Bipolar disorder is a condition that is diagnosed when patients present severe mood swings that go from very high to seriously low. Also called manic depression, bipolar disorder is a psychological condition that, left untreated, can interfere with normal day-to-day activities. As energy levels ebb and flow, untreated bipolar disorder can lead to job loss, insufficient relationship skills and self-destructive behaviors.
Causes
Bipolar typically strikes in adolescence or young adulthood. Nearly 50 percent of all bipolar disorders begin before patients turn 25. There are no definitive causes for the condition and many believe the condition is a combination of a genetic disposition and poor coping skills. Environmental factors that may contribute to the disorder include alcoholism and drug addition, extreme stress from abuse in childhood and a family history of mental illness.
Depression
In addition to the rapid mood swings and erratic energy changes, people with bipolar disorder can present severe signs of depression for extended periods of time. The episodes may be stress related or seemingly come from nowhere. A depressive state usually is signaled when the patient becomes sad and hopeless. At other times, bipolar patients act and feel balanced and happy.
Mania
When a bipolar patient becomes manic, she acts very tense and focused. Many bipolar patients can be very productive during manic episodes, seemingly running on unending energy supplies. When the condition is extreme in either direction, the patient may experience hallucinations and harbor thoughts of suicide. The quick shifts in mood and attitude typically last for two-week intervals.
Treatment
Various drugs have proven effective for controlling the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The most common drugs used to treat bipolar disorder are mood stabilizers such as Depakote, lithium and Lamictal. The drugs, which are typically used as anticonvulsants, can bring on additional side effects such as depression and hyperthyroidism. Patients must be monitored when taking these medications. Antidepressants often are prescribed to counteract the mood-stabilizing drugs.
Long-term
There is no cure for bipolar disorder, so those afflicted must find a way to maintain their recoveries by continuing to take the proper doses of medication prescribed for them and follow-up with intensive therapy. Counselors or psychologists familiar with the disorder can help patients develop healthy coping techniques such as journaling or exercising. Cognitive behavioral therapy, family counseling and education are common therapies to treat bipolar long-term.
