Bipolar Disorder
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These shifts can affect energy levels, activity, judgment, and the ability to function in daily life. The mood swings can last days, weeks, or even months.
Types of Bipolar Disorder:
This type involves severe manic episodes lasting at least seven days or manic symptoms that are so severe they require hospitalization. Depressive episodes often follow and typically last at least two weeks.
People with bipolar II experience patterns of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are less intense than full-blown mania. However, the depressive episodes can be equally severe as those in bipolar I.
Cyclothymia involves periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that last for at least two years (one year in children and adolescents), but the symptoms are less severe than in bipolar I or II.
Sometimes, bipolar symptoms do not fit neatly into the above categories. These cases are referred to as “other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders.”
Key Symptoms:
Manic or Hypomanic Episodes:
- Increased energy, activity, or restlessness
- Euphoric or overly irritable mood
- Racing thoughts and rapid speech
- Decreased need for sleep
- Risky behavior, such as impulsive spending or unsafe activities
Depressive Episodes:
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Treatment:
Bipolar disorder is typically treated with a combination of medication (such as mood stabilizers) and psychotherapy. Proper management can help individuals maintain more stable moods and reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes.