Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood. Those with it may experience a range of mental health changes associated with behavior and thinking, as well as alterations in their energy levels and sleep patterns. The condition affects millions of adults in the country. Bipolar disorder needs to be diagnosed and addressed at the earliest possible time so one can carry out day-to-day tasks without it affecting one’s personal and professional life.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of the mental health complications has yet to be determined. Experts believe people are at higher risk if they have a family history of bipolar disorder. Other potential trigger factors include a traumatic event and following an unhealthy lifestyle. Further, it is believed that differences in brain structure and function may also play a role in bipolar disorder.
Types
There are various types of bipolar disorder, and the symptoms may cause changes in mood and behavior. This could lead to distress and difficulty in life. A few types are mentioned below:
- An individual might be affected by bipolar I disorder if they have had at least one manic episode that may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes.
- People with bipolar II disorder may have had at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode but never experienced a manic episode.
- A cyclothymic disorder is when an individual has had it for at least two years (or one year in children and teenagers) with many periods of hypomania and depressive symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder may differ based on the type of episode one experiences. Those who experience manic and hypomanic episodes may notice three or more of these symptoms:
- Feeling abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired
- Experiencing a decreased need for sleep
- Being unusually talkative
- Having racing thoughts
- Feeling distracted
- Making poor decisions
The signs of a major depressive episode include symptoms that are severe enough to cause noticeable difficulty in day-to-day activities. An episode may include these symptoms:
- Marked loss of interest or feeling no pleasure in all (or almost all) activities
- Depressed mood, such as feeling empty, sad, hopeless, or tearful
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue
- Restlessness or slowed behavior
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional may conduct a series of tests to determine if an individual has bipolar disorder. These include the following:
- A physical exam and lab tests might help identify health problems that are causing the symptoms.
- A psychiatric assessment could help one talk about their thoughts, behavior patterns, and feelings, providing more insight into the individual’s symptoms.
- A mood charting test requires the patient to record their mood, sleep patterns, and other factors that may help diagnose and find the proper treatment.
Treatment
A psychiatrist usually recommends treatment for bipolar disorder. One may also work with a treatment team, which includes a psychologist, social worker, and psychiatric nurse. Since bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, its treatments may help manage symptoms. One might need to take prescriptions to cope with the disorder. Additionally, the expert may recommend a day treatment program where one will receive the support and counseling needed to get the symptoms under control. Ultimately, bipolar disorder is a serious health condition that must be addressed as soon as possible.
