Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I disorder is a mental health condition that causes significant shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to function in everyday life. People with bipolar I experience periods of mania that are much more intense than typical mood changes. Many also experience major depressive episodes, although depression is not required for a diagnosis.

Living with bipolar I disorder can be challenging, but effective treatment is available. Medication, psychotherapy, healthy daily routines, and ongoing support can help many people manage symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Because bipolar I disorder shares symptoms with other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), borderline personality disorder, and substance use disorders, receiving an accurate diagnosis is an essential first step.

At CBT Baltimore, we provide evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage mood disorders and other mental health concerns. Learn more about our therapy services and how our clinicians can support your treatment goals.

What Is Bipolar I Disorder?

Bipolar I disorder is a mood disorder characterized by at least one manic episode. Mania is a period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood accompanied by increased energy and changes in thinking and behavior.

Although many people with bipolar I also experience major depressive episodes, depression is not necessary to meet the diagnostic criteria. A single manic episode is sufficient for a diagnosis when other medical and psychiatric causes have been ruled out.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar I disorder is defined by manic episodes that last at least seven days or are severe enough to require hospital care.

Historically, bipolar disorder was referred to as manic depression because it involves periods of elevated mood and, for many individuals, episodes of depression. Today, healthcare professionals use the terms bipolar I disorder and bipolar II disorder because they more accurately describe different patterns of illness.

Without treatment, bipolar I disorder can interfere with relationships, employment, education, financial stability, and physical health. With appropriate care, many individuals successfully manage symptoms and maintain meaningful personal and professional lives.

Understanding Mania

The defining feature of bipolar I disorder is a manic episode.

A manic episode involves a noticeable change in mood and behavior that lasts at least one week or requires hospitalization because symptoms are severe.

During mania, a person may experience:

• Elevated or unusually cheerful mood
• Extreme irritability
• Racing thoughts
• Rapid speech
• Distractibility
• Increased goal-directed activity
• Decreased need for sleep
• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
• Impulsive decision-making
• Risk-taking behaviors

Someone experiencing mania may feel unusually confident, energetic, or productive. However, judgment is often impaired, leading to decisions that may have serious consequences.

Examples include:

• Excessive spending
• Risky sexual behavior
• Reckless driving
• Quitting a job impulsively
• Unrealistic business ventures
• Substance misuse

Because insight is often reduced during mania, individuals may not recognize that they need help.

Severe Mania and Hospitalization

Some manic episodes become severe enough to require hospitalization.

Hospitalization may be necessary when someone:

• Cannot care for themselves safely
• Experiences psychosis
• Becomes a danger to themselves or others
• Is unable to make safe decisions because of impaired judgment

Hospitalization is intended to provide stabilization, ensure safety, and begin effective treatment.

Psychosis During Mania

Some people with bipolar I disorder develop psychotic symptoms during severe manic episodes.

Psychosis involves losing contact with reality and may include:

Hallucinations

Hallucinations involve sensing things that are not present, such as hearing voices or seeing things others do not.

Delusions

Delusions are firmly held false beliefs that remain despite evidence to the contrary.

Examples include believing:

• You possess extraordinary powers.
• You have a special relationship with a famous person.
• You have an important mission that others cannot understand.

Psychotic symptoms are medical emergencies that require prompt evaluation and treatment.

Major Depressive Episodes

Although mania defines bipolar I disorder, many people spend more time experiencing depression than mania.

Symptoms of a major depressive episode may include:

• Persistent sadness
• Hopelessness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping too much or insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Suicidal thoughts

Depressive episodes can be just as disabling as manic episodes and often have a significant impact on work, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Unlike ordinary sadness, depression associated with bipolar I disorder may last for weeks and significantly impair daily functioning.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are in immediate danger, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency department.

Mixed Episodes and Mixed Features

Some individuals experience symptoms of mania and depression at the same time.

These episodes are often referred to as mixed episodes or episodes with mixed features.

For example, someone may feel:

• Extremely energized but hopeless
• Restless while deeply depressed
• Unable to sleep while experiencing suicidal thoughts
• Agitated and emotionally overwhelmed

Mixed features are associated with increased emotional distress and may increase suicide risk, making prompt evaluation especially important.

Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II Disorder

Although bipolar I disorder and bipolar II disorder share many symptoms, they are distinct diagnoses. Our guide to bipolar 1 vs. bipolar 2 compares the two in more detail.

Bipolar I Disorder

People with bipolar I experience at least one manic episode. Depression is common but not required for diagnosis.

