Bipolar Disorder: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis Treatment, Complications & Prevention

Bipolar Disorder: An Effective Overview

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental disease, that causes ordinary feelings to become intense and frequently unpredictable. Extreme states of happiness, energy, and clarity can quickly give way to states of sadness, exhaustion, and confusion in people with bipolar disorder. People may consider suicide as a result of these shifts, which can be so devastating.

All people with bipolar disorder experience manic episodes. Manic episodes are abnormally high or irritable moods that last for at least a week and make it difficult to function. However, not everyone is down and depressed.

A family history of bipolar disorder is common. A relative with bipolar disorder or depression is present in between 80% and 90% of people with bipolar disorder. Stress, lack of sleep, drugs, alcohol, and other environmental factors can cause mood swings in people who are at risk. It is believed that dysregulated brain activity is caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals, even though the exact causes of bipolar disorder in the brain are unknown. The typical age of onset of bipolar disorder is 25 years old.

Types Of Bipolar Disorder

There are three types of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar I
Bipolar II
Cyclothymic disorder

Bipolar I Disorder

When a person experiences a manic episode, they are diagnosed with bipolar I disorder. People with bipolar I disorder go through manic episodes when they feel like they are on top of the world or uncomfortably irritable.

Most individuals with bipolar I disorder likewise experience times of unbiased temperament. In some cases, people also experience depressive or hypomanic episodes.

The majority of people with bipolar I will experience both mania and depression at some point, but a depression episode is not required for a diagnosis. Most of the time, the depressive episodes last for at least two weeks.

Bipolar II Disorder

Depressive and hypomanic episodes occur in people with bipolar II. However, unlike people with bipolar I disorder, they never experience a complete manic episode. Even though hypomania is less severe than mania, bipolar II disorder is frequently more crippling than bipolar I disorder because bipolar II sufferers are more likely to experience chronic depression.

For bipolar II disorder to be diagnosed, a person must have at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. Between episodes, people get back to how they normally work. Because hypomanic episodes frequently feel pleasurable and can even improve performance at work or school. People with bipolar II disorder frequently seek treatment after their first depressive episode.

Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders, which can exacerbate depression and hypomania in people with bipolar II disorder, are two other mental illnesses that are frequently present in these individuals.

Cyclothymic Disorder

A milder type of bipolar problem is described by various "state of mind swings," hypomania, and discouragement. Cyclothymia sufferers experience emotional ups and downs, but their symptoms are milder than those of bipolar I or II.

Cyclothymic disorder sufferers have a persistently unsteady mood. For at least two years, they experience hypomania and mild depression. Euthymia, or brief periods of normal mood, can occur in people with cyclothymia, but these periods last no longer than eight weeks.

Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar and related disorders come in a variety of forms. Depression and mania or hypomania are two examples. The symptoms can cause unpredictability in mood and behavior, which can be very distressing and make life difficult.

Bipolar I Disorder: You've experienced at least one manic episode, which may have come before or after hypomanic or major depressive episodes. Mania can lead to a disconnect from reality (psychosis) in some cases.

Bipolar II Disorder: You have experienced hypomania at least once and major depression at least once, but you have never experienced mania.

Cyclothymic Disorder: You have experienced periods of hypomania and depression (though less severe than major depression) for at least two years, or one year in children and adolescents.

Manic Episode

A manic episode is when a person experiences at least three of the following behavioral changes over at least a week, in addition to being extremely upbeat or irritable for the majority of the day:

Increased distractibility
Increased activity (such as restlessness, working on multiple projects at once)
Increased risky behavior (such as reckless driving, and spending sprees)
Decreased sleep
Faster or increase speech
Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired
Euphoria
Unusual talkativeness
Poor decision making
When speaking, racing thoughts that are impossible to control or rapidly shifting ideas or topics

These behaviors must be obvious to friends and family and represent a change from the person's usual behavior. For example, feeling energetic despite getting significantly less sleep than usual. The symptoms must be severe enough to disrupt activities and responsibilities at work, in the family, or in social settings. A manic episode's symptoms frequently necessitate hospitalization for safety reasons. Psychotic features include disorganized thinking, false beliefs, and hallucinations in some individuals experiencing manic episodes.

