Understanding bipolar disorder

Distinguished consultant psychiatrist Dr Thomas Dannhauser  explores bipolar disorder, including the symptoms, the different types of bipolar disorder and treatment options.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition that impacts mood regulation and energy levels. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings, which can range from periods of elevated mood and excessive energy (known as manic episodes) to episodes of depression, where they may feel low and lacking in energy, and irritability, starting arguments and getting angry easily.

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is ordinarily divided into two types, with severity of episodes of elation or elevated mood. Bipolar I is characterised by manic episodes that last at least seven days or are severe enough to require hospitalisation. Bipolar II is characterised by less severe mania, called hypomania, which is a less severe form of mania.

What are the various symptoms of bipolar disorder?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on the type and severity of the episodes. During manic episodes, individuals may feel euphoric, have racing thoughts and pressured speech, engage in risky behaviour, and have difficulty sleeping.

On the other hand, depressive episodes can manifest as feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Irritability is characterised by easily getting angry, starting arguments, and it can involve becoming violent and getting into trouble as a result. Whilst depression is relatively common, it is rare for someone to become severely depressed and for this to be associated with feeling suicidal or suicide attempts, which are more indicative of bipolar disorder. Anyone who has ever been moderately or severely depressed i.e. struggled a lot to function as normal or was unable to function as normal due to symptoms, should be screened for bipolar disorder.

What are the various causes of bipolar disorder?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood but it is associated with changes to the structure of the brain, and how it functions, likely due to a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors. Certain life events, such as traumatic experiences, or major stressors including positive (getting married, starting a new job) and negative (losing a loved one, strained relationships), can trigger episodes in susceptible individuals. Episodes can also be triggered by medical problems and common medications like steroids and some treatment for acne. Pregnancy and childbirth are common triggers for women.
 

What are the different treatment options?

Bipolar disorder is a treatable condition, and the mainstay of treatment is medication, in particular, mood stabilisers. Other supportive treatment and psychological therapies can contribute to better overall results. It is important to distinguish bipolar disorder from depression because the common treatment for depression i.e. antidepressant medication, can result in dangerous deterioration in bipolar disorder. Lifestyle changes, such as working normal office hours, avoiding shift work, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress, limiting alcohol and avoiding recreational drugs, can also help to stabilise mood. Precision psychiatry is making it possible to treat a lot of patients with fewer and/or better tolerated medications resulting in less or no side effects.

Seeking help

If you or a loved one are experiencing bipolar order symptoms, it is crucial to seek help from a medical professional. A thorough evaluation by a psychiatrist or mental health specialist can lead to an accurate diagnosis and the development of an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Bipolar disorder can be a very challenging condition, and engaging with appropriate treatment is only proven way to limit its impact and promote wellbeing. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you on your journey towards mental wellness.

If you would like to book a consultation with Dr Dannhauser, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today,