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Bipolar

Bipolar

Bipolar Disorders Overview

Bipolar Disorders (Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder) are brain-based mood disorders characterized by extreme emotional states, including:

  • Mania or Hypomania:

    • High energy, euphoria, or unusual irritability.
    • Episodes lasting at least 4 days to a week or longer, disrupting daily functioning.
  • Depression:

    • Sadness, loss of interest, difficulty concentrating, and other depressive symptoms.

Impact on Functioning

Mood episodes affect:

  • Sleep, spending, and activity levels.
  • Productivity at work or school.
  • Relationships, judgment, and behavior.

Key Facts:

  • Bipolar Disorders often have a genetic component and may run in families.
  • Symptoms commonly appear in adolescents or adults, with the average first episode occurring around age 25.

Treatment:

  • Evaluation: If experiencing significant mood swings, professional evaluation is recommended.
  • Management: A combination of medication and therapy has proven effective in reducing mood episodes and restoring functioning.
  • Outcome: With proper treatment, individuals can regain stability and improve their quality of life.
Some symptoms may include:  

Types of Episodes in Bipolar Disorder

  1. Manic Episode (Bipolar I Disorder):

    • Symptoms: Extreme happiness, irritability, hyperactivity, little need for sleep, racing thoughts, and rapid speech.
    • Behavior: Overconfidence, excessive planning, and a belief in being unstoppable.
    • Duration: At least 1 week, with a noticeable change from usual behavior.
  2. Hypomanic Episode (Bipolar II Disorder):

    • Symptoms: Similar to a manic episode but less severe.
    • Duration: At least 4 days.
  3. Depressive Episode:

    • Symptoms: Extreme sadness, lack of energy or interest, inability to enjoy activities, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.
    • Duration: Varies, with periods of normal mood lasting up to 3 years between episodes.

Progression and Severity:

  • Episodes can vary in severity if left untreated.
  • Many individuals can predict a new cycle as symptoms begin to intensify.

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