Bipolar Disorders / DMDD

Bipolar disorders, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood and energy levels. People with bipolar disorder often experience periods of manic behavior and euphoric moods, followed by periods of depression. Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life if not properly managed. It is important to seek medical help if you feel like you are experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder

Symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary in type and severity.

During a manic phase, symptoms may include:

• Grandiose thinking
• Racing thoughts and agitation
• Decreased need for sleep
• Excessive talkativeness or impulsiveness
• Impulsive behaviors such as spending sprees or excessive gambling
• Elevated moods or irritability
• Increased energy levels

During a depressive phase, symptoms may include:

• Feelings of hopelessness and despair
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Difficulty sleeping or staying awake during the day
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Bipolar disorder is generally divided into two types: Bipolar I and Bipolar II.

Bipolar I disorder is characterized by manic episodes that last for at least one week and may include extreme shifts in mood and energy levels. Symptoms of this type of disorder can include periods of grandiosity, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, irritability, decreased need for sleep, and increased talkativeness.

Bipolar II disorder is generally characterized by both manic and depressive episodes. These episodes are less severe than those associated with Bipolar I disorder but can still cause significant distress and impairment. Symptoms of this type of disorder can include periods of hypomania (elevated moods) as well as depression.

Conventional treatments for bipolar disorder typically involve medications and psychotherapy.

Medications used to treat bipolar disorder may include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressant medications, and anti-anxiety medications. These medications can help to stabilize the extreme shifts in mood that are associated with bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy is also commonly used as part of treatment for bipolar disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation can be beneficial in helping individuals manage their symptoms. Family and couples therapy can also be helpful in improving communication and providing support for those affected by bipolar disorder.

Orthomolecular understanding of bipolar disorder views the condition as a disorder that may have different underlying biochemical causes. In our research we have discovered 4 distinct phenotypes of bipolar disorder and the neurotransmitters they effect:

• Undermethylation– serotonin and dopamine
• Overmethylation– serotonin and dopamine
• Copper/ Zinc Imbalance– norepinephrine and dopamine
• Severe Oxidative Stress– detrimental effect NMDA receptor (N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor)

Pyrrole disorder typically represents the misdiagnosis of rapid cycling bipolar disorder, whereas typical Bipolar diagnoses most often has overmethylation as the critical underlying cause. Under this understanding, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, SAMe, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), zinc, magnesium, B vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics may be recommended to help restore balance and promote wellness.In addition, food can lead to mood swings that can make it seem as though one is bipolar in nature. For example, high carb foods can lead to emotional highs and then low crashes. If a patient lives on this kind of diet daily, these mood fluctuations can often confuse the true nature of a given diagnosis.

Mensah Medical’s physicians, Albert Mensah, MD and Judith Bowman, MD use diagnostic laboratory testing to determine nutrient overloads and/or deficiencies and test for possible presence of a kryptopyrrole disorder, which is also commonly called pyroluria or pyrrole disorder. If this condition is present it means that stress will cause depletion of vitamin B6, magnesium, and zinc in the patient, causing severe deficiencies that affect mood and behavior. From there, an individualized nutrient protocol is designed to normalize key chemical factors that influence neurotransmitter production and activity.

Mensah Medical can collaboratively work with the patient’s prescribing physician.  Therapeutic interventions are also encouraged to support behavior. It is possible to reduce prescription medication for Bipolar disorder as the treatment with targeted advanced nutrient therapy progresses from phase two to phase three, or after about 12 to 18 months.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder I or II we encourage you to become patients for our integrative approach to mental health. For those who have not been diagnosed but exhibit some of the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, please seek the assistance of our medical team. Since the nutrient protocols are not pharmacological drugs, it is considered safe and its potential rewards may be nearly unlimited.

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not known, but research suggests that it may be due to a combination of environmental, biological and genetic factors. Environmental triggers such as stress or changes in sleep patterns may trigger the onset of symptoms. Additionally, some individuals with bipolar disorder may have a family history of the condition, suggesting a hereditary link. Brain chemistry abnormalities and changes in brain structure may also play a role in the development of bipolar disorder.

Risk factors for bipolar disorder include family history, stressful life events, drug and alcohol abuse, and having another mental disorder such as depression or anxiety. Other risk factors may include sleep disturbances, trauma or abuse during childhood, being male, and performing poorly in school. Additionally, the age at which bipolar disorder begins to manifest itself is also a risk factor – typically between the ages 15 and 25.

Complications of bipolar disorder may include difficulty maintaining relationships, impaired thinking or decision-making ability, legal problems, substance abuse, anxiety and panic disorders, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, physical health issues such as obesity or diabetes, and difficulties in the workplace. It is also possible for people with bipolar disorder to develop additional mental health conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), psychosis among others.

There is no known way to prevent bipolar disorder, as the exact cause of this disorder remains unknown. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce its impacts on an individual’s life. Taking steps like learning coping skills, avoiding drugs and alcohol, getting regular exercise, maintaining healthy relationships, and seeking out support when needed can all be beneficial in managing the effects of bipolar disorder. Additionally, following a balanced lifestyle and diet is also recommended for those with bipolar disorder.

Diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based on an individual’s medical history and a physical exam. A mental health professional may also use various tests to assess the person’s symptoms and signs of bipolar disorder, compare them with the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and decide on the most appropriate diagnosis. If needed, additional tests such as blood tests or brain imaging may be ordered to rule out other possible illnesses that could cause similar symptoms.

People with bipolar disorder should create a lifestyle and environment that can help reduce the risk of symptoms exacerbation and psychosis. Lifestyle tips for people living with bipolar disorder include getting enough sleep, consuming a balanced diet, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, and staying away from drugs and alcohol. Additionally, participating in activities such as yoga, meditation, or exercise can help reduce stress levels. Engaging in social activities with family and friends may also be beneficial. Keeping a daily journal to process thoughts and feelings can help individuals identify any underlying triggers that could lead to episodes of mania or depression.

Some individuals with bipolar disorder may choose to supplement their medical treatments with alternative medicine or natural remedies. Some potential therapies used include herbal supplements, acupuncture, acupressure, and aromatherapy. For people who are resistant to traditional medications, various psychological therapies may also help reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are two approaches that can help individuals gain better coping skills and learn how to manage stress in a positive way. Other types of holistic mental health treatments such as equine therapy or art therapy may be beneficial for some individuals.

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow up you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.

At Mensah Medical, we run lab work and blood tests to confirm your bio individual needs. If during the appointment the doctors deem it necessary they may order additional testing such as a hair analysis, G.I. Map, SAM/SAH Methylation Profile, or others. The physicians will create an individualized nutrient protocol to address each of the imbalances presented. Treatment and long-term monitoring will be facilitated by the nursing staff, Dr. Mensah, and Dr. Bowman. Formal follow ups on an individual’s progression will be done every six months to ensure biochemical levels and symptoms are responding appropriately.