Bipolar disorder, which is also known as manic depression, is marked by volatile mood swings, causing patients to feel abnormally up on some days and very down on others. The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not completely understood, but there is thought to be a genetic component. If untreated, bipolar disorder can lead to substance abuse, legal and financial trouble, difficulty with work and relationships, and suicide.
Development
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorder is typically diagnosed during a patient's late teen or early adult years. Although some people have symptoms of bipolar disorder during childhood, in many cases the disease does not develop until later in life. Half of all cases are diagnosed before the patient is 25 years old.
Diagnosis
Bipolar disorder is distinguished from other mental illnesses by the fact that it involves patients switching between manic and depressive states. If a patient has at least one "manic" episode coupled with symptoms of depression, he is classified as bipolar. Manic episodes are defined as periods of abnormally elevated mood and activity combined with aggressive and risky behavior.
Types
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three main types of bipolar disorder. With bipolar I disorder, the manic episodes are very severe and can disrupt school, social and work behaviors. Bipolar II disorder involves less-severe manic episodes; these can cause some changes in the patient's daily life, but she is able to continue her daily routines. Patients with cyclothymia have mood swings, but they are milder than the other forms of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms
Symptoms of manic episodes include abnormally elevated self esteem and euphoria. Patients going through a manic episode may experience racing thoughts, insomnia (combined with a decreased need for sleep), unusual optimism and agitation or irritation, and may be very physically active with an increased drive to achieve goals coupled with spending sprees or financial irresponsibility. On the other hand of the spectrum are depressive episodes, which include overwhelming feelings of sadness and hopelessness combined with extreme feelings of guilt, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Patients may also feel fatigued and have trouble engaging in previously enjoyable tasks.
Treatment
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat bipolar disorder, including antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers (such as lithium). Many patients also receive psychotherapy as part of their treatment. Electroconvulsive therapy can also be used for patients who have severe depression or are not adequately helped by other treatments.
