Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic illness that involves extreme changes in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to perform day-to-day activities. In this blog, we are going to explore what bipolar disorder is, what it’s like to live with it, and its symptoms.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes episodes of mania and depression. Mania is characterized by elevated or irritable mood, excessive energy, and impulsive behavior. On the other hand, depression is characterized by low mood, loss of interest, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of mania, depression, or a combination of both. These periods are known as episodes, and they can last for several days or even weeks.
There are three types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Bipolar I disorder involves episodes of mania or mixed episodes (a combination of manic and depressive symptoms) that last for at least seven days. Bipolar II disorder involves episodes of hypomania (milder symptoms of mania) and major depression. Cyclothymic disorder involves numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms, lasting for at least two years.
What is it like to live with Bipolar Disorder?
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging and affect many aspects of an individual’s life. Here are some of the experiences that people with bipolar disorder may have:
Unpredictable mood swings
People with bipolar disorder may experience sudden and unpredictable mood swings. They may feel on top of the world during a manic episode and then feel hopeless and depressed during a depressive episode.
Difficulties in relationships
Bipolar disorder can affect an individual’s relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners. During a manic episode, an individual may engage in risky or impulsive behavior that can strain relationships. During a depressive episode, an individual may withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves, which can also affect relationships.
Challenges in the workplace
Bipolar disorder can also affect an individual’s work life. During a manic episode, an individual may have a hard time concentrating or completing tasks, while during a depressive episode, they may struggle with motivation and energy levels.
Stigma and discrimination
Unfortunately, there is still a stigma attached to mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder may experience discrimination, prejudice, or misunderstanding from others, which can add to the challenges they already face.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary depending on the type of episode and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
Mania Symptoms
- Elevated or irritable mood
- Increased energy and activity level
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts or flight of ideas
- Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem
- Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities with a high risk for painful consequences, such as shopping sprees, reckless driving, or gambling
Depression Symptoms
- Persistent sadness or empty mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Decreased energy and activity level
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Hypomania Symptoms
- Elevated or irritable mood
- Increased energy and activity level
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts or flight of ideas
- Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem
- Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities with a high risk for painful consequences, such as shopping sprees, reckless driving, or gambling
Symptoms of a mixed episode include symptoms of both mania and depression occurring simultaneously. Rapidly shifting moods, agitation or irritability, and insomnia or hypersomnia are also common.
Common Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
There are several common treatments available for bipolar disorder, including medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, as well as talk therapy. However, not all patients respond to these treatments, and some may be considered treatment-resistant. This means that despite receiving standard treatments, their symptoms persist, and their quality of life is not significantly improved.
In such cases, emerging treatments such as ketamine infusion therapy are showing promising results in managing treatment-resistant bipolar disorder. It is important to work closely with a qualified mental health professional to determine the best treatment approach for individual cases of bipolar disorder.
The Takeaway
At Greater Wellness Clinic, we understand the challenges that come with bipolar disorder and offer innovative treatments, such as ketamine infusion therapy, to help manage the symptoms of this condition. We believe that with the right treatment and support, those living with bipolar disorder can experience a better quality of life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder, we encourage you to contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help. Let us help you on your journey to greater wellness.