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6-month mood swings Bipolar???
My father is 59 years old. For 6 months he stays in a good, normal mood, active and talks properly. But the next 6 months his mood changes a lot – sometimes he becomes extremely happy, talks too much, spends money unnecessarily, has high energy and less sleep. Other times he feels very sad, hopeless, silent, and does not take interest in anything. These mood changes keep happening in this pattern every year. We are worried it may be bipolar disorder. Please suggest treatment options, medicines, therapy, and whether hospital admission is needed or it can be managed at home. Also, guide us about any tests for proper diagnosis before starting treatment 🥹🙏🙏
Answers (7)
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I can help you better with further treatment course needed. U can connect me via whatsapp on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two.
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Symptoms that you have described suggestive of bipolar disorders that may be mixed type. Moreover diagnosis will be commented after a detailed assessment of symptoms.Base line investigations as CBC, LFT, KFT, RBS, s electrolyte will be needed to rule out physical causes
" Symptoms can be controlled on medications , if taken on time regularly under follow up of a psychiatrist
"Therapy has no much role at this stage, when symptoms control to such an extent that patient able to understand and listen, medications along with therapy work
"Since age is above fifty, medical history as bp, sugar, lipid profile, ECG, also done at base line
*Plan a visit with psychiatrist and bring all medical records of other physical illness as HTN, DM,etc for holistic management
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Kindly take a proper consultation
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Looks like it maybe bipolar disorder. Considering multiple episodes and his age, we will have to evaluate him in person / via an online consultation to ascertain the exact diagnosis, severity of illness based on which one would suggest admission or home care. Can prescribe meds also solely after an examination of the patient.
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Do book an appointment to consult me
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Thank you for explaining your father’s condition so clearly… it truly helps. The pattern you’ve described does seem suggestive of Bipolar Mood Disorder, which often involves alternating episodes of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and low mood (depression), just like you’ve observed over the year.
These mood changes are not due to personality flaws… they are rooted in brain chemistry and can be managed effectively with the right help. You’re doing the right thing by seeking support.
Next Steps
Please consult a psychiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis. They may recommend a combination of clinical interviews and screening tools like the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ). Blood tests and physical health checks may also be suggested to rule out other causes.
If the symptoms are stable and not severely risky, treatment can start from home. However, if there is any sign of risk (excessive impulsive behavior, suicidal thoughts, aggression, or lack of sleep), hospital admission may be necessary… only the doctor can decide this.
Treatment usually includes mood stabilizers, psychoeducation, and therapy. Therapy helps with awareness, stress management, and relapse prevention once medication stabilizes the condition.
Health Tips
Avoid self-diagnosing or stopping treatment abruptly. Stick to professional advice, maintain a mood chart to track patterns, and support your father without judgment. Early treatment leads to better outcomes and a more stable life.
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Dr. Saloni Seth Agarwal
Psychiatrist
7 yrs exp
Delhi
According to your history ,it seems to be bipolar disorder.But a thorough clinical evaluation is required
As such there are no tests for diagnosing the same and it’s a clinical diagnosis which has a very good improvement on medication ; we have scales/questionnaires to support the diagnosis and know the severity of the same
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Consult a Psychiatrist
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Dr. Shailaja Bandla
Addiction Psychiatrist
19 yrs exp
Vijayawada
Hi.. yes it appears to be bipolar disorder. However will need further history regarding the same to advise appropriately. Consult online for treatment
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.