Hypomanic Episode

A hypomanic episode is one in which manic symptoms are less severe and only last for four days instead of a week. Hypomanic symptoms do not typically result in significant issues with day-to-day functioning.

Major Depressive Episode

A major depressive episode is one in which symptoms are severe enough to make it difficult to do everyday things like work, school, social activities, or relationships. An episode consists of at least five of the following symptoms.

Emptiness, hopelessness, sadness, and crying are all symptoms of depression.
Either restlessness or slowed behavior
Fatigue
Feelings of worthlessness
Diminished capacity for thought or concentration, or indecisiveness
Planning, attempting, or considering suicide
Inappropriate guilt
A significant lack of interest or enjoyment in all or nearly all activities
Weight gain, a reduction in appetite, or a significant loss of weight when not dieting

Causes Of Bipolar Disorder

Although bipolar disorder is a common mental health condition, its exact cause is still unknown. Some of the possible causes of bipolar disorder are as follows:

Genetics: Your risk of developing bipolar disorder increases by 10 to 25 percent if one of your parents does. Having said that, it is important to keep in mind that the majority of people who have a family history of bipolar disorder do not develop the disorder themselves.
Your Brain: The structure of your brain may influence your likelihood of developing bipolar disorder. This risk may be increased by abnormalities in your brain's structure, functions, or chemistry.
Biological Differences: The brains of people with bipolar disorder appear to be physically altered. Although their significance is still unknown, these modifications may eventually assist in determining the causes.
Environmental Factors: Your risk of developing bipolar disorder can be affected by more than just your physical health. External factors may also contribute. Some examples are extreme stress, trauma, and physical illness.
Triggers: An episode of mania or depression can be triggered by a stressful situation in some people who are at risk for bipolar disorder. This could be physical, sexual, or emotional abuse as a child, family conflict, or other significant life-changing events. Recreational drug abuse is another substance that has been linked to bipolar disorder.

Risk Factors For Bipolar Disorder

The following are factors that may either increase the likelihood of developing bipolar disorder or serve as a stimulant for the first episode:

Bipolar disorder in a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling
Alcohol or drug abuse
High-stress periods, such as the death of a loved one or another traumatic event
Certain health conditions

Diagnosis Of Bipolar Disorder

Your healthcare provider may employ a variety of diagnostic tools to determine whether you have bipolar disorder or not, including:

Physical Examination
A Comprehensive Medical History: This will include questions about your symptoms, experiences, family history, and life history.
Medical Tests: Like blood tests, make sure you don't have hyperthyroidism or another condition that may be causing your symptoms.
Assessment Of Mental Health: The evaluation may be carried out by your healthcare provider or may be referred to a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Psychiatric Evaluation: Your physician may refer you to a psychiatrist, who will talk with you about your thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior. You can also complete a questionnaire or psychological self-evaluation. Friends and family members may be questioned about your symptoms if you give your consent.
Mood Graphs: You may be asked to keep a daily record of how you feel, how well you sleep, and other things that might help with the diagnosis and treatment.
Bipolar Disorder Criteria: The criteria for bipolar and related disorders in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) may be compared by your psychiatrist to your symptoms.

