... bipolar disorder treatment in the philippines ... (psychiatrist, psychologist, psychotherapist, counselor, life coach)

we all have our mood swings. sometimes, we feel unmotivated, gloomy or grouchy. at other times, we're all bubbly and energetic. there is a natural ebb and flow to our moods and this is a normal part of our lives.
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for some people however, the mood swings are too extreme. rather than an ebb and flow of moods, the mood swings become more like a rollercoaster ride with alpine peaks and abysmal valleys. for a period of time, they slump into a deep depression. and then after a while, they become as hyperactive as an energizer bunny on shabu. this type of mood swing isn't normal. this is a bipolar disorder.
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a bipolar disorder is caused by an imbalance of many brain chemicals- serotonin, adrenaline, dopamine, GABA, and many others. this brain chemical imbalance is usually triggered by physical, emotional, or mental stress. sometimes, it happens spontaneously even in the absence of stress.
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the depressive phase of a bipolar disorder is manifested with the following symptoms: sadness, absence of motivation, sleep pattern changes, appetite changes, energy level changes, lowered self-confidence, negative/pessismistic thinking, concentration problems, and thoughts of death or suicide.
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the manic phase of a bipolar disorder is manifested with the following symptoms: extreme bubbliness or grouchiness, decreased need for sleep, hyperactivity, extreme talkativity, thoughts jumping from one topic to another, and impulsive behaviors.
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bipolar disorder is easily treated with mood stabilizers. it is just a matter of finding the right mood stabilizers and the right dosages. once found, the person with bipolar disorder usually gets well within 2-3 weeks. a wholistic treatment package will consist of mood stabilizing medications, counseling/psychotherapy, relaxation and stress management strategies, and holistic wellness therapies.
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there are many people around us with bipolar disorder but we don't recognize them. that's because when they seriously comply with their treatment regimen, they exhibit no symptoms whatsoever. the goal of treatment is to help people with bipolar disorder live normal, functional, productive, happy, and meaningful lives-- and from my clinical experience, that goal is VERY possible!
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interview by abs-cbn's tv show "ted failon ngayon."