Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. It involves patterns of emotional highs and lows, creating a landscape where moods fluctuate dramatically from one extreme to another. These shifts can influence thoughts, behaviors, and daily functioning in ways that are both challenging and disruptive.
Navigating through the whirlwind of feelings can be bewildering, as well as for your families and friends. The journey to understanding bipolar disorder involves better understanding these mood changes and their effects on your life, providing a foundation for support, empathy, and effective management.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that’s characterized by significant mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).[1] These mood swings can affect sleep, energy levels, behavior, judgment, and the ability to think clearly.
Bipolar disorder is marked by episodes of both manic and depressive symptoms which may look like:[2]
Manic Episodes
During manic phases, you may experience manic symptoms including elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and a reduced need for sleep. You might engage in impulsive or risky behaviors and have racing thoughts that can lead to difficulty maintaining focus. This phase often involves an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity, and a heightened sense of productivity or creativity. Manic episodes can sometimes escalate to severe levels that necessitate hospitalization.
Depressive Episodes
In contrast, depressive phases are characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. You may lose interest in activities you once enjoyed, experience significant fatigue, and have trouble concentrating. Changes in appetite and sleep patterns are common, and you may experience feelings of worthlessness or intense guilt. In severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide may occur.
The fluctuation between manic or depressive episodes can be dramatic and disruptive, making daily life challenging. Everyone’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique, with varying duration and intensity of these mood swings.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Research into these factors continues to evolve, and while no single cause can be defined, several key factors are thought to contribute to the development of bipolar disorder:[3, 4, 5]
Genetic Factors
Bipolar disorder has been found to run in families, suggesting that genetic factors play a significant role. Studies indicate that those with a family history of bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. While specific genes associated with bipolar disorder have not been definitively identified, researchers believe that multiple genes may contribute to susceptibility.
Biological Factors
Changes in brain structure and function are also associated with bipolar disorder. Brain imaging studies have shown differences in the size and activity of certain brain regions in individuals with bipolar disorder compared to those without the condition. Additionally, neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are thought to influence mood regulation and may contribute to the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Environmental Factors
Life events and stressors can trigger or worsen bipolar episodes in people predisposed to the condition. Stressful events, such as trauma, abuse, major life changes, or significant disruptions, can provoke mood episodes. Environmental factors, such as substance abuse or sleep disturbances, can also contribute to the onset or worsening of bipolar symptoms.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations and imbalances may also play a role in bipolar disorder. For instance, changes in hormone levels related to puberty, pregnancy, or thyroid function might influence the onset or course of the condition.
Psychological Factors
While not a direct cause, psychological factors, and personal stressors can influence the severity and frequency of bipolar episodes as well. Cognitive patterns, personality traits, and coping mechanisms may impact how you experience and manage your symptoms.
What are the Types of Bipolar Disorder?
There are several different types of bipolar disorder. Each type has its own pattern of mood swings and symptoms, but they all share the core feature of mood instability:[6]
Bipolar I Disorder
Bipolar I Disorder is defined by the occurrence of a severe manic episode, which may be severe enough to require hospitalization or be accompanied by psychotic features, followed by a depressive episode that lasts for at least two weeks. The severity of the manic episodes and the presence of depressive episodes can significantly impact your daily functioning.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II Disorder involves a recurring pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. Still, it does not include the full-blown manic episodes seen in Bipolar I. Hypomania is a less intense form of mania, where symptoms are noticeable, but not as extreme, and do not typically result in significant impairment or require hospitalization. While Bipolar II Disorder can be less severe in terms of manic episodes, the depressive episodes can still be intense and debilitating.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic Disorder is characterized by periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years (one year in children and adolescents). However, the symptoms do not meet the diagnostic criteria for a hypomanic episode and a depressive episode. Individuals with cyclothymia experience frequent mood swings, but the intensity of the episodes is generally less severe compared to Bipolar I and II.
Bipolar Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition
This type of bipolar disorder is secondary to other medical conditions, such as neurological disorders or endocrine diseases. Mood symptoms are directly related to the medical condition or its treatment.
Substance-Induced Bipolar Disorder
Mood disturbances in this category are directly caused by substance use, including drugs, alcohol, or medications. The symptoms are similar to those of bipolar disorder but occur during or shortly after substance use.
How is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
Getting diagnosed with bipolar disorder involves a physical and psychological evaluation of your symptoms. Before a formal psychological evaluation is performed, your doctor may recommend a blood test to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms such as hyperthyroidism.
