According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes sudden changes in mood and energy, which are called episodes. These episodes have a profound effect on how a sufferer carries out her day. Manic episodes are the "up" episodes and depressive episodes are the "down" episodes. Sometimes, everyday tasks may seem overwhelming and other times, difficult obstacles seem easy. Although bipolar disorder has very profound symptoms, it is sometimes difficult to diagnose. The good news is that it is a treatable condition and that a sufferer who follows the treatment regimen can usually lead an active and productive life.
Manic Episodes
A person who is in the midst of a manic episode will feel incredibly happy. He may seem jumpy, talk a lot or seem easily distracted. Making impulsive decisions, especially those that are highly pleasurable, is another sign of a manic episode. You may notice that a manic person takes on more goal-oriented projects and seems to feel that he is invincible or has an extremely high opinion of his abilities.
Depressive Episodes
During a depressive episode, the sufferer will seem incredibly worried or down. Activities that she usually likes may be left alone. She may become irritated or agitated for no reason or because of minute issues. During the depressive episodes, she is likely to consider suicide. Changes in eating and sleeping habits are common during the depressive episodes. Some sufferers will increase their eating, while others will decrease it. The same goes for sleeping habits.
Risk Factors
According to the Physician's Desk Reference, roughly one percent of the adult population suffers from bipolar disorder. This medical condition affects men and women equally and usually manifests during adolescence or early adulthood. People who have close blood relative with the disease are more likely to be affected by it than those without any family history of the condition.
Diagnosis
The Mayo Clinic reports that diagnosing bipolar disorder usually involves a battery of mental health and physical evaluations. An in-depth medical history is taken. Vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse and reflexes are checked. Blood work, including a blood count and thyroid tests, is usually ordered. In some cases, a urinalysis is needed to rule out drug abuse. Finally, a mental health evaluation in the form of an interview, written tests or a combination of both is required. The specific diagnosis is made using the preceding tests, as well as a history of the episodes, including length, frequency and severity.
Treatment
The National Institute of Mental Health lists a comprehensive treatment plan for treating bipolar disorder. This includes medication, self care, individual and family therapy, as well as electroconvulsive therapy. The medications may include mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medication, sleep medication and/or antidepressants. Self care includes avoiding alcohol, drugs and extremely stressful situations. Individual and family therapy may include cognitive behavioral therapy and coping skills. Most of the time, bipolar disorder can be treated out-patient. However, if the sufferer is a threat to himself or those around him, emergency in-patient care is warranted.
