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Bipolar and related disorders
Bipolar disorder
Marked by mood changes that go beyond normal ups and downs: phases of euphoria or high energy (mania or hypomania) that alternate with depressive phases.
Common signs
- Periods of unusual energy and euphoria
- Needing much less sleep
- Talking fast and jumping from one idea to another
- Impulsive or risky decisions
- Episodes of depression
Having some of these signs doesn't mean you have the disorder: only a professional can make a diagnosis.
Why does it happen?
It has a significant biological basis and there is often a family history.
How is it diagnosed?
It requires a psychiatric assessment; the psychologist helps detect it and tell it apart from other conditions.
Treatment
The main treatment is medication prescribed by psychiatry, together with psychoeducation and therapy to prevent relapses.
Want some guidance? Take the Bipolar disorder test: free, 2-3 minutes.
We're here for you at Clínica Vivaldi
Registered psychologists at Calle Chiva 25 (Valencia) and online across Spain. First appointment with no waiting list; we work with psychiatry and nutrition when needed.
Educational content based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment. Reviewed by the Clínica Vivaldi team, November 2026.