Symptoms
Bipolar disorder symptoms vary.
Manic Episode Symptoms:
Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired
Increased activity, energy, or agitation
Exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence (euphoria)
Decreased need for sleep
Unusual talkativeness
Racing thoughts
Distractibility
Poor decision-making (e.g., reckless spending, risky sexual ventures)
Depressive Episode Symptoms:
Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Fatigue or loss of energy
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Changes in appetite or weight
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Thoughts of death or suicide
Causes
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, but it likely results from a combination of factors:
Genetics: Bipolar disorder tends to run in families.
Brain Structure and Function: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and differences in brain structure may play a role.
Environmental Factors: Stressful life events can trigger episodes in people who are genetically predisposed.
Is Communicable
No, bipolar disorder is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
While bipolar disorder isn't preventable, managing triggers and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help:
Medication Adherence: Take medications as prescribed.
Regular Sleep: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: These can worsen symptoms and interfere with medications.
Monitor Mood: Keep a mood journal to track changes.
Early Intervention: Seek help at the first sign of a mood shift.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of manic and depressive episodes varies:
Manic Episode: To be classified as a manic episode, symptoms must last for at least one week and be present most of the day, nearly every day.
Depressive Episode: To be classified as a depressive episode, symptoms must last for at least two weeks. The length of time between episodes also varies considerably from person to person. Some people have rapid cycling, with four or more episodes within a year. Others have longer periods of stability.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
Physical Exam: To rule out other medical conditions.
Psychiatric Evaluation: A mental health professional will ask about symptoms, medical history, and family history.
Mood Charting: Tracking mood changes, sleep patterns, and other factors over time.
Diagnostic Criteria: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides specific criteria for diagnosing bipolar disorder.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly. Some individuals may experience their first episode in their late teens or early twenties, while others may not be diagnosed until later in life. The course of the illness can be characterized by:
Periods of remission (no symptoms)
Recurrent episodes of mania, hypomania (a less severe form of mania), and depression
Mixed episodes (symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time) The specific pattern of episodes varies considerably from person to person.
Important Considerations
Co-occurring Conditions: Bipolar disorder often occurs with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and ADHD. These conditions need to be addressed as well.
Suicide Risk: Individuals with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of suicide. It's crucial to seek help immediately if suicidal thoughts occur.
Long-Term Management: Bipolar disorder typically requires long-term management with medication and therapy.
Support Systems: Having a strong support system of family, friends, and mental health professionals is essential for recovery.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and symptoms.