bipolar disorder

Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that can cause unusual shifts in mood, energy level, thinking, and behavior. People with disorder often experience episodes of very extreme “highs” called mania or manic episodes and periods of intense irritability or depression. Sometimes they hear, see, or think unusual things referred to as being psychotic.

I have mood swings so am I bipolar?

Maybe, but probably not… Everyone has good and bad moods depending on what is going on that day. However what separates Bipolar Disorder is the length of time it lasts; how debilitating, unpredictable, and extreme the symptoms are; and how it affects things like sleep, speech, and other behaviors.

bipolar 1 vs bipolar 2

Bipolar 1 Disorder is the more severe on complex type within the category of Bipolar mood disorders. Bipolar 1 is usually diagnosed following an initial manic episode. Bipolar disorder symptoms, ie manic behavior, can last upwards to 1 week and manifests as minimal need for sleep with increased energy, an upsurge of goal directed activity, irresponsible spending or promiscuity, excessive talkativeness, flight of ideas and jumping from one topic to another, and possibly even psychosis (hallucinations, delusions, and gross disorganization). Individuals will also have episodes of treatment resistant depression that can last weeks to months. Common is the history of frequent need for inpatient hospitalization and profound disruption of life.

Bipolar 2 Disorder this is the less severe type, which is typically identified following a hypomanic episode that typically extends for 3-4 days with similar behaviors as outlined above, however psychosis is typically not seen and the longstanding history of hospitalizations are not as common. Episodic depression between hypomanic episodes can also be apparent here.

Am I too young or too old for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder occurs in all age groups. The diagnosis is usually made following the initial manic or hypomanic episode usually at some point in one’s early to late twenties or even early thirties. Onset of presentation various depending on race, gender, family history, etc. .

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

Yes — Symptoms of mania are treated with mood stabilizers such as Depakote, Lamictal, or Lithium to level off mood swings, and are sometimes used in combination with antidepressants.

Why should I get evaluated?

• Adults: more at risk for divorce, unplanned pregnancies, legal or financial difficulties, and conflicts at work.

• Substance use: Up to 60% of people abuse alcohol or drugs at some point in the course of their illness.

• Health problems: increased incidence of heart problems, diabetes, migraine headaches, and hypothyroidism.