Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic disorder characterized by extreme mood states fluctuating between mania (feeling euphoric, highly energetic and active) and depression (feeling sad, irritable, empty). These moods last for a few days or weeks. 

How to identify a manic episode?

• Feeling extremely excited or euphoric 

• Increased energy and activity levels

• Decreased need for sleep

• Talking a lot and talking fast

• Inflated sense of self-esteem and over-confidence

• Engaging in reckless behavior like spending too much money on shopping or poor investments

How to identify a depressive episode?

• Feeling sad most of the time

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Feeling tired or weakness

• Difficulty in thinking, concentrating or making decisions

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

• Thoughts about death or suicide

What causes bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, suggesting that there is a genetic component to the condition. An imbalance in the chemicals that regulate mood have also been noted. Environmental factors like substance use, trauma or abuse can also trigger or worsen symptoms of bipolar disorder. 

When to seek help?

While mood fluctuations can be fairly common, a person with bipolar disorder experiences episodes of high and low moods which last up to weeks and significantly disrupt their lives. It’s important to seek help at the first instance when manic or depressive symptoms are noticed. 

What is the treatment of bipolar disorder?

Medicines used to stabilize mood are the first line of treatment for bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy can help patients learn to adapt and cope effectively with the impact of the condition. Even though bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, with the right treatment, patients can go on to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.