Bipolar disorder is a common disorder characterized by fluctuations in mood ranging from manic or hypomanic highs to severe depressions. Left undiagnosed or misdiagnosed this disorder may create a level of dysfunction in one’s life that ultimately decreases overall productivity and interfere with meaningful interpersonal relationships. Read more about bipolar disorder.
The Bipolar Disorder Program at the University of Colorado Depression Center involves a collaborative team approach to assessment and diagnosis, as well as to ongoing individual and family interventions geared towards stabilization, maintenance of gains made during treatment, and elicitation of supports. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, second opinions for primary care, and evidenced-based treatment including medications, individual, family and group psychotherapy.
Medications have been determined a core aspect of the treatment of bipolar disorder and often more than one type of medication is optimal for symptom reduction. Expert consultation is necessary to monitor side effects and achieve the best possible outcome. Psychoeducation and evidenced-based psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are found to be effective in helping individuals and families better understand the diagnosis of bipolar disorder and how patterns in thinking and behavior may be playing a role in maintaining symptoms as opposed to diminishing them. Other treatments such as Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) address other vital components in treating bipolar disorder. These include individual and family stressors, communication styles and techniques, problem-solving skills, and social rhythm disturbances such as sleep and stimulus control.