The following mental health conditions are more likely to occur in people with bipolar disorder:

Anxiety
Hyperactivity disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Disorders of substance use
Dual diagnosis

Treatment Of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition. Controlling symptoms is the goal of treatment. Options for treatment include but are not limited to:

Medications: In many cases, you will need to begin taking mood-balancing medications right away.
Treatment That Continues: Even when you feel better, bipolar disorder necessitates medication treatment for the rest of your life. When maintenance treatment is skipped, there is a high chance that symptoms will return or that mild mood swings will progress into full-blown mania or depression.
Programs For Day Treatment: A program of day treatment may be suggested by your doctor. While you manage your symptoms, these programs provide you with the necessary support and counseling.
Treatment For Substance Abuse: Treatment for substance abuse is also necessary if you struggle with alcohol or drugs. Otherwise, managing bipolar disorder can be extremely challenging.
Hospitalization: If you are acting dangerously, feel suicidal, or have lost touch with reality (psychotic), your doctor may recommend that you be admitted to the hospital. Whether you're going through a manic or major depressive episode, getting psychiatric treatment at a hospital can help you stay calm, safe, and in control of your mood.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an essential component of bipolar disorder treatment. Various forms of therapy may be beneficial. These are some:

Interpersonal & Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): The stabilization of daily rhythms like sleeping, waking, and mealtimes are the primary focus of IPSRT. Better mood management is possible with a routine that stays the same. Establishing a sleep, dietary, and exercise routine daily may be beneficial for people with bipolar disorder.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The goal is to replace unhealthy, negative beliefs and actions with ones that are healthy and positive. CBT can assist you in determining what causes your bipolar episodes. You also learn how to deal with difficult situations and stress effectively.
Psychoeducation: Psychoeducation can help you and those you care about better understand bipolar disorder. You can get the best support, identify issues, devise a strategy to avoid relapse, and stick with treatment if you know what's going on.
Therapy Centered On The Family: You can stick to your treatment plan and recognize and manage warning signs of mood swings with family support and communication.

Other Methods Of Treating Bipolar Disorder

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

To reset the brain and alter the chemical balance, small amounts of electric shock (cause a brief seizure). Even though it is still used as a last resort when medications and therapy have failed, it is now much better controlled, safer, and has fewer risks and side effects than it did in the early days of this procedure.

Acupuncture

There is some evidence to suggest that acupuncture therapy might help with bipolar disorder-related depression. The central nervous system is thought to be stimulated by acupuncture points. Chemicals are released into the brain, muscles, and spinal cord as a result of this. The body's natural healing abilities may be improved by these biochemical changes, which could improve physical and emotional well-being.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

For individuals who have not responded to antidepressants, the possibility of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is being investigated. A short electromagnetic coil delivers an electric current to your brain during this treatment. It is sometimes used to treat depression that doesn't respond to medication. It is a substitute for ECT. TMS does not cause pain and does not necessitate general anesthesia.

Anti-Thyrotoxic Drugs

These medications can occasionally stabilize mood. People with AFAB with hard-to-treat, rapid-cycling bipolar disorder have seen improvements in their symptoms, according to studies.

Supplements

Although some people take vitamin supplements to alleviate bipolar disorder symptoms, there are numerous potential drawbacks. Their ingredients, for instance, are not regulated, they may cause side effects, and some of them may alter the way prescribed medications work. Make sure to share any supplements you take with your doctor.

Ketamine

It has been demonstrated that individuals with bipolar disorder receive short-term antidepressant and antisuicidal effects from ketamine, an anesthetic that is administered intravenously in low doses.

Hospitalization

In the treatment of the bipolar disorder, this is thought to be an emergency option. When someone is having a severe depressive or manic episode and poses an immediate threat to themselves or others, it becomes necessary.

Bipolar Disorder Medications

Bipolar disorder is treated with a variety of medications. The medications that are prescribed to you are based on your specific symptoms.

Mood Stabilizers: In most cases, you will need medication to stabilize your mood for controlling manic or hypomanic episodes. Lithobid, valproic acid (Depakene), divalproex sodium (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol, Equetro, and others), and lamotrigine (Lamictal) are all examples of mood stabilizers.
Antipsychotics: An antipsychotic medication like olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal), quetiapine (Seroquel), aripiprazole (Abilify), ziprasidone (Geodon), lurasidone (Latuda), or asenapine (Saphris) may be helpful if depression or mania symptoms persist despite treatment with other medications. Some of these drugs may be prescribed by your doctor on their own or in conjunction with a mood stabilizer.
Antidepressants-Antipsychotic: The antipsychotic olanzapine and the antidepressant fluoxetine are combined in the medication Symbyax. It works as a mood stabilizer and treatment for depression.
Antidepressants: For depression management, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant. Typically, an antidepressant is prescribed in conjunction with a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic because it can occasionally cause a manic episode.
Anti-Anxiety Medications: Benzodiazepines can reduce anxiety and improve sleep, but they are typically only used for short periods.

