Bipolar Disorder - Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Overview

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder in which the person undergoes extreme shifts in mood, characterized by episodes of mania and depression.

The disorder is chronic in nature and can interfere with the daily life of an individual. It can be treated, but the key is to get the disorder diagnosed early.

What are the signs and symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

Manic and Hypomanic Symptoms

Although mania and hypomania share similar symptoms, they are different types of episodes. Mania is more severe than hypomania and can lead to more significant challenges in one's personal and professional life, including difficulties in relationships, work, school, and social activities. Mania may even cause a break from reality, which can result in hospitalization. Symptoms include:

• Feeling overly happy
• Having trouble focusing
• Doing risky things
• Acting very silly
• Being short-tempered
• Having trouble sleeping.
• extremely euphoric mood

Depressive Symptoms

During a major depressive episode, an individual experiences symptoms that are significant enough to create noticeable challenges in their daily life, such as work, school, social activities, or relationships.

An episode is characterized by the presence of five or more symptoms from a list of specific criteria.
• Low mood
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Eating too much or too little
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Lacking energy
• Frequent crying spells
• Thoughts of suicide or death.
The symptoms interfere with daily functionality significantly.

What are the Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder: One manic episode may be followed or preceded by a hypomanic or major depressive episode in individuals with Bipolar I Disorder. This is comparatively a more severe form of the disorder.

Bipolar II disorder: At least one hypomanic and depressive episode, but no manic episode is one of the diagnostic criteria for Bipolar II Disorder. Only a mental health professional can diagnose the disorder and it can be managed with their help.

Cyclothymic disorder: At least 2 years (or 1 year for children and teenagers) with periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms.

Other types: Bipolar disorder is induced by substances like drugs, alcohol, or other medical conditions such as stroke.



What is Manic Depression?

Manic depression is the name that was previously used by mental health professionals to denote Bipolar Disorder. However, the revision of the DSM in 1980 led to its renaming as Bipolar Disorder. This was done to eliminate confusion and the inadvertent historical stigma that the term carried with it.



Who Does Bipolar Disorder Affect?

Bipolar Disorder occurs in women and men almost equally. The onset of the disorder is usually in the early 20s. However, teenagers can develop bipolar disorder while the disorder is also seen to occur in older adults.

Individuals who have a close relative or sibling with the disorder are far more likely to develop the disorder when compared to others. Women with bipolar disorder are more likely to have episodes of depression while men might tend to display manic symptoms more often.



How Common is Bipolar Disorder In India?

Bipolar Disorder affects a large number of people in India. It is quite common with statistics showing that it affects up to 21 people per 1000 people in the country.

The major roadblocks to effective treatment in the country are a lack of resources and accessibility to available resources. Cadabams is trying to bridge this gap by bringing quality healthcare with the help of expert professionals at an affordable price.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

Factors such as brain chemical imbalances, abnormalities of the brain’s physical characteristics, family history of the disorder, severe stress, substance abuse, or traumatic events can also be responsible for the development of bipolar disorder.



How is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

To determine whether a person has bipolar disorder an evaluation is necessary. A mental health professional conducts this evaluation. It involves several steps, including a physical exam and lab tests to identify any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms.

An individual may also undergo a psychiatric assessment with a psychiatrist, who will discuss their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Additionally, they may be asked to fill out a psychological self-assessment or questionnaire, and with their consent, family members or close friends may be asked to provide information about the symptoms.

Keeping a daily record of moods, sleep patterns, or other factors that could aid in diagnosis and treatment may also be necessary.

Finally, the psychiatrist may compare the symptoms with the criteria for bipolar and related disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association.



How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

Medications and psychotherapy in combination are effective treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and reduce the impact of stressors that can trigger episodes.

Medication helps with the symptoms of the disorder, reducing the number of adverse episodes associated with them. Medication is prescribed by a psychiatrist who then constantly monitors their effectiveness while also gauging the side effects.

Psychotherapy, which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Group Therapy, Family Therapy, and more is seen to be effective in helping individuals manage the stressors associated with the disorder. A trained counselor or clinical psychologist conducts the psychotherapeutic sessions to help in recovery. For individuals who cannot make it to a treatment center, mental health organizations like ours here at Cadabams offer effective home care services.



What Type of doctors or specialists Can Help in Treating Bipolar Disorder?

A multidisciplinary team, like the one here at Cadabams Hospitals, is seen to be very effective in treating Bipolar Disorder. The team includes psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, therapists, family therapists, counselors, and more to help in recovery. They help in creating a holistic and comprehensive approach to recovery.

Psychiatrists for Bipolar Disorder help in the diagnosis and treatment of the disorder. They prescribe the right type and dosage of medication to help with the different symptoms associated with it. Clinical psychologists are mental health professionals who help an individual build coping strategies against bipolar disorder while they deal with the stressors of daily life. Family therapists help both the individual and their loved ones understand the nature of the disorder and how it affects familial relationships.



Why Cadabams?

If you or your loved one is suffering from bipolar disorder, help is available. Cadabams Hospitals is the best hospital for bipolar disorder treatment in Bangalore and Hyderabad. With over three decades of experience in mental health, we are equipped with the best doctors and mental health professionals who are consistently available for support. For cases of Bipolar Disorder that need more assistance, we have dedicated rehabilitation centers that are equipped with world-class infrastructure and expert professionals to accelerate recovery. Reach out to us on our helpline number 9741476476.