our clients the social, psychological, emotional, and physical guidance they need to treat their Bipolar diagnosis.

Bipolar Disorder: Mania and Depression

In movies and TV shows, mania is usually depicted at being high on happiness and energy. While there is a kernel of truth in this image, the reality is that mania is not a pleasant experience. It poses a risk to an individual’s well-being. Furthermore, mania can be either felt as elation or as irritation/anger. The DSM-5 gives more details:

1. Mania is a frenetic mood that be either happy or irritated. It lasts for a minimum of one week.
2. When the mood is happy, three of the following should be experienced. If the mood is angered, then four should be experienced:
   • Racing emotions and thoughts.
   • Little sleep but high energy.
   • Struggles with focusing one’s attention.
   • Talkativeness.
   • Extreme planning toward a goal.
   • An inaccurate and over-extended self-image.
   • Taking risks and potentially harming oneself or others with irresponsible choices.
3. These behaviors cannot be the result of a medication or drug.
4. These behaviors must have one of the following result to be considered mania:
   • Psychosis.
   • Hospitalization.
   • Inhibited daily functioning.

The flip side of mania is depression. Bipolar Disorders swing people between the two, and both must be present in order for Bipolar to be diagnosed. The DSM-5 gives the following description for the depression phase: A weepy, sad, or numb state of mind that is experienced for the majority of the day for a continuous two-week period. In addition, individuals will feel severe apathy with a minimum of three of these symptoms:

1. Changes in psychomotor skills (either an increase such as rapid finger tapping or a decrease such as slowed speech).
2. Captivated thoughts of suicide or death.
3. Lagging endurance and energy.
4. Disturbed sleeping patterns—either hypersomnia or insomnia.
5. Changes in appetite or weight.
6. Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and/or shame.
7. The inability to focus or make decisions.

Scheduling Bipolar Disorder Therapy at Thriveworks Conway

If you are ready to meet with a therapist about your Bipolar diagnosis or if you suspect you may have a form of Bipolar, then know that Thriveworks Conway has appointments available. Our staff has extensive training and experience with treating Bipolar in its various forms. We also work with most insurance companies. In addition, we offer evening and weekend sessions, same-week appointments, and additional benefits to our clients. Our desire is that scheduling therapy is as easy as possible so that you can focus on healing.

Let’s work together. Contact Thriveworks Conway today.