BIPOLAR TREATMENT AT PSYCHE CLINIC ON HARLEY STREET

Bipolar Affective Disorder is a long-term condition characterised by episodes of mood disturbance, of which at least one will have been an elevated mood called hypomania or mania. Some people have many episodes of depression and would have been considered to have recurrent (unipolar) depression, but as soon as a hypomanic or manic episode is experienced, the diagnosis changes to Bipolar Affective Disorder (previously called manic depression).

Some people only have episodes of hypomania or mania without episodes of depression, whilst others have episodes of both.

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With mania, a person may be so unwell that they have lost contact with reality and believe they have special powers or abilities or are famous (grandiosity). They may experience a faster speed of thinking, which at times is difficult to keep up with, and their speech is often very rapid. They tend to have a lot of energy and little need for sleep. Their mood may be very high but can sometimes manifest as manic irritability or anger.

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Hypomania is similar to mania but a much milder version where someone may have several days of continuous high energy, much less need for sleep, and faster thinking, which can be chaotic at times. As it is milder and can be experienced as enjoyable, it may go unnoticed and help may not be sought unless those around them encourage it.

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Episodes of depression, if occurring, may be of variable severity and sometimes follow a period of hypomania or mania.

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Sometimes episodes of hypomania or mania may be precipitated by other causes such as the use of steroid medications for physical health conditions. In this case, the episode is treated with an open mind as to whether this represents an underlying bipolar condition.

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The treatment of acute episodes of mood disorder in bipolar and the ongoing prevention of future episodes is by the use of medications called mood stabilisers.

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There are different categories and types of mood stabilisers, and our psychiatrist will discuss each option with you, weighing up the advantages and potential side effects of each to find a treatment that suits you. This approach not only treats the current episode but also helps reduce the risk of future episodes.

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With the right diagnosis, support, and ongoing care, people with bipolar disorder can stabilise, thrive, and lead rich, fulfilling lives.

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At Psyche Clinic, we provide expert bipolar treatment on Harley Street, offering comprehensive assessment, medication management, and psychological support led by senior Consultant Psychiatrists. Our team combines clinical expertise with compassionate, individualised care to help patients achieve lasting stability and improved quality of life.