Bipolar disorder (previously known as “manic depression”) is a condition that causes emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). The average age of onset is 25 (although symptoms can occur in the teens and, less commonly, in childhood). To date, researchers have not yet determined a single cause of bipolar disorder, which is instead thought to be a combination of biological and environmental factors. Improvement is common when individuals receive proper treatment.

Main Types

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5), the main types of bipolar disorder include Bipolar I, Bipolar II and Cyclothymia.

• Bipolar I: An individual experiences an episode of mania that is present for at least a week. A depressive episode is not required in order to fit criteria for a Bipolar I diagnosis.
• Bipolar II: A person experiences at least one episode of hypomania (a less severe form of mania) and at least one episode of depression that is present for at least two weeks.
• Cyclothymia: An individual experiences frequent mood swings between hypomania and depression over a period of time lasting two years or longer. Additionally, the symptoms of hypomania and depression are less severe than with other forms of bipolar disorder.

(Learn more here about additional classifications, such as “rapid cycling” and “mixed features.”)

Symptoms of Mania

• Feeling euphoric or irritable
• Talking quickly about a variety of topics
• Needing less sleep
• Racing thoughts
• Grandiosity or overblown sense of power
• Poor attention
• Increased risk taking/poor decision making
• Decreased need for sleep
• Easily distracted
• Increased energy or agitation

Symptoms of Depression

• Feeling very sad or anxious
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in sleep and/or appetite
• Forgetfulness
• Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Restlessness or slowed behavior
• Fatigue

During a severe episode of mania or depression, a person might also experience symptoms of psychosis, which include:

• Hallucinations (hearing, seeing or feeling things that are not there).
• Delusions (believing things that aren’t true and that others often find unusual).

Treatment

Bipolar disorder usually worsens when left untreated. However, significant improvement of symptoms is possible when individuals follow a treatment plan, which might include:

• Taking medication as prescribed. Mood stabilizers, in particular, have been shown to help control the highs and lows associated with this disorder.
• Participating in therapy, which might incorporate psychoeducation, self-rated mood monitoring and relapse prevention strategies—among other elements. When added to medication, therapy has been consistently shown to provide more improvement in bipolar symptoms than with medication alone.
• Making lifestyle changes, such as adding regular exercise, practicing good sleep hygiene, avoiding drugs/alcohol and sticking to a daily routine.
• Joining a support group, which can help individuals learn coping strategies, share experiences and maintain a sense of hope.

If you’re struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder, the compassionate professionals at Travco Behavioral Health can help. Contact us today!

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