Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder defined by significant and intense mood swings, encompassing manic episodes—periods of feeling extremely "up," elated, irritable, or highly energized—and depressive episodes—times of feeling "down," sad, indifferent, or hopeless. Individuals may also experience mixed episodes, where both manic and depressive symptoms occur simultaneously. Beyond these mood shifts, bipolar disorder also affects behavior, energy levels, and overall activity, and was historically referred to as manic depression or manic-depressive disorder.

TYPES OF BIPOLAR DISORDER:

There are three primary classifications of bipolar disorder:

  • Bipolar I Disorder: Involves manic episodes lasting at least seven days or those severe enough to require immediate hospitalization. Depressive episodes, often lasting two weeks or more, are also common. Mixed episodes can occur with this type.

  • Bipolar II Disorder: Features depressive episodes alongside hypomanic episodes, which are less severe forms of mania.

  • Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Includes both hypomanic and depressive symptoms, but these are less intense and shorter-lasting than full hypomanic or depressive episodes. Symptoms typically persist for at least two years in adults and one year in children and teenagers.

Experiencing four or more episodes of mania or depression within a year is referred to as "rapid cycling."

CAUSES OF BIPOLAR DISORDER:

The precise cause of bipolar disorder is not yet known. However, it's believed that several factors contribute, including genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental influences.

SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER:

The symptoms of bipolar disorder are varied but revolve around distinct mood episodes:

  • Manic Episode Symptoms can include:

    • Feeling exceptionally "up," "high," or elated.

    • Feeling jumpy, wired, or more active than usual.

    • Having a very short temper or appearing extremely irritable.

    • Experiencing racing thoughts and speaking very rapidly.

    • Needing less sleep than usual.

    • Feeling unusually important, talented, or powerful.

    • Engaging in risky behaviors that show poor judgment, such as excessive eating or drinking, spending large amounts of money impulsively, or engaging in reckless sexual activity.

  • Depressive Episode Symptoms can include:

    • Feeling profoundly sad, hopeless, or worthless.

    • Feeling lonely or withdrawing from social contact.

    • Speaking very slowly, feeling like you have nothing to say, or experiencing significant forgetfulness.

    • Having very little energy.

    • Sleeping excessively.

    • Eating too much or too little.

    • Lacking interest in usual activities and finding even simple tasks difficult.

    • Having thoughts of death or suicide.

  • Mixed Episode Symptoms combine both manic and depressive symptoms simultaneously. For example, you might feel intensely sad, empty, or hopeless, while at the same time experiencing extreme energy.