How Common is Bipolar Disorder?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bipolar disorder affects approximately one in 150 adults across the world.[7] In the United States, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that about 2.8% of adults experience bipolar disorder in any given year.[8] The lifetime prevalence — which indicates how many people will experience bipolar disorder at some point in their lives — is estimated to be around 4% to 5% in the US.
Bipolar disorder often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood, with the average age of onset typically between 15 and 25 years old.[9]
Can I Live a Normal Life With Bipolar Disorder?
Yes, it is possible to lead a normal and fulfilling life with bipolar disorder. Many individuals successfully manage their condition through a combination of effective treatment, including medication and therapy, and by implementing self-care strategies. Regular monitoring of symptoms, maintaining a stable routine, and building a supportive network of family, friends, and mental health professionals can greatly enhance your quality of life.
While bipolar disorder presents challenges, with appropriate management and support, you can achieve personal and professional goals, maintain relationships, and enjoy a high quality of life.
How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Effective management and treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of treatments designed to stabilize mood and improve overall functioning:
Medication
- Mood stabilizers: These are often the cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment. Common mood stabilizers include lithium, valproate (valproic acid), and lamotrigine. They help prevent extreme mood swings and maintain mood stability.
- Antipsychotics: Atypical antipsychotics, such as quetiapine, olanzapine, and risperidone, are used to manage symptoms of mania and, in some cases, depressive episodes. They can help control psychotic symptoms and mood fluctuations.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy plays a vital role in the management of bipolar disorder, offering invaluable tools and support when you are navigating the challenges of this condition. Engaging in therapy not only helps in understanding and managing symptoms but also fosters personal growth and resilience. Among the therapeutic methods, psychotherapy stands out as a key component in addressing the multifaceted nature of bipolar disorder.
Psychoeducation: Educating yourself and your family about bipolar disorder is a cornerstone of effective treatment. Psychoeducation empowers you with knowledge about the condition, helping you recognize early warning signs, understand treatment options, and implement strategies to maintain stability and prevent relapse.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a great therapy option in helping you identify and alter negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mood episodes. By developing healthier coping strategies and perspectives, CBT can significantly improve your daily functioning and emotional stability.
Family Therapy: This approach involves collaborating with your family members to enhance communication, reduce conflicts, and build a supportive environment. Effective family therapy can strengthen relationships and provide a robust support system, which is essential for managing bipolar disorder.
Lifestyle and Self-Care Strategies
- Routine management: A consistent daily routine can help stabilize mood and reduce the risk of triggering episodes.
- Sleep hygiene: Maintaining regular sleep patterns is extremely beneficial, as sleep disturbances can trigger mood episodes.
- Exercise and nutrition: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can support overall mental health and well-being.
Each person’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique, and treatment plans should be individualized based on your specific needs and responses to therapy. Working closely with healthcare providers to find the right combination of treatments can lead to more effective management of the condition and improved quality of life.
Bipolar Disorder Treatment for You
You deserve to live life to your fullest potential. Call Clear Behavioral Health today for effective, evidence-based bipolar disorder treatment that speaks to you. We offer a full continuum of care for treating mental disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety, and more.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about your mental health treatment options including mental health residential treatment for severe cases of bipolar disorder, outpatient mental health programs, mental health services for teens, and virtual IOP serving all of California.
If you’re struggling with co-occurring conditions such as bipolar disorder and substance abuse, we also offer inpatient drug and alcohol detox treatment for stabilization, drug rehab, and outpatient dual diagnosis programs for ongoing support.
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder, you don’t have to go through it alone. Take the first step toward healing and call us today.
References:
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2024, February). Bipolar Disorder – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Www.nimh.nih.gov. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder on July 29, 2024
- Medline Plus. (2019). Bipolar Disorder. Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/bipolardisorder.html on July 29, 2024
- Bipolar Disorder | NAMI. (n.d.). Www.nami.org. https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/bipolar-disorder/ on July 29, 2024
- Bipolar Disorder. (n.d.). Www.hopkinsmedicine.org. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/manic-depression–bipolar-disorder on July 29, 2024
- SAMHSA. (2023, April 24). Bipolar disorder. Www.samhsa.gov. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/bipolar on July 29, 2024
- Howland, M., & El Sehamy, A. (2021). What Are Bipolar Disorders? Psychiatry.org; American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/bipolar-disorders/what-are-bipolar-disorders on July 29 ,2024
- Bipolar disorder. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/bipolar-disorder on July 29, 2024
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Bipolar Disorder. Www.nimh.nih.gov. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/bipolar-disorder on July 28, 2024
- John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Mental Health Disorder Statistics. John Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/mental-health-disorder-statistics on July 29, 2024
