I Might be Bipolar. Who Do I Need to See?

Reader’s Question

I have many of the symptoms if not all (lol) of Bipolar Manic Depression, along with Insomnia and Anxiety attacks on a daily basis… Who do I need to discuss this with? What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist, and which should I see?

Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

Bipolar Disorder is a psychiatric condition created by problems with the brain’s neurochemisty and regulation system. The current treatment is the use of medications to stabilize brain neurotransmitters as well as prevent mood swings into manic (”high”) and depressive episodes. A Psychiatrist is trained both to indentify and to prescribe the necessay medications. A Psychiatrist is first a physician (M.D., D.O., etc.), with additional training in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. A Psychologist is a non-medical professional who is also trained in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. Psychologists typically use non-medication approaches such as psychotherapy, group counseling, and psychological evaluation/testing.

Research confirms that many psychiatric disorders are best treated by a combination of psychiatric medication and psychotherapy.

I’d recommend seeing a Psychiatrist first. That professional may then refer you to a Psychologist as part of your overall treatment program.

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