What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) is a mental health condition that causes significant mood swings. Bipolar disorder involves alternating periods of mania and depression, with varying frequency of mood swings among individuals. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 40 million people worldwide live with this condition.
People with bipolar I disorder often experience periods of high energy, known as manic episodes, which can typically last about a week. These are followed by periods of feeling very low and hopeless, known as depressive episodes, which can last for about two weeks.
Sometimes, people with Bipolar I disorder must receive hospital treatment during prolonged episodes of mania.
People with bipolar II disorder have similar behavioral patterns to those with bipolar I disorder. The main difference is that people with bipolar II disorder have milder mood swings.
Individuals with bipolar II disorder typically do not require hospital treatment.
Cyclothymic disorder is described as less intense mood swings. People with this disorder experience mood swings that do not meet the criteria for a full manic-depressive episode.
Not everyone who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder will fall under these specific categories.
Often, bipolar disorder is diagnosed in the adolescent ages into early adulthood. With a well-formulated treatment plan, most individuals can enjoy a high quality of life.
Bipolar disorder exhibits symptoms for both manic and depressive episodes. Below are the most common symptoms seen in a person with bipolar disorder:
Manic Episodes
- Feeling jittery or energized
- Racing thoughts
- Easily distracted
- Feeling very happy, excited, or highly irritable
- Decreased need for sleep
- Talking extremely fast with an endless amount of ideas
- Feeling very important or powerful
Depressive Episodes
- Extreme indecision
- Finding it difficult to do simple things
- Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much
- Overwhelming guilt
- Feeling hopeless
- Sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
- Feeling down, sad, or anxious
- Thoughts about suicide
If a person exhibits symptoms of heightened energy and compromised decision-making, they may require hospitalization.
Risk Factors Associated with Bipolar Disorder
Scientists have studied what causes bipolar disorder. They think that brain structure and function and our genetic composition can make bipolar disorder more likely.
Brain Structure and Function. Research indicates that people with bipolar disorder may have unique brain differences. This discovery offers hope for better understanding and treatment.
Understanding these brain variances may help scientists comprehend bipolar disorder better and identify the most effective treatments.
Genetics. Some research suggests that certain genes may make people more likely to develop bipolar disorder. Many genes are involved, and no single gene causes the disorder.
Having a family history of bipolar disorder can help you understand and manage your own mental health.
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Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder treatment typically involves a combination of medication and multiple types of therapy.
Finding the right therapy model can help patients achieve healthier coping skills and support problem-solving during manic or depressive episodes.
CBT is an important treatment for depression. People with bipolar disorder can use different methods to change their behavior through CBT. Some example strategies are:
- Learn what might trigger a manic episode and how to avoid it.
- Learn ways to calm the mind and relax the body.
- Role-play to prepare for potentially complex interactions with other people.
- Learn to develop more confidence in one’s abilities.
IPSRT aims to stabilize the individual’s lifestyle. The ‘interpersonal’ aspect focuses on fostering safe, healthy relationships, while the ‘social rhythms’ aspect emphasizes setting a consistent daily routine.
The use of medication to treat bipolar disorder depends on the patient’s needs.
Some patients do well with mood stabilizers. Others may need both antidepressants and antipsychotics.
Talking with your doctor can help you find the right mix of medications. Common medications for bipolar disorder include:
- aripiprazole (Abilify)
- lamotrigine (Lamictal)
- carbamazepine (Tegretol XR)
- valproate (Depakote)
- lurasidone (Latuda)
- olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- quetiapine (Seroquel)
- risperidone (Risperdal)
Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder can be overwhelming, but it does not have to be a life sentence.
Our personalized approach to treatment allows you to determine which therapies and medications best support your needs for a fulfilled life.
Find Bipolar Disorder Treatment in New Jersey Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder, our team of specialists is ready to help you find a long-term treatment plan that promotes a productive and balanced lifestyle.
Blue Star Recovery is prepared to help you walk your best path today. Contact us now to learn about our dual diagnosis and bipolar disorder treatment programs.
References:
- World Health Organization (WHO): Bipolar disorder
- American Psychological Association: What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy: an intervention addressing rhythm dysregulation in bipolar disorder
- National Institute of Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder
