Comprehensive Care for Bipolar Disorder with Expert Psychiatric Support
For residents of Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Simi Valley, Agoura Hills, and Camarillo areas in east Ventura County, Southern California, Dr. Jesalva, a highly skilled Bipolar Psychiatrist, offers specialized diagnosis and care for those experiencing bipolar disorder. With years of experience in diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder, Dr. Jesalva provides a tailored treatment plan to help manage the unique symptoms and challenges of the condition.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a complex mental health condition that causes significant mood swings between manic and depressive episodes. In the manic phase, patients feel energized, overly cheerful, and restless. During the depressive phase, they experience sadness, hopelessness, and extreme fatigue. In severe cases, impulsive behaviors during mania may require hospitalization to ensure patient safety.
Dr. Jesalva, an expert in treating bipolar disorder, offers comprehensive care to help patients stabilize their moods and live healthier lives.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of bipolar disorder exist on two extreme ends of the spectrum. Manic symptoms include feeling “jumpy” or “wired,” rapid speech, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. During this phase, risky behaviors like overspending or reckless actions can occur. On the opposite end, the depressive phase brings feelings of sadness, fatigue, and hopelessness. Patients may struggle with sleep issues and experience thoughts of suicide. Sometimes, both manic and depressive symptoms can occur simultaneously, complicating the condition.
As a Bipolar Psychiatrist, Dr. Jesalva uses a combination of therapy and medication to manage these intense mood swings and reduce the risk of severe episodes.
Are There Any Risk Factors?
Bipolar disorder often runs in families, and individuals with a parent or sibling affected by the condition are at higher risk of developing it. However, even in identical twins, one may develop the disorder while the other does not. Studies have shown that the brains of people with bipolar disorder differ from those without the condition. Additionally, bipolar disorder frequently coexists with other health problems such as thyroid conditions, ADHD, and substance abuse.
Dr. Jesalva works to address these interconnected issues within the broader treatment plan, ensuring comprehensive mental health care.
How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Treatment for bipolar disorder typically starts with medications to stabilize mood. However, long-term management is crucial, as patients often feel better and may be tempted to stop their medications, which can lead to relapse. Psychotherapy plays an essential role in helping patients cope with the emotional and behavioral aspects of bipolar disorder. Family counseling is also beneficial, providing education and support to both patients and their families.
Dr. Jesalva provides individualized care as a Bipolar Psychiatrist, integrating medication, talk therapy, and ongoing support to create a comprehensive treatment plan. For those seeking greater flexibility, online mental health services are available to ensure continuity of care, no matter the circumstance.