Bipolar Disorder
Introduction
The mental health disease known as bipolar disorder, which was originally known as manic-depressive illness or manic depression, is a mood disorder that lasts a lifetime and is characterized by significant swings in mood, energy levels, thought patterns, and behavior. Your capacity to carry out day-to-day tasks may be disrupted as a result of these shifts, which may persist for hours, days, weeks, or even months.
There are a few different types of bipolar illness, and each of them is characterized by dramatic shifts in mood that are referred to as hypomanic/manic and depressed episodes. On the other hand, those who suffer from bipolar disorder do not constantly experience hypomanic, manic, or depressed states. Additionally, they go through phases of euthymia, which is characterized by a normal mood.
Causes
Bipolar disorder’s precise cause is uncertain. Its onset, course, and results may be influenced by a number of biological (e.g., genetic), psychological, social, and structural elements. Bipolar disorder symptoms can be brought on by unfavorable situations or life-changing events. These could involve relationship dissolution, assault, or loss. Bipolar disorder’s onset and course can also be impacted by drug or alcohol usage. For those with bipolar disorder, work can be protective even though it can also be a source of stress. Employment can aid in recovery by enhancing functioning, lowering symptoms, and resulting in a better quality of life and increased self-esteem when conducted in a supportive environment with appropriate accommodations.
Symptoms
The hallmark of bipolar disorder is mood fluctuations that range from extreme to extreme. A man who is having a manic episode is in a very high mood and has a lot of energy (feeling very pleased, energetic, and overactive). They might experience exhilaration, abrupt mood swings, or an overabundance of emotion (uncontrollably laughing or feeling less than normal levels of irritability, agitation, or restlessness). Drug or alcohol abuse might exacerbate the moods. Along with mood and activity changes, manic episodes can also be characterized by additional symptoms, such as:
Depressive Episode
- Depressive symptoms include feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, and sadness.
- Anger, restlessness, irritation, self-loathing, and unwarranted guilt are all possible.
- Activities you used to like may no longer pique your interest or bring you as much delight.
- You might stop being active and distance yourself from people.
- You might always feel exhausted. Going to sleep could be challenging. You might struggle to get to sleep, stay asleep, sleep too much, or not at all. It could be hard to focus, make choices, or recall things.
Significant changes in appetite and weight gain or loss are possible outcomes.
Suicide risk is significant in those with bipolar disorder. People who are depressed may constantly think about dying, feel suicidal, or want to hurt other people. If such symptoms appear, you should phone emergency medical services (usually 911) or visit the nearest hospital emergency room.
Manic Episode
Bipolar disorder’s manic phase elicits strong emotions that might vary from elation and excessive happiness to unexpected anger and poor temper control. You might not need much sleep and feel energized and hyperactive. You might feel unstoppable or like you can do anything, and your mind might be racing. You can have extravagant illusions that you are gifted or have connections to God or renowned people.
Your actions could become extremely dangerous; for instance, you might drive carelessly, go on shopping sprees, or have perilous sexual encounters. Bipolar disorder’s sudden and erratic mood changes can lead to arguments with your partner, family, and friends. It may lead to issues at work, school, or with the law. Your entire life may be disrupted by bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
A general practitioner (GP) will refer you to a mental health expert (psychiatrist) if they believe you may have bipolar disorder or another mental illness. Your moods, behavior, health, and family history are among the questions the mental health specialist may ask you. Because bipolar disorder affects people differently and has symptoms that are similar to those of other mental health conditions, diagnosing it might take some time. It can be helpful for your spouse or loved ones to provide information.
Treatment
The majority of cases of bipolar disorder are effectively treatable. It is possible that you will receive the following treatments:
- There are medications that support mood stabilization. You may require lifelong treatment for bipolar illness, which is a recurring condition. Even if you feel better, it’s crucial to keep taking your prescription.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other talking therapies
- Psychotherapy can assist you in resolving conflicts and repairing relationships. Family members and loved ones may also benefit from going to therapy. Therapy may treat children and educate them on how to be part of the healing process.
While some drugs should only be taken when symptoms worsen, others must be taken regularly. There could be negative effects from the drugs. These will vary depending on the drug you take and how your body responds to it. Your appointments will usually be at a clinic, hospital, or general practitioner’s office. If doctors think you are at risk of suicide, self-harm, or harming someone else, they may need you to stay in the hospital or receive crisis team treatment at home.
