Manic-depressive sickness, usually referred to as bipolar disorder, is a mental health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Extreme mood swings brought on by this illness include periods of excessive activity and vigour (named mania or hypomania) and periods of low vigour and mood (called sadness). Bipolar disorder is a complicated condition, and each person’s symptoms and available treatments may differ greatly. This blog will examine the definition of bipolar disorder as well as its signs, traits, and available treatments.
What is bipolar disorder?
A person with bipolar disorder goes through mood swings and variations in their level of energy and activity. It is distinguished by periods of elevated mood and vigour, known as manic or hypomanic episodes, and periods of diminished mood and vigour, known as depressive episodes. These episodes can differ from person to person in terms of their severity, length, and frequency.
Several kinds of bipolar disorder are categorised according to the frequency and intensity of mood changes. One or more manic or mixed episodes, with or without depressive episodes, are among the signs of bipolar disorder type 1. Hypomania and a major depressive episode must both occur for bipolar disorder type 2 to be diagnosed. A less severe kind of bipolar disorder known as a cyclothymic disorder is characterised by recurrent episodes of hypomanic and depressed symptoms that do not fully match the requirements for a manic or major depressive episode.
Bipolar disorder symptoms
Symptoms of bipolar disorder might vary based on the condition’s kind and severity. The following symptoms may appear in a bipolar person during manic or hypomanic episodes:
- Increased energy and activity level
- Racing thoughts and ideas
- Extreme talkativeness
- Reduced need for sleep
- Grandiose ideas or beliefs
- Risky behaviour, such as drug use or gambling
- Irritability or agitation
During depressive episodes, a person with bipolar disorder may experience the following:
- Sadness, sorrow, or hopelessness
- A decline in enjoyment or interest in activities
- Drained or reduced energy
- Having trouble focusing or making decisions
- Thoughts of suicide or death
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping
Features of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complicated illness that can have an impact on a person’s life in many different ways. Bipolar disorder has some important characteristics, including:
- Impaired social and occupational functioning: Bipolar disorder can make it difficult for a person to maintain relationships, hold a job, or achieve their goals.
- Co-occurring mental health conditions: Bipolar disorder is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, substance abuse, or eating disorders.
- Increased risk of suicide: People with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of suicide than people in general.
- Genetic and environmental factors: Stress, trauma, and substance misuse are a few environmental and genetic factors that are known to contribute to bipolar illness.
- Onset in adolescence or early adulthood: Bipolar disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood, but it can occur at any age.
Symptoms in children and teens
Bipolar disorder can also occur in children and teens, although it is often difficult to diagnose in this population. Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and teens include:
- Irritability or frequent mood swings
- Extreme sadness or guilt
- Impulsivity or excessive activity
- Risky behaviour, such as drug misuse or unauthorised sex
- Alterations in eating or sleeping habits
- Having trouble focusing or performing in class
When to see a doctor?
It’s critical to get professional assistance if you or someone you care about is exhibiting signs of bipolar disorder. Treatment is necessary for bipolar disorder in order to control symptoms and enhance the quality of life. Bipolar disorder can seriously impede functioning, raise the risk of suicide, and cause other consequences if left untreated.
Some signs that it may be time to see a doctor for bipolar disorder include:
- Experiencing mood swings that interfere with daily life, such as difficulty maintaining relationships or holding a job
- Engaging in risky or dangerous behaviour, such as substance abuse or reckless driving
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Difficulty with daily activities, such as getting out of bed or completing basic tasks
- Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping
- Feeling hopeless or helpless
Bipolar disorder treatment
Treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. The goal of treatment is to stabilise mood swings, reduce symptoms, and improve functioning. The nature and severity of the ailment, as well as the patient’s requirements and preferences, will all influence the particular treatment strategy.
Bipolar disorder is treated with mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. Lithium and valproic acid are two mood stabilisers that can help control mood swings and stop manic or hypomanic episodes. Antipsychotic medications, such as olanzapine and risperidone, can help control symptoms of mania or psychosis. Antidepressant medications may be used in combination with mood stabilisers to treat depressive episodes, but they should be used with caution as they can trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in some people with bipolar disorder.
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can also be helpful for managing symptoms of bipolar disorder. CBT can assist in identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviours that lead to mood swings. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) can help improve communication and relationship skills, which can be helpful for managing bipolar disorder symptoms.
Other treatments for bipolar disorder may include:
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): In rare cases, ECT may be used to treat severe symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate brain nerve cells. It may be used to treat depression in people with bipolar disorder.
- Lifestyle changes: Bipolar illness symptoms can be controlled by making lifestyle modifications such obtaining regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and using stress-reduction methods.
How can Nasha Mukti Kendra help you with your bipolar disorder?
Nasha Mukti Kendra can provide significant support and help to individuals who are struggling with bipolar disorder. We have highly qualified and experienced clinical psychologists at our centres who specialise in bipolar disorder and can offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Our psychologists use evidence-based approaches to manage mood swings and depression associated with bipolar disorder, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and other psychosocial interventions.
At Nasha Mukti Kendra, we follow an American-Based Therapy program called Love & Care therapy, which aims to treat addiction as a disease and creates an atmosphere of trust between the patient and the rehabilitation program. This therapy involves a holistic approach to treat not only addiction but also mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder. By addressing the root cause of addiction and mental health problems, our Love & Care therapy program can help patients achieve long-term recovery and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Additionally, we provide open spaces for yoga, meditation, and other recreational activities at our Haridwar centre, which can be highly beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder. These activities encourage unwinding and reducing stress, which can help manage bipolar illness symptoms including anxiety and depression. Our facilities at Nasha Mukti Kendra offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals with bipolar disorder to learn coping skills and develop strategies to maintain mental wellness.
