Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder

 To understand bipolar disorder, first, we need to understand manic and depressive episodes.

A Manic Episode is defined by a distinct period during which there is an abnormally

and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood. This period of abnormal mood

must last at least 1 week.

A depressive episode is defined by a distinct period of time during which there is persistive depressed and lonely behavior for at least 2 weeks.

Bipolar disorder has these two phases - manic and depressive. There is a constant and abrupt fluctuation in the mood consisting of these episodes. Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Symptoms

A Bipolar Episode is characterized by a period of time (lasting at least 1 week) in which

the criteria are met both for a Manic Episode and for a Major Depressive Episode nearly

every day. The individual experiences rapidly alternating moods (sadness, irritability, euphoria) accompanied by symptoms of a Manic Episode and a Major Depressive Episode.The symptom presentation frequently includes agitation, insomnia, appetite dysregulation, psychotic features, and suicidal thinking.

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.

Prevention of Episodes

If you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, some strategies can help prevent minor symptoms from becoming full-blown episodes of mania or depression:

• Pay attention to warning signs. Addressing symptoms early on can prevent episodes from getting worse. You may have identified a pattern to your bipolar episodes and what triggers them. Call your doctor if you feel you're falling into an episode of depression or mania.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol. Using alcohol or recreational drugs can worsen your symptoms and make them more likely to come back.
• Take your medications exactly as directed. You may be tempted to stop treatment — but don't. Stopping your medication or reducing your dose on your own may cause withdrawal effects or your symptoms may worsen or return.