Complications of Bipolar Disorder

Being a complicated mental health condition, bipolar disorder may cause a variety of complications, especially when it is not well treated and managed. These complications can impact a person's life in significant ways. Here are some potential complications of bipolar disorder:

Substance Abuse: Bipolar patients are more likely to develop substance use disorders because they may self-medicate with alcohol or drugs or use these substances to regulate their emotions.
Relationship Problems: Relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners may be strained as a result of the severe mood swings and behavioral changes linked to bipolar disease, which may result in conflicts or even the breakup of these relationships.
Work and Academic Challenges: Bipolar disorder can affect one's ability to concentrate, make decisions, and maintain consistent work or academic performance. This can result in employment difficulties or academic setbacks.
Financial Problems: Impulsive spending during manic episodes or job instability due to mood-related issues can lead to financial difficulties and debt.
Financial Stress: Treatment and therapy costs, combined with potential job instability, can result in financial stress and limited access to appropriate care.
Legal Issues: Risky behaviors during manic episodes, such as reckless driving or legal violations, can lead to legal consequences.
Isolation and Social Withdrawal: Mood fluctuations may lead to social withdrawal and isolation, as individuals may struggle to engage with others during depressive or manic phases.
Health Complications: Neglecting self-care, including a proper diet, exercise, and sleep, can result in physical health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular issues, and sleep disorders.
Suicidal Thoughts: Individuals with bipolar disorder are more prone to consider or actually attempt suicide, particularly during depressive episodes. This is a significant issue that may be life-threatening.
Side Effects of Medication: Side effects from medications used in bipolar disorder treatment may result in patients discontinuing their prescriptions or experiencing new health problems.
Reduced Quality of Life: Untreated or inadequately managed bipolar disorder can significantly reduce an individual's overall quality of life, affecting personal fulfillment and well-being.
Comorbid Conditions: Bipolar disorder frequently co-occurs with other mental health diseases, such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which makes treatment more challenging.

Prevention of Bipolar Disorder

It is not entirely possible to prevent the development of bipolar disorder, which is largely a complicated mental health problem impacted by genetic and neurological factors. There are several methods, nevertheless, that may help lower the likelihood of developing bipolar disorder or lessen its effects:

Early Intervention: Consult a mental health professional right away for an examination and treatment if you believe you may have bipolar disorder symptoms or a family history of the illness. Early detection may help in symptom management and problem avoidance.
Stress Reduction: People who are predisposed to mood disorders may experience significant levels of chronic stress. Practicing effective stress-reduction methods, such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness, can lessen the negative effects of stress on mental health.
Healthy Lifestyle: Follow a balanced diet, get regular exercise, put sleep first, and abstain from drugs and alcohol. Overall mental health can be supported by a healthy lifestyle.
Mindful Medication Use: If prescribed medications for bipolar disorder, take them as directed by a healthcare provider. Medication adherence can help stabilize mood and prevent relapses.
Awareness and Education: Educate yourself and your loved ones about bipolar disorder. Understanding the condition can lead to early recognition of symptoms and more effective management.
Regular Checkups: Attend regular medical and psychiatric checkups to monitor mental health and identify any emerging symptoms or concerns.
Avoid Triggers: Recognize and avoid potential triggers for mood episodes, such as sleep deprivation, substance use, or extreme stressors.
Family Support: For individuals with a family history of bipolar disorder, provide a supportive and open environment for discussing mental health concerns and seeking help when needed.
Counseling: Consider counseling or therapy, even if you do not have a bipolar diagnosis. Therapy can provide valuable coping skills and emotional support.
Genetic Counseling: If there is a significant family history of bipolar disorder, genetic counseling may provide insight and guidance regarding the condition's hereditary aspects.

