Bipolar Disorder
We specialise in the comprehensive treatment of bipolar disorder, offering personalised care to help individuals achieve stability and improve their quality of life.
What is bipolar disorder?
Usually individuals with Bipolar disorder suffer mainly with depression. Episodes of abnormally elevated mood are typically less frequent and less obvious and are therefore often overlooked. As a consequence most people with a bipolar type mood disorder are often initially diagnosed with depression. This can result in months and sometimes years of ineffective treatment with antidepressants: which either don’t work, work only briefly or in some cases make matters worse.
Causes of bipolar disorder
Current evidence suggests Bipolar Disorder runs in families, with individuals inheriting genes which make them vulnerable to periods of unstable mood. It is thought a complex interaction between these genetic risk factors and stressful life events contributes to the development of mood problems, often in early adult life.
Diagnosing bipolar disorders
To diagnose an anxiety disorder, we conduct a thorough assessment that begins with a clinical interview to understand the patient's symptoms, including their onset, duration, and intensity.
We then examine the individual's medical history, family history of mental health issues, and current stressors.
The goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.
Treatment of bipolar disorders
Treatment typically involves finding the right medication and depending on your priorities can be specifically focussed on alleviating depression, preventing episodes of elevated mood or maintaining mood stability. National guidelines suggest treating Bipolar Depression with medicines other than antidepressants. Consideration will also be given to appropriate lifestyle interventions, optimising sleep, stress management and psychological interventions such as CBT.
Your journey
Referral
We accept self referrals although would prefer to receive referrals from your GP or other healthcare provider, outlining relevant clinical background.
Your first assessment
You can choose to meet your doctor in person at our consulting room in Edinburgh's New Town; or by secure video call from the comfort of your own home. Our initial appointments last one hour. This will afford you plenty of time to discuss your current difficulties and your goals for treatment. We will spend the final 15 minutes discussing our formulation and treatment options. You will subsequently receive a copy of your assessment letter and treatment plan (by secure email). If you have multiple or complex issues a further assessment appointment may be required, this will be discussed with you at the start of the appointment.
Follow up
Subsequent 30 minute follow up appointments will usually be carried out by video consultation (face to face is also possible) and will be more focused on medication titration and symptom review.
Our clinical team
Get in touch to discuss which one of our team of specialists would be the most relevant for you to speak to.
Fees
New patient psychiatric assessment (one hour) - £350
Follow up consultation (30 mins) Consultant - £170
Private prescription - £25
Private controlled drug prescription - £30
All payments must be made at the time of booking by card payment.
Cancellation Policy
We operate a strict cancellation policy for appointments. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will be charged the full rate. Failure to attend appointments will also be charged the full rate. Cancellations can be made by emailing admin@edinburghadultpsychiatry.co.uk or phoning 0131 364 4758