What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a brain disorder that causes changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks, called mood episodes.
These mood episodes are categorized as manic/hypomanic (abnormally happy or irritable mood) or depressive (sad mood). And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they can interfere with your job or school performance, damage your relationships, and disrupt your ability to function in daily life.
Different types of bipolar disorder
There are several different types of bipolar disorder, each with its own unique features. The primary types of bipolar disorder recognized by mental health professionals are:
Bipolar I Disorder: This type of bipolar disorder involves experiencing manic episodes that last for at least seven days or are severe enough to require immediate hospitalization. Depressive episodes may also occur, lasting for at least two weeks.
Bipolar II Disorder: In this type, individuals experience depressive episodes similar to those in Bipolar I Disorder. However, the manic episodes, known as hypomanic episodes, are less severe and usually do not require hospitalization.
Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that last for at least two years (one year in children and adolescents). The symptoms are not as severe as those in Bipolar I or II Disorder.
Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (BP-NOS): This category is used to describe bipolar symptoms that do not precisely fit into the other subtypes. It may involve a combination of manic and depressive symptoms that do not meet the specific criteria for Bipolar I or II Disorder.
Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders: These categories encompass bipolar symptoms that do not fit into the established subtypes but still cause significant distress or impairment. They may include rapid cycling bipolar disorder, where individuals experience frequent shifts between depressive and manic/hypomanic episodes within a year.
It’s important to note that accurate diagnosis and treatment for bipolar disorder should be provided by a qualified mental health professional. If you suspect you or someone you know may have bipolar disorder, it’s recommended to seek professional help for an evaluation and appropriate care.
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms:
Mania Episode Signs and Symptoms:
Persistent sadness or depressed mood: Feeling down, hopeless, or experiencing a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable.
Excessive worry or anxiety: Feeling excessively anxious, restless, or on edge. This may manifest as excessive worrying, difficulty controlling worry, or experiencing physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or sweating.
Changes in appetite or weight: Significant weight loss or gain, or a noticeable change in appetite. This may result in eating too much or too little, leading to either overeating or undereating.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless and unsatisfying sleep. This may include insomnia or excessive sleeping.
Fatigue or loss of energy: Feeling tired, lacking energy, or experiencing a general sense of fatigue, even with sufficient rest or sleep.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Struggling to focus, remember information, or make decisions, often resulting in decreased productivity or problems in school or work.
Irritability or mood swings: Frequent mood swings, irritability, or anger outbursts that are disproportionate to the situation. This may lead to strained relationships or problems in social interactions.
Social withdrawal: Avoiding social situations, isolating oneself, or withdrawing from activities and relationships that were once enjoyable. This can be accompanied by a loss of interest in socializing.
Physical symptoms without a clear cause: Experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, or other bodily discomforts without any identifiable medical cause.
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: Having persistent thoughts about death, suicide, or engaging in self-harming behaviors. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek help immediately.
Sometimes people experience both manic and depressive symptoms in the same episode. This kind of episode is called an episode with mixed features.
Bipolar Disorder Causes:
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but several factors may be involved, such as:
- Biological differences. People with bipolar disorder appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain but may eventually help pinpoint causes.
- Genetics. Bipolar disorder is more common in people who have a first-degree relative, such as a sibling or parent, with the condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing bipolar disorder.
- Substance Abuse. While substance abuse doesn’t cause bipolar disorder, it can bring on an episode or worsen the course of the disease.
- Medication. Certain medications, most notably antidepressant drugs, can trigger mania.
- Seasonal Changes. Episodes of mania and depression often follow a seasonal pattern. Manic episodes are more common during the summer, and depressive episodes more common during the fall, winter, and spring.
- Sleep Deprivation. Loss of sleep—even as little as skipping a few hours of rest—can trigger an episode of mania.
- Environmental factors
It’s not just what’s in your body that can make you more likely to develop bipolar disorder. Outside factors may contribute, too. These factors can include:
- extreme stress
- traumatic experiences
- physical illness
Each of these factors may influence who develops bipolar disorder. What’s more likely, however, is that a combination of factors contributes to the development of the disease.
Risk factors:
Factors that may increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder or act as a trigger for the first episode include:
- Family history: Having a close relative with bipolar disorder increases the risk.
- Genetics: Certain gene variations are associated with a higher likelihood of developing bipolar disorder.
- Brain structure and function: Differences in brain regions involved in mood regulation may contribute to the disorder.
- Chemical imbalance: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can play a role.
- Environmental factors: Significant life stressors, traumatic events, substance abuse, or major life changes can increase the risk.
- Childhood trauma: Adverse experiences during childhood, such as abuse or neglect, may raise the risk.
- Substance abuse: Drug and alcohol abuse can trigger or worsen bipolar disorder symptoms.
Bipolar Disorder Treatment:
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition. Treatment is directed at managing symptoms. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:
- Medications. A number of medications are used to treat bipolar disorder. The types and doses of medications prescribed are based on your particular symptoms.
- Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a vital part of bipolar disorder treatment and can be provided in individual, family or group settings
- Continued treatment. Bipolar disorder requires lifelong treatment with medications, even during periods when you feel better. People who skip maintenance treatment are at high risk of a relapse of symptoms or having minor mood changes turn into full-blown mania or depression.
- Day treatment programs. Your doctor may recommend a day treatment program. These programs provide the support and counselling you need while you get symptoms under control.
- Substance abuse treatment. If you have problems with alcohol or drugs, you’ll also need substance abuse treatment. Otherwise, it can be very difficult to manage bipolar disorder.
- Hospitalization. Your doctor may recommend hospitalization if you’re behaving dangerously, you feel suicidal or you become detached from reality (psychotic). Getting psychiatric treatment at a hospital can help keep you calm and safe and stabilize your mood, whether you’re having a manic or major depressive episode.
- Complementary health approaches, such as aerobic exercise meditation, faith and prayer can support, but not replace, treatment.
Conclusion
Individuals with bipolar disorder may be at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs, which include changes in eating and sleeping patterns, expressing thoughts of suicide or hopelessness, engaging in reckless behaviors, increased accidents, substance abuse, preoccupation with negative themes, emotional withdrawal, and giving away possessions. If you or someone you know is experiencing these warning signs, it is crucial to seek immediate medical help. Contact a mental health professional, call a helpline, or go to the nearest emergency room to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual.
FAQs
Can bipolar disorder increase the risk of suicide?
yes, individuals with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population. The extreme mood swings and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
What are the warning signs of suicide in someone with bipolar disorder?
Warning signs may include changes in eating and sleeping patterns, expressing thoughts of suicide or hopelessness, engaging in reckless behaviors, increased accidents, substance abuse, preoccupation with negative themes, emotional withdrawal, and giving away possessions.
What should I do if I suspect someone with bipolar disorder is at risk of suicide?
If you believe someone with bipolar disorder may be at risk of suicide, take their situation seriously. Encourage them to seek professional help, offer support and understanding, and stay connected with them. If there is an immediate threat, do not hesitate to contact emergency services or a helpline.
How can bipolar disorder be treated to reduce the risk of suicide?
Treatment for bipolar disorder often involves a combination of medication, such as mood stabilizers, and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These interventions can help manage symptoms, stabilize mood, and reduce the risk of suicide. It’s important to work closely with a mental health professional to develop an individualized treatment plan.
