According to Dr. Harry Croft, Medical Director of Healthy Place, bipolar disorder is a common yet severe psychiatric illness. It affects your ability to think clearly and has a profound impact on your moods and behavior. Two types of bipolar disorder exists: bipolar I and II. Treatment options exist for those who suffer from it, but knowing certain facts about this condition enables you to better manage the symptoms, resulting in a better quality of life.
Bipolar I Vs. Bipolar II
Bipolar I affects 1 percent to 2 percent of those diagnosed with this disorder and causes the patient to experience alternating periods of mania (extreme highs) and depression. In some instances, both mania and depression can occur simultaneously--these cases are referred to as mixed states.
Bipolar II causes frequent periods of depression with fewer episodes of mania. This is often referred to as hypomania and has less of a tendency to affect your ability to function normally.
When is Bipolar Diagnosed?
In many cases, bipolar disorder goes undiagnosed for years, even when the symptoms are present. It generally becomes obvious in the patient's late teens or early 20's, and requires lifelong treatment to help prevent recurrence of symptoms. According to Dr. Croft, if the condition is left untreated, there is a high risk of the afflicted committing suicide.
Is This a Genetic Disorder?
Determining the genetic probability of bipolar disorder can be quite complicated. It has the greatest genetic probability among all psychiatric disorders, with the chances of inheriting it from one of your parents ranging between 70 percent to 80 percent. However, there are many who are diagnosed whose children never inherit the disorder.
What is the Treatment for Bipolar?
Treatment is comprised mainly of medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. Some of the more commonly prescribed medications include Depakote and Lithium.
In addition to prescription medications, psychotherapy is a pivotal aspect of treatment. This treatment serves many purposes, which include educating the patient about his condition, helping him learn the warning signs of an episode, and helping him cope with the condition itself. In many cases, psychotherapy also helps loved ones of bipolar patients understand the disorder, resulting in healthier personal relationships between the patient and his family members.
What Challenges Does Bipolar Present?
Although this is the education age, bipolar disorder is not recognized as it should be among the public. It is a disorder that requires individualized treatment and community support, incuding rehabilitation and long-term care.
In many cases, it is difficult for sufferers to obtain insurance coverage to assist with the costs of doctors appointments and medications. This can lead to a lack of treatment compliance, which results in relapses.
Can Family Members Make a Difference?
Family members and close friends play a vital role in the treatment of their loved one. Though difficult at times, anyone diagnosed with bipolar desperately needs a strong support system to manage their condition. The best way for family members to help is to first educate themselves about bipolar and recognize the warning signs of an impending episode. From there, they need to be supportive, provide unconditional love and display patience.
