Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that causes extreme changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. It is characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression. These episodes can last for several weeks or months at a time.
Symptoms
During a manic episode, a person with bipolar disorder may experience symptoms such as:
- Extremely high energy levels
- Reduced need for sleep
- Impulsive or risky behavior
- Racing thoughts and rapid speech
- Difficulty concentrating
During a depressed episode, a person with bipolar disorder may experience symptoms such as:
- Extreme sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
Bipolar disorder can also cause other symptoms such as:
- Hallucinations or delusions (during a manic episode)
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Difficulty functioning at home, work, or school
What causes bipolar disorder
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but it is likely a combination of genetic, environmental, and brain chemistry factors.
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, which suggests that there may be a genetic component to the condition. However, not everyone with a family history of bipolar disorder will develop the condition, so other factors are also likely to be involved.
Environmental factors, such as stress, trauma, and drug or alcohol abuse, may also play a role in the development of bipolar disorder.
Other possible contributing factors to the development of bipolar disorder include:
- Brain structure and function: Some studies have suggested that abnormalities in certain brain structures or the way that certain chemicals function in the brain may be involved in the development of bipolar disorder.
- Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, may trigger episodes of mania or depression.
- Sleep patterns: Disruptions to the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, such as those caused by shift work or jet lag, may trigger episodes of mania or depression.
Types of bipolar disorder
There are several types of bipolar disorder, including:
- Bipolar I disorder: This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by at least one episode of mania and may also include episodes of depression.
- Bipolar II disorder: This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by at least one episode of hypomania (a less severe form of mania) and at least one episode of depression.
- Cyclothymic disorder: This type of bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of hypomania and depression, but the symptoms are not as severe as in bipolar I or II disorder.
- Other types: There are several other types of bipolar disorder, including rapid cycling bipolar disorder (four or more episodes of mania or depression within a year) and mixed episode bipolar disorder (symptoms of mania and depression occurring at the same time).
Who’s affected
Bipolar disorder can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. However, certain factors may increase a person’s risk of developing the disorder. These risk factors include:
- Family history: Having a parent or close relative with bipolar disorder can increase a person’s risk of developing the disorder.
- History of abuse: People who have experienced abuse or trauma, particularly during childhood, may be more likely to develop bipolar disorder.
- Substance abuse: Substance abuse, particularly alcohol abuse, has been linked to an increased risk of bipolar disorder.
- Chronic stress: Chronic stress, such as that caused by a difficult job or a traumatic event, may increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as sleep disorders, hypothyroidism, or brain injury, may increase a person’s risk of developing bipolar disorder.
Diagnosing bipolar disorder
To diagnose bipolar disorder, a healthcare professional will typically:
- Conduct a physical exam and ask about your medical history.
- Ask about your symptoms, including how long you have had them and how severe they are.
- Ask about your family history, as bipolar disorder tends to run in families.
- Use a diagnostic tool, such as the Mood Disorder Questionnaire or the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, to help determine a diagnosis.
It’s important to note that only a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or mental health professional, can diagnose bipolar disorder.
Treating bipolar disorder
There are several treatment options for bipolar disorder, including medications and therapy. The treatment plan will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual.
Medications:
- Mood stabilizers: These medications help to even out mood swings and can prevent future episodes of mania or depression. Examples include lithium, valproic acid, and lamotrigine.
- Antipsychotics: These medications can help to reduce the severity of manic episodes. Examples include olanzapine and quetiapine.
- Antidepressants: These medications can help to improve symptoms of depression. It is important to note that antidepressants should not be used alone to treat bipolar disorder, as they can trigger manic episodes.
Therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps to change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT): This type of therapy helps individuals with bipolar disorder to regulate their daily routines and improve their relationships with others.
- Family-focused therapy: This type of therapy helps to improve communication and relationships within the family unit.
Complications of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder can lead to a number of complications if it is not properly managed. These complications may include:
- Difficulty with relationships: Bipolar disorder can strain relationships with loved ones and make it difficult to maintain friendships and romantic partnerships.
- Poor job performance: The extreme mood swings associated with bipolar disorder can make it difficult to concentrate and be productive at work.
- Substance abuse: Some people with bipolar disorder may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the symptoms of their condition, which can lead to addiction and further complications.
- Legal problems: Manic episodes can lead to reckless and impulsive behavior, which may result in legal issues.
- Health problems: Bipolar disorder can lead to physical health problems as a result of unhealthy lifestyle choices or the side effects of medications.
- Suicidal thoughts and behavior: People with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. It is important to take any thoughts of suicide seriously and seek help immediately.
Preventing bipolar disorder
There is no known way to prevent bipolar disorder, as the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood. However, there are things that may help to reduce the risk of developing bipolar disorder or reduce the severity of the condition. These include:
- Getting treatment for other mental health conditions: Treating conditions such as depression or anxiety may help to prevent the development of bipolar disorder.
- Managing stress: Learning healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress may help to reduce the risk of developing bipolar disorder or prevent the condition from worsening.
- Getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Exercise and a healthy lifestyle may help to improve overall mental health and reduce the risk of developing bipolar disorder.
- Seeking support: Having a supportive network of friends and loved ones can be beneficial for managing bipolar disorder and preventing the condition from worsening.
- It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.