Bipolar disorder was previously referred to by clinicians as manic-depressive illness, but has since been renamed. The National Institutes of Mental Health points out that bipolar disorder can be a severe and progressively worsening illness if left untreated; poorly managed bipolar disorder can lead to relationship problems, job loss and even suicide.
Basics
Bipolar disorder can be diagnosed in childhood, but it may not become apparent until adulthood. It is thought that a person's genetics play a role in the possibility that he will develop bipolar disorder, but genetics do not predict the development. People with bipolar disorder often have other mental health issues, such a substance abuse problems and anxiety disorders, notes the National Institute of Mental Health.
Facts
The prevalence of bipolar disorder has increased in recent years. A 2005 study reported by the American Psychology Association demonstrated that 4 percent of the adult population and as much as 6 percent of children could be diagnosed with a form of bipolar disorder over some period in their life.
Types
The clinical approach taken with a person who has bipolar disorder will depend on the type of bipolar disorder she has. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM provides an overview of the four types of bipolar disorder. With bipolar I disorder, a person experiences both episodes of mania and depression. A person with bipolar II disorder experiences episodes of hypomania and depression. Those who have a form of bipolar disorder that does not meet the criteria for bipolar I or bipolar II are given the diagnosis of bipolar disorder not otherwise specified. The final type is cyclothymia, where a person experiences episodes of mild depression and hypomania.
The symptoms and signs of each types of bipolar disorder are similar and chronic but may vary in severity. Hypomania is less severe than mania; when a person is experiencing an episode of hypomania, she is generally higher functioning than a person with mania. Hypomania may require much lower medication dosages or no medical use at all, but the risk of hypomania developing into mania is always present in the clinician's mind. Treatment for the different types focuses on reducing and managing symptoms, preventing symptoms from worsening and maintaining patient safety because of the suicide risk with bipolar disorders. The risk of hospitalization for bipolar I disorder is higher, but any form of bipolar disorder could increase in intensity and hospitalization would be required.
Diagnosis
The clinical diagnoses of bipolar disorder is done through a mental health evaluation performed by a psychiatrist, social worker, psychologist or counselor. The diagnostic process includes medical tests to rule out other factors that may be contributing to the changes in mood and a complete family history, obtaining any information about other family members who have experienced mental health problems, reports the National Institute of Mental Health. The evaluation will provide the clinician with a list of the individual's symptoms that meet or do not meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder. Also, people close to the person may be asked to share their stories or experiences about this person.
Treatment
One of the main forms of treatment for bipolar disorder is the use of medication. A person with bipolar disorder is often prescribed a mood-stabilizing medication, such as lithium. A person may be required to remain on the medication for the remainder of her life, depending on the severity of her symptoms. Finding the correct medication and dosage levels is done through trial and error and oversight from a physician.
In addition to medication, psychotherapy is generally recommended in the treatment of bipolar disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, different forms of psychotherapy that have demonstrated effectiveness at reducing symptoms include cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducation.
The treatment engaged in will vary in intensity, be specific to the needs of the individual and be based on the recommendations of the mental health professional treating the person.
