Ross Counseling, PLLC | Specializing In Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a treatable illness apparent by severe changes in mood, thought, energy and attitude. People who have it go through different mood changes from very happy and active to very sad and hopeless and inactive, and then back again. The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t always apparent but it is believed that it hereditary and abnormal brain structure and function may also play a role. If not treated, bipolar disorder can lead to damaged relationships, poor job or school performance and even suicide.

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Symptoms Of Mania

Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence
Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior
Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue
Grandiose thoughts, inflated sense of self-importance
Racing speech, racing thoughts, flight of ideas
Impulsiveness, poor judgment, easily distracted
Reckless behavior
In the most severe cases, delusions and hallucinations

Symptoms Of Depression

Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells
Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety
Pessimism, indifference
Loss of energy, persistent lethargy
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness
Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness
Inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal
Unexplained aches and pains
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

"To be tested is good. The challenged life may be the best therapist."

-GAIL SHEEHY, AUTHOR

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Contact Us

Ross Counseling, PLLC
12202 Pacific Avenue S
Suite A
Tacoma, WA 98444

Phone: (253) 625-0662
Fax: (253) 276-0110
[email protected]

Helpful Links For Bipolar Disorder

Moodswings - One of the first online psychotherapies for bipolar disorder. It is based on a successful validated manualized intervention, the MAPS programme.
Pendulum.org - One of the oldest mailing lists on this topic also has a Web site which is a very comprehensive resource on bipolar disorder, offering online resources, symptom lists, book lists, medications, treatment options, etc.
VeryWell.com - An online community and extensive collection of resources which includes articles, newsletters, chat, forums, links and much more for those who struggle with this disorder.