The depressive side of bipolar disorder can be the hardest and longest-lasting part, and it needs a different approach than ordinary depression. With the right, carefully managed treatment, the lows can lift and stability becomes possible.
Bipolar depression is the low phase of bipolar disorder, the periods of deep, persistent depression that alternate with episodes of mania or hypomania. For most people with bipolar disorder, these depressive episodes are the most frequent and disabling part of the condition, and they're often mistaken for ordinary depression.
Getting the diagnosis right matters, because bipolar depression is treated differently. Standard antidepressants alone can sometimes trigger mania, so care centers on mood stabilization under close psychiatric supervision. When depression persists despite that, advanced treatments like TMS, Spravato, or ketamine can help, always managed carefully alongside a mood stabilizer.
If several of these fit, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward the right treatment.
Treatment centers on mood stabilization, with advanced options added under close psychiatric oversight.
A careful, systematic medication strategy overseen by a board-certified psychiatrist.
Explore Medication Management →An FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, given under supervision and covered by most major plans.
Explore Spravato →Fast-acting infusions for depression that hasn't responded to other treatments, with relief often felt within days.
Explore IV Ketamine →Non-invasive magnetic stimulation of the brain's mood-regulating regions. FDA-cleared, no medication, covered by most major plans.
Explore TMS →Your treatment plan is directed by a board-certified psychiatrist, so your care is grounded in medical training, not a one-size-fits-all protocol.
The region voted us Best Psychiatrist in 2023, a reflection of the trust patients and families place in our team.
Therapy, medication, and advanced treatments under one roof in St. George and Cedar City, plus telehealth across Utah.
Dr. Hendleman founded Better Balance Psychiatry to bring advanced, evidence-based care to southern Utah. He specializes in treatment-resistant depression, trauma in uniformed service members, and advanced treatments including TMS, Spravato, and IV ketamine.
Learn MoreBipolar depression is the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, which also includes episodes of mania or hypomania. It's treated differently because standard antidepressants alone can sometimes trigger mania, so mood stabilization is central.
In some people, antidepressants taken without a mood stabilizer can trigger manic or mixed episodes. That's why an accurate diagnosis and psychiatrist-led care are so important for bipolar depression.
Care centers on mood stabilization and careful medication management. When depression persists, advanced options such as TMS, Spravato, and ketamine can help, always managed alongside a mood stabilizer under psychiatric supervision.
Yes. With the right medication, monitoring, and support, many people with bipolar disorder achieve lasting stability and lead full, productive lives.
No referral is required. You can contact us directly for an evaluation in St. George, Cedar City, or by telehealth across Utah.
Schedule a confidential consultation. We'll take the time to understand the full picture and build a plan that treats the lows safely. No referral required.
In-person care in St. George and Cedar City · Telehealth across Utah
