Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder has extreme mood changes and impacts people’s behavior

Bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) is a serious mental health condition characterised by swings between ‘high’ or manic states and depressive episodes.

It can be debilitating and have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life.

Common symptoms include:

Highs

Lots of energy
Irritability
Little sleep and appetite
Rapid thinking and speaking
Psychosis – fixed beliefs you have special powers or others are out to get you
Risk taking – impulsive behaviours that are out of character

Lows

Feelings of hopeless, worthlessness or guilt
Lack of motivation or interest in previously enjoyable activities
Reduced appetite
Disrupted sleep
Persistent low mood
Lack of energy or increased fatigue
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

BPAD can be caused by a range of factors including genetics, other medical conditions, stressful or traumatic life events or substance use such as alcohol or drugs. First episodes of mania are most common during your twenties, but can occur later in life.

At The Mind & Psychiatry Clinic, we will do an initial assessment to better understand these factors and develop a treatment plan. Treatment for BPAD may include medication, psychological therapies and lifestyle approaches.

Book your initial 90 minute mental health consultation online now and we look forward to meeting you.

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Patient Testimonials

I left feeling really reassured, clear and supported

This was my first time speaking with someone and I was very nervous. I had no idea what to expect but felt at ease very quickly and overall have only positive feelings towards my appointment.

Professional and empathetic

I had an excellent experience with Dr Pittock. I was apprehensive about the appointment, but she put me at ease and created a safe space. She was both professional and empathetic throughout and never made me feel rushed or judged. She gave me all the information I needed regarding medication so that I could make an informed decision.

I felt at ease very quickly

This was my first time speaking with someone and I was very nervous. I had no idea what to expect but felt at ease very quickly and overall have only positive feelings towards my appointment.

Incredibly understanding

Dr Pittock was incredibly understanding of my struggles with ADHD, and didn't make me feel ashamed in any way. She changed my medications to suit my lifestyle and sleep schedule, instead of just a one-size-fits-all program that I had previously been on.

I felt really comfortable

Dr Amy Martin is fantastic. I really felt comfortable about talking my personal issues with her. It is helping me a lot in this very delicate situation.

Very impressed

Very thorough in our hour together and the letter to the doctor was very detailed accurate and on point. I was very impressed.

Kind and detailed in her explanations

Dr Pittock is kind and detailed in her explanations. I feel very comfortable in reaching out to her and I'm happy to have her as my doctor.

My appointments are a very pleasant experience

Dr. Amy Martin really made me feel comfortable and safe to speak openly and honestly about how I feel. She has also showed lots of compassion and has made my appointments a very pleasant experience, considering the difficult conversations.

I felt listened to and understood

My first visit with Dr. Pittock was a 90-minute initial assessment. I was very apprehensive beforehand but she was able to put me at ease immediately and made me feel I could talk openly and be myself without fear of judgement. I found her communication style to be very effective – she made it easy for me to speak frankly and give a full account of my situation, and I felt listened to and understood when she give her assessment. I left the appointment feeling I had a way forward.

I'm so happy with my psychiatrist

I'm so happy I've Dr Martin as my psychiatrist. I feel seen, cared for and understood by a medical professional for the first time. Thank you so incredibly much.

Very compassionate and understanding

Amy was a pleasure to speak to, very compassionate and understanding making a difficult call that little bit easier. Very much appreciated.

Bipolar Disorder