Depression & Bipolar Disorder

Depression and bipolar disorder, also known as mood disorders, are common. About one in 10 Americans suffers from a mood disorder. Depression treatment and the treatment of mood disorders can be complex and challenging , especially when complicated by the presence of another mental illness or addiction, commonly referred to as a co-occurring condition. But leading researchers at Lindner Center of HOPE offer the knowledge, wisdom and experience to treat mood disorders and other co-occurring conditions.

Download the Landmark Depression and Bipolar Disorder Program brochure here.

Lindner Center of HOPE offers a program steeped in compelling research by leading clinicians and researchers. Top researchers Paul E. Keck, Jr., MD, Psychiatrist in Chief and Founding President and CEO – Emeritus, and Susan L. McElroy, MD, and their team at Lindner Center of HOPE, have created a landmark program for successful depression treatment and the treatment of bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. Their research, vision and oversight have greatly enhanced how these disorders and co-occurring conditions are diagnosed and treated.  Finding depression treatment and treatment for bipolar and other mood disorders can be challenging, however, there are some tips for finding the right one for you.

Discover unprecedented access to clinical expertise. The Center leverages the latest advancements and protocols as well as proven techniques for most conditions. Adolescents and adults receive unprecedented access to a distinguished team of clinicians at one location. Treatment includes an integrated combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Insight Oriented Therapy (IOT), family therapy, and calibrated medication therapy for positive long-term outcomes. The state-of-the-art facility also houses two modalities proven to resolve treatment resistant mood disorders:

State-of-the-art Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy – a safe, proven, FDA-approved technique

Industry standard Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) – a proven, low-risk technique

Patients in the Depression and Bipolar Disorder Program receive a thorough evidence-based treatment plan, developed using state-of-the-art techniques, in collaboration, with their clinician(s) at Lindner Center of HOPE.  With a model that views the patient as the head of their treatment team, each clinician contributing to the individual’s treatment provides input into the treatment plan which is reviewed by the patient.

Individuals with co-morbid conditions are welcome. The Lindner Center of HOPE also provides specialized care for persons with eating disorders or co-occurring substance abuse disorders and treatment resistant mood disorders.

The Lindner Center of HOPE prides itself in providing patient-centered and family-centered care.  We encourage all of our patients to include family members in as much of their recovery as they will allow. Our staff is trained and experienced in helping family members learn how to assist their relative’s management of their depression or bipolar disorder more effectively in a humane, caring and recovery-enhancing manner.  Family members are welcome to participate in treatment planning, educational sessions, and therapy sessions.  There may be times where a family member’s presence may cause distress. When this occurs staff will help the patient and families recognize this pattern and work towards a solution that enhances the patient’s ability to manage their symptoms.

Similarly, when patients consent, teachers, employers or other significant individuals are included in the treatment dialogue to enhance the individual’s ability to apply the gains they make in the program to their natural day-to-day life.

While each mood disorder is distinctly different, all are highly treatable once they are correctly identified. A complete and accurate diagnostic is the first step in managing a mood disorder. While symptoms can range dramatically, a history of mood disorders in the family and frequency of episodes can be a predictor. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve treatment outcomes.

The clinicians and researchers at Lindner Center of HOPE are internationally recognized for their ground breaking work in understanding and treating mood disorders. Learn more about the symptoms and behaviors associated with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders:

Pediatric Symptoms
Have you noticed behavioral or emotional changes in your child?
See if he or she needs help.

Teen Suicide
Suicide is a serious problem among young people.
Learn the facts about teen suicide.

Depression and You
Learn the symptoms and signs of depression.
Seek help today.

About Bipolar Disorder
Learn about the symptoms and behaviors associated with bipolar disorder.
Learn the facts about bipolar disorder.

Although researchers are still determining the exact causes of depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, most believe that mood disorders may result from a complex interaction of genetic, medical, psychological and psychosocial factors.

  • Possible Genetic Factors
  • Immediate family member with a mood disorder
  • Twin with a mood disorder
  • Neurochemical and biologic alterations in several genes

Possible Medical Factors

  • Side-effects from specific medications
  • Medical conditions

Possible Psychological and Psychosocial Factors

  • Dramatic life events and environmental stress
  • Sexual abuse in childhood
  • Faulty or negative thought patterns
  • Early childhood loss and difficulties with attachment

Progressive, proven treatment is available through Lindner Center of HOPE where an experienced team can accurately diagnose and treat a variety of mood disorders. These include major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), psychotic depression, postpartum depression, and other mood disorders.