Bipolar II Disorder

People with bipolar II disorder experience hypomanic episodes rather than full mania. Hypomania causes noticeable changes in mood and energy but does not reach the severity of mania.

Individuals with bipolar II also experience at least one major depressive episode.

Hypomanic episodes generally do not include psychosis or require hospitalization, while manic episodes in bipolar I may involve either or both.

Because depression is often the most prominent symptom of bipolar II disorder, some individuals are initially misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder until hypomanic episodes are recognized.

Bipolar Disorder Spectrum

Mood disorders exist along a spectrum.

Related conditions include:

• Bipolar I disorder
• Bipolar II disorder
• Cyclothymic disorder
• Other specified bipolar and related disorders

Cyclothymic disorder involves ongoing fluctuations between mild depressive symptoms and hypomanic symptoms that do not meet the full criteria for bipolar I or bipolar II disorder.

Although symptoms may be less severe, cyclothymia can still significantly affect quality of life and benefit from treatment.

What Causes Bipolar I Disorder?

Researchers do not believe bipolar I disorder has a single cause. Instead, it appears to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors that influence how the brain regulates mood.

While scientists continue to study the condition, current evidence suggests that changes in brain function, inherited traits, and stressful life experiences may all contribute to the development of bipolar I disorder.

Developing bipolar I disorder is not the result of a personal weakness, poor character, or lack of willpower. It is a medical condition that benefits from professional treatment and ongoing support.

Genetics and Family History

Family history is one of the strongest known risk factors for bipolar I disorder.

People who have a close biological relative with bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the condition than those without a family history. However, genetics alone do not determine whether someone will experience bipolar disorder.

Many individuals with a family history never develop the condition, while others receive a diagnosis despite having no known family history.

Researchers believe multiple genes likely contribute to risk rather than a single “bipolar gene.”

Brain Chemistry

Brain cells communicate through chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.

Although researchers are still learning exactly how bipolar disorder develops, differences involving neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine are believed to influence mood regulation.

These biological differences may help explain why medications that affect brain chemistry, including mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics, can reduce symptoms.

Environmental Factors

Stressful life events do not cause bipolar I disorder by themselves, but they may trigger an episode in someone who is already biologically vulnerable.

Potential triggers include:

• Significant life changes
• Loss of a loved one
• Trauma
• Major relationship changes
• Chronic stress
• Sleep deprivation
• Certain medications
• Substance use

Learning to recognize personal triggers can become an important part of long-term treatment.

Rapid Cycling

Some individuals experience rapid cycling, a pattern in which four or more mood episodes occur within a 12-month period.

Episodes may include:

• Mania
• Hypomania
• Major depressive episodes
• Mixed episodes

Rapid cycling can make bipolar disorder more difficult to manage and often requires adjustments to treatment.

Not everyone with bipolar I disorder experiences rapid cycling, and the pattern may change over time.

Conditions That Can Occur Alongside Bipolar I Disorder

Many people with bipolar I disorder also have another mental health condition.

These co-occurring conditions may influence diagnosis, treatment planning, and recovery.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common conditions seen alongside bipolar disorder.

People may experience:

• Generalized anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Social anxiety
• Excessive worry

Treating both conditions often leads to better overall outcomes.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD and bipolar disorder share symptoms such as distractibility, impulsivity, and increased activity levels.

Despite these similarities, they are different conditions that require different treatment approaches.

A careful evaluation helps distinguish whether symptoms reflect ADHD, bipolar disorder, or both.

Substance Use Disorders

Some individuals use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to manage mood symptoms.

Unfortunately, substance use often worsens bipolar disorder, increases episode frequency, and makes treatment less effective.

Addressing substance use disorders is an important part of comprehensive care.

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder can both involve mood instability, impulsive behavior, and relationship difficulties.

However, the timing and pattern of mood changes differ.

Bipolar disorder involves distinct mood episodes that may last days or weeks. Borderline personality disorder is generally characterized by rapid emotional reactions that are often triggered by interpersonal stress.

Because the conditions can appear similar, an accurate diagnosis is essential.

How Bipolar I Disorder Is Diagnosed

There is no blood test, brain scan, or laboratory test that can diagnose bipolar I disorder.

Diagnosis is based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation performed by a qualified mental health professional or physician.

The evaluation typically includes:

• Current symptoms
• Past mood episodes
• Medical history
• Family history
• Medication history
• Substance use
• Sleep patterns
• Daily functioning

Healthcare providers also evaluate whether another medical condition or medication could better explain the symptoms.

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), bipolar I disorder requires at least one manic episode.

