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What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. People with bipolar disorder typically experience both episodes of severe depression and episodes of mania – overwhelming joy, excitement or happiness, huge energy. Bipolar Disorder is very common with more than 3 million US cases per year.
There are three types of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I Disorder:
Defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days, or manic symptoms so severe the person requires immediate hospital care. Depressive episodes usually last at least 14 days, and it is possible to experience manic and depressive symptoms at the same time.Bipolar II Disorder:
Defined by a pattern of more brief and less intense manic and depressive episodes than those typical of Bipolar I Disorder.Cyclothymic Disorder (also called Cyclothymia):
Defined by minor manic symptoms accompanying periods of depressive episodes lasting at least 1-2 years. However, symptoms for both manic and depressive are typically less intense than those of Bipolar I Disorder or Bipolar II Disorder.
Bipolar Disorder is most easily differentiated from normal changes in mood if you experience the following:
Frequent periods of unusually intense emotions, frequent changes in sleep patterns and activity levels, and uncharacteristic actions and behaviors - often without realizing their harmful or undesirable effects until later. Those who experience manic and depressive symptoms at the same time may feel very sad, empty, or hopeless while at the same time feeling very energized.
Bipolar disorder is not a result of simply being unable to control one's emotions. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help people with bipolar disorder live a healthy and active life.
Manic symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:
Feeling very "up," "high," elated, or irritable or touchy
Feeling "jumpy" or "wired"
Having or feeling a decreased need for sleep
Having a loss of appetite and weight loss
Talking very fast about many different things
Feeling like your thoughts are racing or are out of control
Thinking you can do many different things at once
Doing risky things or showing poor judgement
Feeling like you are unusually important, talented, or powerful
Depressive symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:
Feeling very "down," sad, empty, worried, or hopeless
Feeling restless or slowed down
Feeling tired but experiencing trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much
Increased appetite and weight gain
Talking very slowly, feeling like you have nothing to say, or feeling very forgetful
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Feeling unable to complete simple tasks
Having little interest in most or all tasks
Feeling hopeless or worthless, including thoughts about death or suicide.
Tips to cope with bipolar disorder:
Exercise regularly; this helps with feelings of depression or anxiety, promotes better sleep, and is healthy for your heart and brain.
Make a detailed and consistent schedule and follow it daily, include set times for meals and sleeping.
Keep a life chart; keep a record of your daily moods and symptoms, sleep and eating patterns, and major life events. This helps patients and health care providers better assess treatment options and helps you see progress over time.
Reach out to a medical professional for treatment options.
Resources for more information:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml
https://medlineplus.gov/bipolardisorder.html
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-signs-and-symptoms.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955
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