Bipolar disorder overview

Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating manic and depressive episodes. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but genetics, brain chemicals, and psychosocial factors may play a role. Treatment consists of medication combined with psychotherapy.

Bipolar disorder - also sometimes called manic depression, causes extreme changes in mood. People with this condition can go for weeks feeling great, then fall into a deep depression. Happy and sad times vary greatly from person to person.
Depressive episodes: If left untreated, people with bipolar disorder can experience episodes of severe depression. Symptoms include: sadness, anxiety, loss of energy, hopelessness and difficulty concentrating, or loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. Weight gain or loss, sleeping too much or too little, and even thinking about suicide are also very common signs. Manic phase: The person feels full of energy and thinks he can do anything. Self-esteem spikes out of control and they can hardly sit still. They talk more, are easily distracted, constantly thinking, and don't get enough sleep. This condition often leads to behaviors such as profligate spending, cheating, fast driving, and substance abuse. A manic episode is defined as having more than 3 of the above symptoms, occurring every day, lasting for a week and accompanied by intense feelings of euphoria.

There are 2 types of bipolar disorder, they are:
Bipolar I disorder: The person has a full manic episode for at least 1 week, then experiences a separate depressive episode. Bipolar II disorder: The person will experience episodes of major depression, but no distinct manic episodes. Their mania is low-grade, less intense, and may last for less than a week. At this point the person feels fine, although family and friends notice a change in their mood. When people with bipolar disorder have depressive and manic symptoms at the same time or very closely together, it is called a mixed episode. This can lead to unpredictable behavior, such as putting yourself in danger when you feel hopeless, suicidal, or energized and agitated. Mixed mood episodes may be more common in women and those who develop bipolar disorder at a young age.

Doctors still don't know exactly what causes bipolar disorder. Current theories suggest that the disease arises due to a combination of genetic and biological as well as environmental factors. Meanwhile, some scientists suggest that brain circuits involved in regulating mood, energy, thinking and circadian rhythms of people with bipolar disorder may be functioning abnormally, leading to mood changes and other symptoms of the disease.
Both men and women are at risk for bipolar disorder. In most cases, symptoms usually begin between the ages of 15 and 30, rarely appearing in childhood. The condition can sometimes run down the generations in families, affecting a few but not all members of the family.

If left unchecked, bipolar disorder can affect many aspects of life, including work, relationships, sleep, health, and money. Worse, it can lead to a number of risky behaviors, causing stress for those who care about you because they don't know how to help or don't understand what's going on.
Dangerous behavior Many people with bipolar disorder get into drugs or alcohol. They may drink alcohol or abuse drugs to relieve unpleasant symptoms caused by mood swings. Substance abuse is also common during manic episodes, when recklessness and pleasure are high.
Suicidal thoughts Patients with bipolar disorder are 10 to 20 times more likely to commit suicide than others. Warning signs include: talking about suicide, making arrangements, and doing very risky things. If you know someone who is at risk or planning to commit suicide, call the hotline number or get them to the emergency room right away.

First, it is necessary to rule out other causes of mood instability, including side effects of certain medications. The doctor will examine the patient's health and ask questions, order tests if necessary. Relatives may also be invited to talk to the doctor to better understand the patient's changes in mood and behavior over time. Psychiatrists usually make a diagnosis after a careful review of all examination findings.
Medication Some prescription medications for bipolar disorder include: mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. When people are not in a manic or depressive episode, people often take maintenance medication to avoid a relapse.
Talk therapy Psychotherapy can help people keep taking their medication as prescribed and take control of their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on reframing thoughts and behaviors caused by mood swings. Individual interaction therapy aims to reduce relationship tension caused by bipolar disorder. Social therapy helps people develop and maintain daily routines.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) This is done while the patient is under general anesthesia and asleep. Electroconvulsive therapy, which uses an electrical current to induce seizures in the brain, can rapidly improve the mood symptoms of bipolar disorder. This is one of the fastest ways to relieve severe symptoms. ECT is often a safe and effective treatment option for severe mood episodes when medication is no longer effective.

Building good daily habits won't cure bipolar disorder, but will ensure you get enough sleep, eat regular meals, and exercise. Avoid alcohol and stimulants as they can make symptoms worse. If you have bipolar disorder, you should find out what your “red flags” are. This sign shows that a dangerous situation is about to happen and you must have a plan to get help as soon as possible.
If you have bipolar disorder, you might consider talking to those closest to you for help managing your condition. Try to explain how the illness is affecting you and what you need. With their support, you can feel more cared for and motivated to stick with your treatment plan.
Many people with bipolar disorder don't realize they have a problem or refuse to help. If you think a friend or family member has this condition, encourage them to see a doctor or mental health professional for review and treatment initiation. Don't forget to pay attention to their feelings and remember that this illness requires a professional diagnosis. Whether it's bipolar disorder or another mental illness, professional treatment is helpful.

Reference source: webmd.com