Individualized treatment for depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders helps patients live better

At Lindner Center of HOPE, patients directly benefit from research led by expert clinicians — Paul Keck, Jr., MD, and Susan McElroy, MD. Their work advances what is known about depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, leading to more productive and effective care.

The team of expert psychotherapists, researchers, and clinicians works collaboratively to diagnose mood disorders and any other co-occurring conditions. Because mood disorders can be complex, a thorough and accurate assessment is the foundation for treatment. What follows is a custom treatment plan designed to help patients better manage their conditions.

Patients can receive treatment for major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), psychotic depression, postpartum depression, and other mood disorders.

A Compelling Approach to Therapy Equips Patients with Tools to Succeed

To effectively treat depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, clinicians use a carefully developed blend of therapy proven to deliver the best outcomes. Therapies teach patients how to manage symptoms and behaviors to enable productive, rewarding lives:

  • Psychiatrists who understand the function of medications in acute and long-term treatment provide a balance of Insight Oriented Therapy (IOT) sessions and medication management.
    • Insight Oriented Therapy (IOT) – Clinicians work with patients to improve self-awareness and identify behavior patterns by evaluating how past events impact thoughts, feelings and behaviors that have led to difficulties with moods and relationships. For many people, these insights can lead to positive changes in how they cope with stress in their life and can reduce and maintain the reduction of depressive symptoms.
    • Medication Management – The staff understands how to effectively use medications for acute and long-term treatment. They are adept at calibrating medications and adjusting to patient needs.
  • Psychologists use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and one of the most current, scientifically proven treatments — Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — to support patient recovery and long-term wellness.
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This progressive therapy helps identify and challenge a patient’s negative thought patterns and encourages behaviors designed to counter-act depressive symptoms. Learn about CBT vs DBT.
    • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – This differentiating approach to treatment helps patients develop strategies to manage quick and strong fluctuations in emotions. No other facility in the greater Cincinnati area offers more expertise in DBT than the Lindner Center of HOPE. Clinicians trained to use DBT support the development of skills and mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation. These skills assist patients in avoiding extreme behaviors that limit the ability to function and encourage change to a more successful and fulfilling life.
    • Integrative Mental Health – The field of Integrative Mental Health considers other reasons for depression, such as an altered microbiome, chronic inflammation, hormones, mitochondrial dysfunction, dietary sensitivities, genetic mutations, and the role of neurogenesis. Integrative Mental Health focuses on the whole person in order to promote recovery as holistically as possible from a mental health diagnosis.

At the Lindner Center of HOPE Integrative Mental Health programming includes genotyping that enables the detection of the MTHFR genetic mutation, and treat accordingly. Micronutrient, thyroid, and metabolic testing is also offered with appropriate recommendations on diet and lifestyle changes.

  • Social workers educate patients and their families as well as provide support throughout treatment.
  • Family Therapy, an inclusive approach to education and therapy, assists the patient and supports the family.

Premier Assessment and Residential Programs

Learn about the different levels of care for mood disorders at Lindner Center of HOPE:


Outpatient Care

LCOHPA logo optionB_smaller fileMost patients with mood disorders can be treated effectively on an outpatient basis. Comprehensive outpatient services guided by experts in the clinical practice group, Lindner Center of HOPE Professional Associates (LCOHPA), establish an individualized program using a combination of the newest protocols and proven techniques. With cutting-edge research conducted onsite by members of the treatment team, patients directly benefit from new and emerging knowledge related to mood disorders. Patients and their families also participate in meaningful individual or family therapy while maintaining normal life activities.

Who Benefits

  • Children, teens and adults with mood disorders who are able to participate successfully in regularly scheduled outpatient visits on their own or with family or support individuals
  • Patients who can work closely with a multidisciplinary team to overcome the challenges of mood disorders

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment focuses on quickly resolving serious and life threatening symptoms. The treatment team leverages medication management and supportive psychotherapy in a safe, structured environment. With cutting-edge research conducted onsite by members of the treatment team, patients directly benefit from new and emerging knowledge related to mood disorders.

Who Benefits

  • Adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood disorders
  • Patients who need a more intensive, focused treatment environment for stabilization
  • Patients whose symptoms are severely disabling or if there is a risk of harm to self or violence to others

Partial Hospitalization for Adults

Lindner Center of HOPE is committed to providing the full spectrum of care for adults suffering with mental illness. When an adult’s daily functioning is impaired by mental illness, yet criteria is not met for hospitalization, the Adult Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) provides intensive treatment in a safe and therapeutic environment, without full hospitalization. Partial hospitalization helps patients progress to the point where standard outpatient appointments can be effective. This program is also used as a step-down program from hospitalization, with the intent of gradually easing an adult back into their home environment.

The program operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and enrollees attend 5 days per week for up to 4 weeks. The program offers some flexibility in design, so that the PHP treatment team and the enrollee can work together to create the right treatment plan for each individual.

Who Benefits

  • The Adult Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at Lindner Center of HOPE benefits individuals, ages 18 and older, who are experiencing emotional or behavioral issues significant enough to affect daily functioning or quality of life. Patients may be suffering with diagnoses including, but not limited to:
  • Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Adjustment disorders
  • Thought disorders not requiring hospitalization, such as paranoia and hallucinations
  • Patients who need a more intensive, structured program than traditional outpatient visits can provide
  • Patients who may not require hospitalization, but who may benefit from hands-on intensive day-long therapy without requiring an overnight stay
  • Patients transitioning from hospitalization who need on-going, intensive care

Learn more about partial hospitalization for adults here.


Additional Therapies

Lindner Center of HOPE has successfully treated recurring and treatment-resistant (or treatment-refractory) mood disorders using safe, effective, FDA-approved protocols, such as the promising Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy or the widely used and highly successful Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). Both therapies are available at Lindner Center of HOPE’s Farmer Family Neuromodulation Center.

Who Benefits

  • Patients whose conditions have not responded to other therapies

Premier Assessment and Residential Treatment for Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Sibcy House at Lindner Center of HOPE is a specialized and enhanced, rich therapeutic residential environment offering comprehensive diagnostic assessment and residential treatment programs for individuals age 18 and older, suffering with complex, co-morbid mental health and addiction issues. A renowned, multi-disciplinary clinical team uses state-of-the science technology, evidence-based treatment modalities (including DBT and ERP)  and clinical expertise to accurately diagnose patients, create individualized treatment plans, and provide intensive treatment through individualized and group therapy to improve overall treatment trajectory.

Highlights of offerings:

  • 10-day Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment (Neuropsychological testing, sub-specialty evaluations and assessments and ongoing 24 hour observation with feedback and next steps; Neurological assessment and MRI as indicated)
  • Treatment Initiation– Individual and Group Therapy with foundation in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
  • Treatment Extension – Ongoing Individual and Group Therapy

WILLIAMS HOUSE at Lindner Center of HOPE offers an intimate and stabilizing residential environment for adults, age 18 and older, suffering with co-morbid mental health and addiction issues, who may benefit from psychiatric evaluation, cognitive work, medication adjustments/compliance, detox, observation and treatment initiation. The clinical team applies their expertise to facilitate stabilizing evaluation and next level of care recommendations.

Highlights of offerings:

  • 10-day Stabilizing Evaluation
  • Add-on Neuropsychological Testing and/or Treatment Initiation

Learn more about the assessment residential programs here.

Learn more about Bipolar Residential Treatment

Research Programs Bring Treatment to the Forefront

The Research Institute at Lindner Center of HOPE, in affiliation with the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Medicine, conducts research to better prevent, diagnose and treat common mental illnesses, including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Typically it can take up to 17 years before research findings become fully integrated into routine diagnostics and treatment. However, at Lindner Center of HOPE, research informs patient care each and every day.

That’s because two of the most frequently cited researchers in mood disorders and co-occurring conditions — Paul E. Keck, Jr., MD, CEO, and Susan L. McElroy, MD – have created a research-driven, landmark program for the successful treatment of mood disorders. Their team of clinical researchers has brought six pharmaceuticals to the market. Collectively, the team has published more than 800 research papers on the subject of mood disorders. They also work extensively with other leading research facilities around the country.

In addition, Lindner Center of HOPE is one of a handful of contributors to Mayo Clinic’s international Bipolar Biobank, a research resource that improves studies done on bipolar disorder. The Center is also one of ten sites chosen for a bipolar study granted by the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH).

Nationally and internationally regarded clinician-scientists at the Research Institute work in collaboration with top investigators at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and other leading academic research institutions around the country.

Our clinician-scientists have published over 800 scientific articles, received over $15 million in grants at UC, and $2 million in grants since opening. Lindner Center of HOPE researchers have been instrumental in bringing six new drugs to market for depression and bipolar disorder for improved therapeutic efficacy and safety.

As charter members of the National Network of Depression Centers (NNDC), the Research Institute at Lindner Center of HOPE plays a leading role in fostering breakthroughs in the field of mental health, while contributing to information sharing and rapid translation of new treatments into clinical settings of the network’s members nationwide.

In addition, the Research Institute is a member of the Harvard-based Clinical Trial Network.

Current Research Studies

Research in genetics, brain imaging, psychopharmacology and psychotherapy evidence provides new methods and treatments for even the most treatment resistant mood disorders. The staff closely integrates research studies into proven, multidisciplinary programs to benefit patients and further treatment. Patients interested in participating in specific studies apply through Lindner Center of HOPE.

