Bipolar Disorder – Types, Signs, and Management

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can cause severe symptoms like hypomanic episodes (emotional highs) or depressive episodes (lows). When affected by depressive episodes, one may feel gloomy, hopeless, and uninterested in most activities. When the mood shifts to mania or hypomania, they can feel incredibly joyful, energized, or irritable. Such intense feelings can affect focus, judgment, behavior, and sleep. Here is a look at the causes, signs, and management of the disorder:  Types Here are the four primary kinds of bipolar disorder that doctors use for a precise diagnosis: Bipolar I disorder: People with this condition experience one or more manic episodes that last for seven days or require hospitalization. Although a depressive episode is not required for diagnosis, the majority of those who have this condition experience both manic and depressive episodes at various points in their lives. The depressive episode can last at least two weeks. People with bipolar I can experience symptoms of both episodes simultaneously. Bipolar II disorder: Here, one experiences depressive and hypomanic episodes that can last a few days. One does not experience a complete manic episode, which makes it different from bipolar I. Here, one usually experiences hypomania, a less severe form of mania. Cyclothymic disorder or cyclothymia: Those with this disorder experience persistent mood instability. They experience periods of hypomania and mild depression for at least two years. One can go through brief euthymic phases (i.e., without mood disturbances), but these intervals usually only last eight weeks or less. Other types: If a person exhibits clinically significant abnormal mood elevation but does not meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I, II, or cyclothymia, they are diagnosed with bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (NOS). Signs Manic episodes lasting at least a week are indicative of bipolar I disorder, whereas hypomanic episodes are indicative of bipolar II disorder. These fluctuating moods and emotions are unalike and do not follow any pattern. A person may experience the same mood repeatedly, with periods of euthymia in between, before feeling the opposite emotion. Those with bipolar disorder may go through mood swings for weeks, months, or even years. Depression can last for several weeks or months, whereas mania can last for several days or weeks. Manic and depressive phases can vary in intensity from person to person, and over time, from episode to episode. Here are indications of a manic episode: Abrupt and extreme mood swings, say, going from being happy to furious and belligerent Anxiousness Rapid speaking and thinking Energy boost and unwillingness to sleep Excessive joy, optimism, and excitement Increased impulsiveness and poor decision making Making ambitious yet impossible plans Recklessness and risk-taking behavior Feeling isolated and most powerful Hallucinations and delusions—symptoms of psychosis, which are experienced in the most severe manic episodes The following are indications of depressive episodes: Feelings of worthlessness or despair Loss of pleasure in formerly enjoyable activities Poor decision-making and focus Hysterical sobbing Overwhelming sadness Low energy and tiredness Inadequate motivation A change in appetite Suicidal or homicidal thoughts (suicidal ideation) Irritability Increased sleep requirement Excessive sleeping or insomnia Causes The precise causes of bipolar disorder are not yet known. However, it is one of the most inherited psychiatric illnesses. Although a parent may not necessarily pass the condition to their child, family history is a strong risk factor. Additionally, according to researchers, the following factors can lead to bipolar disorder: Changes in the brain: In patients with bipolar disorder, there is a slight variation in the average size or activation of brain structures. However, this cannot be confirmed solely with a brain scan. Other factors like stress and trauma: A stressful incident, such as the death of a loved one, a serious illness, a divorce, or financial difficulties, can increase the risk of a manic or depressive episode. Such emotional factors may contribute to the development of this illness. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the origins of bipolar disorder, which can help with therapy and efforts to make managing the disorder easier. Management options Doctors can recommend various treatment options depending on the patient’s condition and the preferred course of therapy by the healthcare provider. The following options are typically recommended and combined to develop a treatment plan: Self-management techniques like educating oneself and recognizing the early signs of an episode or potential triggers of attacks Psychotherapy Prescription treatment options Beneficial lifestyle practices, like yoga, meditation, and exercise, that supplement treatment but cannot substitute it If a treatment option is ineffective or quick symptom management is required to avoid injury, doctors may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The illness requires lifelong therapy as it is a chronic condition. Occasionally, it may take some time to identify the best course of action for various patients before selecting the one that best addresses most symptoms. It is critical to be patient and hopeful when undergoing treatment, as results and understanding how to manage the condition can take time. Manic and depressive episodes can recur. Many people with bipolar disorder experience no mood changes in between episodes. On the other hand, some people might still experience fluctuations in mood. These symptoms can be managed with long-term, persistent treatment. Healthcare professionals frequently advise patients to adopt helpful lifestyle changes and avoid engaging in actions that may exacerbate symptoms. Here are some instances of lifestyle modifications to manage the disorder: Maintaining a daily or mood journal will enable one to keep track of their thoughts, actions, and potential triggers Adopting regular sleep patterns can help one feel happier, more energized, and concentrate better throughout the day Exercising can improve one’s mood and overall mental health, aiding in symptom reduction Meditation and yoga aid in maintaining composure, preventing panic attacks, and overcoming stressful situations