A manic episode includes:

• Abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood
• Increased energy or activity
• Symptoms lasting at least one week or requiring hospitalization
• Significant impairment in social or occupational functioning, or the presence of psychosis

During the episode, a person experiences several symptoms such as:

• Inflated self-esteem
• Decreased need for sleep
• Increased talkativeness
• Racing thoughts
• Distractibility
• Increased goal-directed activity
• Excessive involvement in risky behaviors

Although many people also experience major depressive episodes, depression is not required for a bipolar I diagnosis.

Why Bipolar I Is Sometimes Misdiagnosed

Because depressive episodes are often the first symptoms people seek treatment for, bipolar I disorder is sometimes initially diagnosed as major depressive disorder.

If a manic episode has not yet occurred or has gone unrecognized, clinicians may not have enough information to identify bipolar disorder.

Other conditions that may resemble bipolar disorder include:

• Anxiety disorders
• ADHD
• Borderline personality disorder
• Cyclothymic disorder
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Substance-induced mood disorders

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis often requires a detailed discussion of mood history, family history, and changes in behavior over time.

Why Antidepressants Require Careful Use

Antidepressants are commonly used to treat major depressive disorder, but their role in bipolar I disorder is more complex.

For some individuals, taking an antidepressant without a mood stabilizer may increase the risk of triggering mania or rapid cycling.

Because of this possibility, antidepressants are often prescribed only after careful evaluation and frequently in combination with a mood stabilizer.

Medication decisions should always be made with a qualified healthcare provider who is familiar with bipolar disorder.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

When bipolar I disorder is identified early, individuals are more likely to receive appropriate medications, psychotherapy, education, and support before symptoms lead to repeated hospitalizations, relationship difficulties, financial problems, or occupational impairment.

Recognizing the warning signs of mania and depression allows people and their loved ones to respond more quickly when symptoms begin to emerge.

Treatment is not only about reducing mood episodes. It is about helping people maintain healthy relationships, pursue meaningful goals, and build stable, fulfilling lives.

Treatment for Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I disorder is a lifelong condition, but it is highly treatable. Most people benefit from a comprehensive treatment plan that combines medication, psychotherapy, healthy lifestyle habits, and ongoing monitoring. The goal is not only to reduce symptoms during a manic episode or major depressive episode but also to prevent future episodes and improve overall quality of life.

Treatment is most effective when it is individualized. What works well for one person may not be the best approach for another, which is why working closely with a psychiatrist, therapist, and primary care provider is often recommended.

Mood Stabilizers

Mood stabilizers are considered a cornerstone of treatment for bipolar I disorder. These medications help reduce the severity and frequency of mood episodes while lowering the risk of future manic and depressive episodes.

Many people remain on a mood stabilizer long-term to maintain stability and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Lithium

Lithium is one of the most extensively studied medications for bipolar disorder and has been used successfully for decades.

Research has shown that lithium can:

• Reduce the frequency of manic episodes
• Help prevent depressive episodes
• Lower the risk of hospitalization
• Reduce suicide risk in many individuals with bipolar disorder

Because lithium levels must remain within a therapeutic range, people taking this medication require regular blood tests to monitor medication levels as well as kidney and thyroid function.

Although monitoring requires additional follow-up, lithium remains one of the most effective treatments available for bipolar I disorder.

Valproate

Valproate is another commonly prescribed mood stabilizer, particularly for acute mania and mixed episodes.

Depending on an individual’s symptoms and medical history, a psychiatrist may recommend valproate as an alternative to or in combination with other medications.

Like lithium, valproate requires ongoing medical monitoring because of potential side effects and interactions.

Atypical Antipsychotics

Despite the name, atypical antipsychotics are used for more than psychosis.

These medications are frequently prescribed to:

• Treat acute manic episodes
• Manage mixed features
• Reduce psychotic symptoms
• Help stabilize mood
• Prevent future episodes

For some people, atypical antipsychotics are used for short-term stabilization. Others may continue taking them as part of a long-term treatment plan.

Medication selection depends on many factors, including symptom severity, previous treatment response, side effects, and other medical conditions.

Antidepressants

Treating depression in bipolar I disorder requires careful planning.

While antidepressants are effective for many people with major depressive disorder, they may increase the risk of triggering mania or rapid cycling in some individuals with bipolar disorder if used alone.

For this reason, psychiatrists often prescribe antidepressants only when clinically appropriate and frequently pair them with a mood stabilizer.

Individuals should never stop or change psychiatric medications without consulting their prescribing provider.

Psychotherapy for Bipolar I Disorder

Medication is often an essential part of treatment, but psychotherapy plays an equally important role in helping people manage bipolar I disorder over time.