Lifestyle Modifications Effective In Bipolar Disorder

Lifestyle modifications can be effective in managing bipolar disorder when combined with medical treatment and therapy. Here are some lifestyle changes that can help individuals with bipolar disorder maintain stability and improve their quality of life.

Medication Adherence

Consistently take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider. Medication is often a cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment.

Psychotherapy

Engage in therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to learn coping skills, manage stress, and recognize mood triggers.

Sleep Routine

Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and getting up at the same times every day, including on the weekends.
Aim for 7-9 hours of good sleep every night because sleep disturbances can cause mood swings.

Stress Management

Learn stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation.
Reduce sources of chronic stress, such as work demands or relationship conflicts.

Physical Activity

Exercise may enhance mood, lower stress, and boost general well-being. Try walking, running, or yoga regularly.

Nutrition

Keep up a healthy diet that is balanced and emphasizes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains.
Consuming too much caffeine or alcohol may interfere with sleep and cause mood changes.

Substance Abuse Avoidance

Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, as substance abuse can worsen bipolar symptoms and interfere with treatment.

Routine and Structure

Create a daily routine that includes consistent meal times, exercise, and relaxation.
The structure can provide stability and reduce the risk of mood swings.

Social Support

Build a strong support network with friends and family who understand your condition and can provide emotional support.

Limit Stressful Life Events

Whenever possible, minimize exposure to major life changes or stressful events, as they can trigger mood episodes.

Self-Monitoring

Keep a mood journal to track mood changes, sleep patterns, and potential triggers, enabling early intervention.

Education and Advocacy

Educate yourself and loved ones about bipolar disorder to better understand the condition and advocate for your needs.

Regular Check-Ins

Maintain regular appointments with healthcare providers and therapists to monitor your condition and treatment progress.

FAQs About Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar illness is a long-term mental health problem that interferes with an individual's ability to function and has an impact on behavior and emotions. It is marked by abrupt transitions between periods of intense mood swings, including maniac outbursts and depressingly depressed intervals.

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder can be categorized in several ways, such as Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder, as well as specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders. Each of these classifications presents unique patterns of mood episodes.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Symptoms of bipolar disorder include manic episodes characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity, as well as depressive episodes marked by sadness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities. Symptoms can vary in intensity and duration.

What causes bipolar disorder?

It is unknown what specifically causes bipolar disorder. A combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors play a key role in causing bipolar disorder. A family history of the condition is a substantial factor in the susceptibility to develop it.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including a detailed assessment of mood symptoms, medical history, and family history. Diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) are used.

What is the treatment for bipolar disorder?

Mood-stabilizing drugs, psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy), and lifestyle changes are frequently used as treatment methods. For the disease to be adequately managed, medication adherence is essential.

Can bipolar disorder be managed or cured?

There is presently no treatment for bipolar disorder. However, with the right care and assistance, it may be properly managed. Many people with bipolar disorder enjoy happy lives when their symptoms are under control.

Is it safe for individuals with bipolar disorder to have children?

Individuals with bipolar disorder can have children, but careful planning and medical consultation are essential. Managing bipolar symptoms during pregnancy is crucial to ensure the well-being of both the parent and the child.

What can friends and family do to support someone with bipolar disorder?

Friends and family can provide emotional support, encourage treatment adherence, and learn about the condition to better understand its challenges. Encouraging communication and seeking help during mood episodes is vital.

What are the complications of bipolar disorder?

Potential complications of bipolar disorder include an increased risk of substance abuse, financial difficulties due to impulsive spending during manic episodes, strained relationships with family and friends, legal issues resulting from risky behaviors during manic phases, and a heightened risk of suicidal thoughts or actions, particularly during severe depressive episodes.

An Effective Overview of Bipolar Disorder- Medical & Health