What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Previously known as manic depression, Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness marked by severe fluctuations in mood which range from high (mania or hypomania) to low (depression) states.
In depressive phases, individuals might feel overwhelmed with sadness or hopelessness, losing interest in most activities. Conversely, during mania or hypomania phases (the latter being a less severe form), individuals may experience feelings of euphoria, excessive energy, or irritability. These drastic mood changes can disrupt sleep, energy levels, behavior, and the clarity of thought.
The frequency of these episodes can vary, happening several times a year or very seldom. Some may not experience any significant emotional symptoms in between episodes. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong challenge, but it is possible to control mood swings and other symptoms by adhering to a structured treatment regimen, usually involving medication and psychotherapy.
Different Forms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I involves at least one episode of mania, which might be surrounded by periods of hypomanic or major depressive episodes. The defining feature, however, is the occurrence of at least one manic episode.
Bipolar II is defined by a cycle of depressive and hypomanic episodes, lacking the severe manic episodes observed in Bipolar I.
Manic and Hypomanic Episodes
Experiencing these episodes can deeply affect individuals: Mania involves not just an elevated mood but an intense and often disruptive overactivity, leading to impulsive decisions. These episodes typically last a week or more.
Hypomania, a less severe form of mania, brings about heightened productivity and positivity. Though less intense, this state still presents its challenges and could lead up to or follow a major depressive episode.
Depression within this context is more than transient sadness; it is an encompassing low that significantly affects one’s life, lasting weeks.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Manic and Hypomanic Episodes share symptoms but vary in intensity. Mania can result in significant issues in daily functioning and may lead to hospitalization if reality is lost. Common signs include minimal sleep need, inflated self-esteem, rapid thought or speech, risky behavior, and overactivity.
Depressive Episodes significantly impair daily function and involve symptoms like enduring sadness, suicidal ideation, extreme fatigue, changed sleep or appetite, concentration issues, self-depreciation, or unexplained physical symptoms.
Other aspects of bipolar disorder may involve additional features like anxiety, melancholy, or psychosis. Symptoms might also present differently in children and teens, often making diagnosis challenging.
Causes and risk factors include genetic predispositions, brain structure and function variances, environmental triggers, hormonal imbalances, and the impact of medication or substance use.
Treatment and Management
Medication is vital for mood stabilization, with mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs frequently used.
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, notably Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), alongside family-focused therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and psychoeducation, supports management when combined with medication.
Lifestyle Adjustments, like maintaining a stable sleep schedule, avoiding substances, practicing stress management, and engaging in regular exercise, play a critical role in managing symptoms.
Mood Monitoring through keeping a detailed diary can unveil patterns and triggers, aiding in early intervention and potentially preventing severe episodes.
Arrowhead Health & Wellness LLC is dedicated to the compassionate and thorough management of bipolar disorder and associated conditions, grounded in an in-depth knowledge and empathetic care approach.