Talk therapy helps individuals understand their condition, recognize early warning signs, improve coping skills, and navigate the emotional and practical challenges of living with a mood disorder.

Several forms of psychotherapy have demonstrated benefits for bipolar disorder.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched approaches for mood disorders.

CBT helps people identify unhelpful thinking patterns and replace them with healthier, more balanced responses.

For individuals with bipolar I disorder, CBT may help:

• Recognize early signs of mania or depression
• Develop coping strategies for stressful situations
• Improve medication adherence
• Reduce anxiety symptoms
• Address depressive thinking patterns
• Improve problem-solving skills
• Build healthy daily routines

CBT does not replace medication for bipolar I disorder, but it can significantly enhance long-term treatment outcomes when used alongside medical care.

At CBT Baltimore, our clinicians use evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients manage mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and related mental health concerns. Learn more about our therapy services.

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT)

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy focuses on creating consistent daily routines.

Research suggests that disruptions in sleep and daily schedules can contribute to mood episodes in bipolar disorder.

IPSRT encourages individuals to maintain regular patterns for:

• Sleeping
• Waking
• Eating
• Working
• Physical activity
• Social interactions

The therapy also addresses relationship challenges and life transitions that may affect emotional stability.

Developing predictable daily rhythms can help reduce the likelihood of future mood episodes for some individuals.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment that may be recommended when symptoms are severe or when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

ECT is sometimes considered for:

• Severe depression
• Catatonia
• Treatment-resistant bipolar disorder
• Situations requiring rapid symptom improvement

Modern ECT is performed under general anesthesia by trained medical professionals. Although popular media has portrayed the procedure inaccurately, it is a well-established treatment that can be highly effective for certain individuals.

A psychiatrist can determine whether ECT is appropriate based on an individual’s clinical needs.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.

TMS is approved for certain forms of depression and continues to be studied for bipolar depression.

Because recommendations vary based on an individual’s symptoms and treatment history, patients should discuss whether TMS is appropriate with a qualified psychiatrist.

Lifestyle Habits That Support Recovery

Healthy lifestyle habits cannot replace medical treatment, but they can help reduce stress, support emotional well-being, and improve overall health.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep disruption is both a symptom and a trigger of mood episodes.

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule may help reduce the risk of relapse.

Helpful habits include:

• Going to bed and waking at consistent times
• Limiting caffeine later in the day
• Avoiding excessive screen time before bed
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine

Discuss any significant decrease in the need for sleep without feeling tired with a healthcare provider, as it may signal the beginning of a manic episode.

Reduce Stress

Stressful life events can contribute to mood episodes in some individuals.

Healthy coping strategies may include:

• Mindfulness
• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Regular exercise
• Journaling
• Spending time with supportive family and friends

Therapy can also help individuals build resilience and respond more effectively to stress.

Avoid Alcohol and Recreational Drugs

Alcohol and recreational drug use can worsen symptoms, interfere with medications, and increase the likelihood of relapse.

For individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders, integrated treatment that addresses both conditions often leads to better outcomes.

Recognizing Early Warning Signs

Many people learn to recognize subtle changes before a full mood episode develops.

Early warning signs of mania may include:

• Sleeping less without feeling tired
• Increased energy
• Racing thoughts
• Talking more than usual
• Increased impulsivity
• Feeling unusually confident
• Taking on multiple new projects

Early signs of depression may include:

• Persistent sadness
• Fatigue
• Withdrawal from others
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
• Changes in appetite
• Increased hopelessness

Recognizing these patterns early allows individuals and their treatment team to respond before symptoms worsen.

Building a Long-Term Treatment Plan

Managing bipolar I disorder is an ongoing process rather than a short-term goal.

An effective long-term treatment plan often includes:

• Regular psychiatric follow-up
• Medication management
• Cognitive behavioral therapy or another evidence-based psychotherapy
• Consistent sleep and daily routines
• Stress management strategies
• Education for family members
• A written plan for recognizing and responding to early warning signs

With appropriate treatment, many people with bipolar I disorder build successful careers, maintain healthy relationships, pursue higher education, raise families, and enjoy meaningful, productive lives.

Living Well With Bipolar I Disorder

Receiving a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder can bring a mix of emotions. Some people feel relief after finally understanding years of mood changes, while others feel uncertain about what the diagnosis means for their future.

Although bipolar I disorder is a lifelong mental health condition, it does not define who you are or what you can accomplish. Many people with bipolar I build successful careers, maintain healthy relationships, raise families, and pursue meaningful goals with the help of ongoing treatment and support.

