Bipolar disorder – formerly known as manic depression – is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that can disrupt a person’s daily life, work, and relationships. These mood swings can range from intense euphoria and hyperactivity (mania or hypomania) to profound sadness and hopelessness (depression). While managing bipolar disorder can be challenging, individuals can lead fulfilling lives with proper treatment and support.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder causes significant shifts in mood, energy levels, and thinking patterns. The National Institute of Mental Health states that these fluctuations can profoundly impact a person’s day-to-day life, making treatment and a great support system essential.

Bipolar disorder is classified into three primary types:

1. Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by at least one manic episode lasting at least seven days, often accompanied by depressive episodes lasting two weeks or more.
2. Bipolar II Disorder: Involves a pattern of hypomanic and major depressive episodes, where hypomanic episodes are less severe than manic episodes but are still often disruptive.
3. Cyclothymic Disorder: A milder form marked by numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don’t meet full criteria for either episode.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

The exact cause of bipolar disorder remains unknown; however, it is believed to stem from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Research shows a family history of bipolar disorder significantly increases the risk of developing it, while environmental stressors such as trauma or chronic stress also likely play a role.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Experts identify the hallmark symptom of bipolar disorder as the presence of extreme mood swings, which can manifest as:

• Mania or Hypomania: Periods of elevated mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, and impulsive behavior.
• Depression: Episodes characterized by sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep and appetite.

Additional symptoms can include changes in concentration, sleep patterns, energy levels, speech, impulsivity, and/or risk-taking behavior. In the most severe manic states, someone may experience psychosis, or hallucinations/delusions.

Understanding and Treating Different Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder is characterized by the National Institute of Mental Health as manic episodes that last at least 7 days or by manic symptoms so severe the person experiencing symptoms needs immediate medical care.

Treatment for Bipolar I Disorder:

• Mood Stabilizers: Medications can help regulate mood swings and prevent future disruptive episodes. Some mood stabilizers reduce the risk of suicide.
• Antipsychotics: Used either short-term or long-term to help control hallucinations, delusions, or symptoms of mania.
• Antidepressants: Often prescribed in combination with other medications to help ease depressive episodes. Antidepressants are carefully monitored to avoid SSRI-induced mania.
• Psychotherapy: Therapy options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help individuals identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and build a support system.

Bipolar II Disorder

Doctors identify Bipolar II Disorder by diagnosing a pattern of hypomanic and major depressive episodes. Hypomanic episodes, lasting at least four days, do not require hospitalization but can still disrupt life.

Treatment for Bipolar II Disorder:

• Mood Stabilizers: Primarily used to regulate mood and diminish disruptive mood swings.
• Antidepressants: Often prescribed for to ease depressive episodes. Antidepressants are carefully monitored to avoid SSRI-induced mania.
• Psychotherapy: Equally crucial, therapy can equip individuals with tools to manage their symptoms effectively.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymic Disorder features milder symptoms that don’t meet the full criteria for hypomanic or depressive episodes as established by medical experts, yet still cause distress and impair functioning.

Treatment for Cyclothymic Disorder:

• Mood Stabilizers: Helps reduce the frequency and intensity of mood swings.
• Psychotherapy: Important for developing coping mechanisms and symptom management skills.

 Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder can often be mitigated through a combination of medication and therapy, building a strong support system of family and friends, and adopting healthy habits, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, handling stress effectively, and eating well.

Getting Diagnosed

While getting diagnosed can look a little different for everyone, if you’re concerned you may have or be at risk of developing Bipolar Disorder, scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician is a good place to start. Generally, a primary care provider won’t be able to diagnose Bipolar Disorder, but they can evaluate you for any other conditions that may be causing symptoms and/or refer you to a psychiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Bipolar Disorder.

Bipolar Disorder is a serious, but manageable mental health condition. With the proper management skills, medication, and support system, symptoms can be alleviated and significantly less disruptive to everyday life.

By increasing awareness and understanding, we can create a more supportive environment for individuals living with this disorder and their loved ones. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is essential to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.