Bipolar Disorder

Call us 24/7, click (949)791-7127 Bipolar Disorder is characterized by one or more Manic or Mixed Episodes , sometimes accompanied by Major Depressive Episodes . A Manic Episode is defined by a distinct period during which there are abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive mood, and/or irritable or angry mood. The mood disturbance may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as rapid speech, racing thoughts, mood swings, inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, flight of ideas, distractibility, increased involvement in goal-directed activities with a high potential for negative consequences. The elevated mod of a Manic Episode may be described as euphoric, unusually good, cheerful, or high. The expansive quality of the mood is characterized by enthusiasm for sexual, interpersonal, or occupational interactions. During a manic phase, people may engage in pleasurable experiences which have a high potential for painful consequences (e.g., texing, looking at, or holding your phone while driving, having sex with multiple partners without condoms, going on shopping sprees, having extramarital sex).

A Hypomanic Episode is similar to a Manic Episode, but not as severe. The change in functioning for some individuals may take the form of a marked increase in efficiency, accomplishments, or creativity. The person's speech when in a Hypomanic Episode is often somewhat louder and more rapid than usual. It may be full of jokes, puns, plays on words, or irrelevancies. There may be impulsive activity such as shopping sprees, reckless driving, foolish business investments.

Dr. Nikolaidis is a leading psychologist in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder in Orange County . To contact Dr. Nikolaidis at his Newport Beach, Orange County office , call, click or text (949)791-7127.