Overview
Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a complex mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
During depressive episodes, individuals may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Conversely, during manic or hypomanic episodes, they may feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable. These mood fluctuations can significantly impact sleep, energy levels, decision-making, behavior, and cognitive clarity.
Bipolar disorder episodes may occur infrequently or multiple times a year. Some individuals may experience emotional symptoms between episodes, while others may not.
While bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it can be effectively managed with a comprehensive treatment plan. Typically, treatment involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
Symptoms
Bipolar and related disorders can manifest in various ways, each with its own set of symptoms causing distress and difficulties in daily life:
- Bipolar I disorder: Characterized by at least one manic episode, which may be followed or preceded by hypomanic or major depressive episodes. In some cases, mania may lead to psychosis.
- Bipolar II disorder: Involves at least one major depressive episode and one hypomanic episode but no full-blown manic episodes.
- Cyclothymic disorder: Consists of frequent periods of hypomania symptoms and periods of less severe depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years (or one year in children and teenagers).
- Other types: Include bipolar and related disorders triggered by certain substances, alcohol, or medical conditions like Cushing’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Bipolar II disorder should not be confused with a milder form of bipolar I disorder; it is a distinct diagnosis. Individuals with bipolar II disorder may experience longer periods of depression, leading to significant impairment.
Bipolar disorder is commonly diagnosed during the teenage years or early 20s, although it can occur at any age. Symptoms can vary among individuals and may change over time.
Mania and Hypomania
Both mania and hypomania episodes share similar symptoms, but mania is more severe and disruptive to daily functioning. Mania may lead to problems at work, school, social activities, and relationships, and it may require hospitalization. Symptoms of both episodes include:
- Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired
- Increased activity, energy, or agitation
- Exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence (euphoria)
- Decreased need for sleep
- Unusual talkativeness
- Racing thoughts
- Distractibility
- Poor decision-making (e.g., excessive spending, risky behavior)
Major Depressive Episode
A major depressive episode is characterized by severe symptoms that significantly hinder day-to-day activities, such as work, school, and relationships. Symptoms may include:
- Depressed mood, feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities
- Changes in appetite and weight (weight loss or gain)
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Restlessness or slowed behavior
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Other Features of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I and bipolar II disorders may present additional features, such as anxious distress, melancholy, psychosis, mixed or rapid cycling episodes, and seasonal changes in
Diagnosis
To determine if you have bipolar disorder, a comprehensive evaluation may be conducted, which includes:
- Physical exam: A doctor may perform a physical exam and lab tests to rule out any medical conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms.
- Psychiatric assessment: A psychiatrist will engage in discussions with you regarding your thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Psychological self-assessments or questionnaires might also be used, and input from family or friends may be sought.
- Mood charting: Keeping a daily record of moods, sleep patterns, and other relevant factors can aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Criteria for bipolar disorder: Symptoms will be compared with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association.
Diagnosis in Children
Diagnosing bipolar disorder in children and teenagers involves similar criteria to those used for adults. However, symptoms in younger individuals may exhibit different patterns and may not fit neatly into specific diagnostic categories.
Additionally, children with bipolar disorder often have coexisting mental health conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or behavior problems, which can complicate the diagnosis. Seeking help from a child psychiatrist experienced in bipolar disorder is recommended in such cases.
Treatment
Effective treatment for bipolar disorder is best overseen by a psychiatrist specializing in mental health conditions. A treatment team might also include a psychologist, social worker, and psychiatric nurse.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, and the primary goal of treatment is symptom management. Treatment may involve:
- Medications: Mood-stabilizing medications are often prescribed to manage manic or hypomanic episodes. Examples include lithium, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine. Antipsychotics and antidepressants may also be used in some cases.
- Continued treatment: Lifelong maintenance with medications is typically necessary, even during periods of symptom improvement. Skipping maintenance treatment can increase the risk of relapse or worsen mood fluctuations.
- Day treatment programs: These programs can provide support and counseling while assisting with symptom control.
- Substance abuse treatment: For individuals with alcohol or drug problems, addressing substance abuse is essential for effectively managing bipolar disorder.
- Hospitalization: In severe cases where there is a risk of harm to oneself or others, hospitalization might be recommended to stabilize mood and ensure safety.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a critical component of bipolar disorder treatment and can be delivered in individual, family, or group settings. Some helpful therapeutic approaches include:
- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on establishing stable daily rhythms, including sleep, waking times, and meals, to better manage moods and reduce stress.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Aims to identify and replace negative beliefs and behaviors with positive ones, providing strategies for stress management and coping with difficult situations.
- Psychoeducation: Educating individuals and their families about bipolar disorder can facilitate better support, relapse prevention, and adherence to treatment plans.
- Family-focused therapy: Involving family members can aid in treatment adherence and help recognize and manage mood swing warning signs.
Treatment in Children and Teenagers
Treatment for children and teenagers with bipolar disorder is typically individualized based on symptoms, medication tolerability, and other factors. The treatment may include:
- Medications: Children and teens with bipolar disorder are often prescribed similar medications as adults. However, research on the safety and effectiveness of these medications in younger individuals is limited.
- Psychotherapy: Ongoing therapy can assist in symptom management, address learning difficulties, handle social challenges, and provide support for substance abuse issues that may arise in older children and teens.
- Psychoeducation: Informing young patients and their families about bipolar disorder helps with understanding and providing appropriate support.
- Support: Involving teachers, school counselors, family, and friends can help identify necessary services and promote success.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Several lifestyle changes can help individuals manage bipolar disorder:
- Quit drinking or using recreational drugs: Avoiding risky behaviors and substance abuse is essential in managing bipolar disorder.
- Form healthy relationships: Surrounding yourself with a positive support system can help identify mood shifts and provide necessary assistance.
- Create a healthy routine: Establishing regular sleep, eating, and physical activity patterns can help stabilize moods. Consult a doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
- Check before taking other medications: Always consult the treating doctor before using other medications or supplements to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
- Consider keeping a mood chart: Monitoring daily moods, treatments, and feelings can assist in identifying triggers and effective treatment options.
Alternative Medicine
While research on alternative or complementary medicine for bipolar disorder is limited, some individuals may explore these options alongside conventional treatment. Precautions to take include:
- Don’t stop prescribed medications or skip therapy sessions: Alternative medicine is not a replacement for standard medical care in bipolar disorder treatment.
- Be honest with healthcare professionals: Inform your doctors and mental health professionals about any alternative or complementary treatments you are using or considering.
- Be aware of potential dangers: Understand the risks and possible interactions with prescribed medications before trying alternative or complementary medicine.
Coping and Support
Coping with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but several strategies can help:
- Learn about bipolar disorder: Understanding the condition empowers individuals to adhere to treatment plans and identify mood changes.