Managing bipolar I disorder is often most successful when treatment becomes part of a long-term wellness plan rather than something that only happens during a crisis.

Helpful strategies include:

• Taking medications exactly as prescribed
• Attending regular therapy appointments
• Keeping consistent sleep and wake times
• Maintaining regular meal schedules
• Monitoring mood changes
• Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs
• Building a trusted support system
• Developing a relapse prevention plan with your treatment team

Many people also find it helpful to keep a mood journal or use a mood-tracking app. Recording changes in sleep, energy, mood, stress, and daily routines can help identify patterns before symptoms become severe.

Supporting a Loved One With Bipolar I Disorder

Family members and friends often play an important role in treatment and recovery.

If someone you care about has bipolar I disorder, consider these ways to provide support:

• Learn about the condition from reliable sources.
• Encourage treatment without judgment.
• Be aware of early warning signs of mania or depression.
• Support healthy routines, especially consistent sleep.
• Communicate calmly during periods of emotional distress.
• Encourage emergency care if safety becomes a concern.

Supporting someone with bipolar disorder can be challenging. Family members may also benefit from therapy or support groups to learn effective communication skills and healthy boundaries.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Bipolar I disorder can sometimes involve serious risks that require immediate medical attention.

Seek emergency care or call 911 if someone is:

• Experiencing psychosis, including hallucinations or delusions
• Unable to care for themselves because of mania
• Behaving in ways that place themselves or others in immediate danger
• Expressing suicidal thoughts with intent or a plan

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day to provide confidential support.

Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve long-term outcomes.

How CBT Baltimore Can Help

Managing bipolar I disorder often involves more than medication alone. Therapy provides a space to better understand your diagnosis, develop coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and recognize early warning signs of mood episodes.

At CBT Baltimore, our therapists provide evidence-based care for individuals living with mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, and other conditions we treat. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help clients:

• Develop practical coping strategies
• Improve emotional regulation
• Identify thought patterns that contribute to distress
• Strengthen communication skills
• Manage stress more effectively
• Support long-term recovery alongside psychiatric care

Therapy is not a replacement for medication when medication is indicated, but it can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Learn more about our therapy services and how our clinicians can support your mental health goals.

If you are ready to begin therapy, visit our Get Started page. We also offer telehealth therapy for clients who prefer virtual appointments.

Take the First Step Toward Treatment

Living with bipolar I disorder can feel overwhelming, but effective treatment can make a meaningful difference. Medication, psychotherapy, healthy routines, and ongoing support help many people manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

If you are experiencing significant mood swings, manic episodes, depressive episodes, or other symptoms that interfere with your daily life, professional support is available.

The team at CBT Baltimore is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you are seeking an evaluation, beginning therapy for the first time, or looking to strengthen your long-term coping skills, we are here to help.

Contact CBT Baltimore today to request a session and get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bipolar I Disorder

What is bipolar I disorder?

Bipolar I disorder is a mood disorder characterized by at least one manic episode. Many people also experience major depressive episodes, though depression is not required for diagnosis.

What is the difference between bipolar I and bipolar II?

The primary difference is the severity of elevated mood episodes. Bipolar I involves full manic episodes, while bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes and at least one major depressive episode.

What is a manic episode?

A manic episode is a period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood accompanied by increased energy and changes in behavior that last at least one week or require hospitalization.

Can bipolar I disorder include psychosis?

Yes. Some people experience psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions, during severe manic episodes or, less commonly, severe depressive episodes.

Is bipolar I disorder hereditary?

Family history increases the likelihood of developing bipolar disorder, but genetics are only one factor. Environmental and biological influences also contribute.

What medications are used to treat bipolar I disorder?

Treatment often includes mood stabilizers such as lithium or valproate, atypical antipsychotics, and, in some cases, antidepressants used carefully under psychiatric supervision.

Can cognitive behavioral therapy help bipolar I disorder?

Yes. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people recognize early warning signs, improve coping skills, manage stress, and support long-term treatment alongside medication.

What is rapid cycling?

Rapid cycling refers to experiencing four or more mood episodes within a 12-month period. Episodes may include mania, hypomania, depression, or mixed features.

Can someone with bipolar I disorder live a normal life?

Many people with bipolar I disorder lead fulfilling, productive lives with appropriate treatment, medication management, psychotherapy, and healthy daily routines.

When should someone seek emergency care?

Emergency care is appropriate if someone is experiencing psychosis, severe mania, suicidal thoughts with intent, or behavior that places themselves or others at immediate risk.