Visit the Research Institute page for more information about current studies.

Global Experts in Mood Disorders Lead Treatment

Specialists at Lindner Center of HOPE are internationally recognized for their leading research, advanced training and proven results in identifying and treating basic and treatment resistant mood disorders.

Team members with extensive experience in treating mood disorders work collaboratively to accurately assess and treat a variety of mood disorders. They oversee:

  • Individually tailored treatment which combines Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Insight Oriented Therapy (IOT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to support patient recovery and long-term wellness
  • Family therapy, an inclusive approach to education and therapy designed to assist the patient and support the family
  • Psychiatric medication evaluation and treatment

Each patient’s multidisciplinary treatment team may also include the following healthcare professionals:

  • Primary Care Physicians
  • Masters or Doctoral-level Therapists and Psychology Interns
  • Social Work Staff
  • Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Mental Health Specialists
  • Employment Specialist
  • Spiritual Care Coordinator
  • Community Psychiatric Support Specialist

Lindner Center of HOPE Library: Resources for Mood Disorders

Are you ready to take the next step? Patients suffering from mood disorders and their families can use these resources to better understand the disorder and take the first steps toward treatment and recovery.


Suicide Prevention Hotline (877) 695-6333


DOWNLOADABLE EDUCATION SHEETS

Pediatric Symptoms Checklist
Emotional and physical health go together in children. Because parents are often the first to notice a problem with their child’s behavior, emotions or learning, parents may help children get the best care possible by answering these questions. (Source: © M.S. Jellinick and J.M. Murphy, Massachusetts General Hospital (http://psc.partners.org) English PSC Gouverneur Revisions 01-06-01)

Teen Suicide: Facts for Families
Learn the facts about teen suicide from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).

Major Depressive Episode: Fact Sheet
Learn the symptoms and signs of depression.

About Bipolar Disorder
Learn the facts about bipolar disorder.

5 Myths of Unipolar Sheet

Resources for Depressed Adolescents


WEB SITES

Adolescent Depression Awareness Program (ADAP)

American Psychological Association

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

National Institute of Mental Health: Depression

National Institute of Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder

My Mood Monitor™

A three minute assessment for anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder. My Mood Monitor™ Copyright © 2002-2010 by M3 Information™.

Mental Health Recovery Services of Warren & Clinton Counties (MHRS) – Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention Protocol

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

American Academy of Pediatrics

SAVE – Suicide Awareness Voices of Education

American Association of Suicidology (AAS)

Warren County Educational Service Center

dependentpersonalitydisorder.org

www.topcounselingschools.org/bipolar-disorders/


BOOKS

titles by Miklowitz


ARTICLES

What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling down. It is a significant mood disorder that needs to be treated before more serious problems develop.

Teen Depression: How Caregivers Can Help
Teen depression is a serious problem. Learn the signs of depression and how you can help a teenager you love.

Mood Disorders Afflict Adults and Children Alike
Mood disorders affect children, adolescents and adults. This article describes the symptoms of mood disorders, the differences between them in adults and children, and the universally prescribed treatments for both.

Depression Signs Go Beyond Typical Teen Behavior
Adolescents may experience ups and downs as they make the transition into adulthood. If a teen exhibits behaviors beyond typical moodiness, however, s/he may be suffering from adolescent depression.

Depression & mood disorders screening questions

Below is a brief self test that can help individuals determine if they need an evaluation for a mood disorder. However, only a licensed professional in a one-on-one setting can positively and properly diagnose a mood disorder or other mental health disorder.

Please answer yes or no to each of the following:

  • Do you have consistent feelings of sadness, loss of pleasure or hopelessness?
  • Do you feel consistently irritable or quick to anger?
  • Do you feel that life is not worth living or have thoughts to harm yourself?
  • Are you experiencing too little or too much sleep or do you feel you can do very well with only a few hours or less of sleep a night?
  • Have others told you that you are impulsive and make bad or risky decisions?
  • Do you experience you thoughts as moving too fast and jumpy and that others can’t keep up with your thinking?
  • Have you had periods of feeling so excited and confident that it felt almost euphoric? If so, did it last or happen frequently over a period of several days?
  • Is your work, school or family life negatively impacted by any of the above symptoms?

These questions are intended to help a person recognize if he or she may need an evaluation for a mood disorder. If you answered yes to any of the bolded items, these are indications of a serious mood disorder and you should seek professional assessment immediately. Additionally, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or if you believe you are struggling with a mood disorder, you may benefit from a professional assessment.