Bipolar disorder

What is bipolar disorder? Symptoms and Treatments.
 Bipolar disorder


People with bipolar disorder experience periods of elevated or irritable mood, energy, and activity levels (known as manic or hypomanic episodes) and periods of depression. These mood episodes can be severe and can interfere with a person's ability to carry out their daily activities.

Symptoms of manic episodes may include:

  • Elevated mood
  • Increased energy and activity levels
  • Exaggerated self-esteem or grandiosity
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Increased talkativeness
  • Racing thoughts
  • Impulsivity and poor judgment
  • Agitation or irritability

Symptoms of depressive episodes may include:

  • Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
  • Decreased energy and activity levels
  • Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
  • Changes in appetite and weight
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Thoughts of death or suicide
Treatments:

Bipolar disorder is typically treated with a combination of medications, such as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. It is important for people with bipolar disorder to stick to their treatment plan and to communicate with their healthcare team about any concerns or changes in their symptoms.


Medications that may be used to treat bipolar disorder include:

  • Mood stabilizers: These medications are used to help control mood swings and prevent manic and hypomanic episodes.
  • Antipsychotics: These medications may be used to treat manic or hypomanic episodes and can be used alone or in combination with mood stabilizers. Examples include risperidone, quetiapine, and olanzapine.
  • Antidepressants: These medications may be used to treat the depressed phase of bipolar disorder, but they should be used with caution as they can sometimes trigger manic episodes.

Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can also be effective in treating bipolar disorder. CBT can help people with bipolar disorder learn coping strategies for managing their symptoms and improving their overall functioning.

Other therapies that may be helpful for people with bipolar disorder include:

  • Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT): This therapy focuses on helping people with bipolar disorder regulate their daily routines and improve their relationships with others.
  • Family-focused therapy: This therapy involves the person with bipolar disorder and their family members working together to improve communication and problem-solving skills and to support the person with bipolar disorder.
  • Psychoeducation: This type of therapy provides education about bipolar disorder and its treatment, as well as strategies for managing the condition.