Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are supporting someone with the condition, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment of bipolar disorder is key to effective management.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder involving alternating episodes of mania (or hypomania) and depression. These shifts can occur over weeks, months, or even years, and their intensity and frequency vary from person to person.

• Mania refers to periods of intense euphoria, increased energy, and impulsive behavior.
• Hypomania is a milder form of mania with similar symptoms but less severe and not as disruptive.
• Depression brings periods of low mood, fatigue, sadness, and loss of interest in daily life.

Bipolar Depression Medication is often prescribed to help manage the depressive phases of the disorder. These medications aim to reduce symptoms of low mood while minimizing the risk of triggering manic episodes.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Depressive Episodes

When in a depressive state, a person with bipolar disorder may experience:

• Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or hopelessness
• Low energy and fatigue
• Guilt or feelings of worthlessness
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Appetite changes
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Manic or Hypomanic Episodes

During a manic or hypomanic episode, symptoms can include:

• Feeling unusually elated, energized, or irritable
• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
• Racing thoughts or rapid speech
• Reduced need for sleep
• Increased activity or restlessness
• Poor decision-making (e.g., spending sprees, risky behavior)
• Talking more than usual or feeling pressure to keep talking
• Distractibility or difficulty focusing

Types and Patterns of Bipolar Episodes

Bipolar disorder doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people may experience long periods of stability between episodes, while others go through frequent mood shifts.

Common patterns include:

• Bipolar I disorder: Characterized by at least one manic episode, often alternating with depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II disorder: Involves hypomanic episodes and at least one major depressive episode.
• Cyclothymia: Milder, frequent mood swings that don’t meet the criteria for full mania or depression.

Other patterns:

• Rapid cycling: Having four or more episodes of mania or depression in a year.
• Mixed episodes: Experiencing symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time, which can be particularly distressing.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

While the exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute:

• Chemical imbalances: Irregularities in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
• Genetics: Bipolar disorder often runs in families. Having a close relative with the condition increases your risk.
• Environmental stressors: Traumatic events, the loss of a loved one, or ongoing stress can trigger or worsen symptoms.
• Medical or hormonal changes: Physical illness or significant life transitions may also contribute to the onset of symptoms.

Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. If you’re experiencing extreme mood swings or episodes that disrupt your life, it’s important to seek professional help.

Diagnosis typically involves:

• A detailed interview with a psychiatrist or mental health professional
• Review of your personal and family mental health history
• Discussion of your symptoms, emotional patterns, and behaviors
• Screening for other mental health conditions that may overlap (like anxiety, ADHD, or borderline personality disorder)

It’s helpful to bring someone you trust to your appointment, as they can share insights into how your moods affect your behavior.

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

While bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it can be effectively managed with a combination of treatments aimed at stabilizing mood and reducing the number and severity of episodes.

Common treatment approaches include:

• Medication: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and family-focused therapy help improve coping skills and identify triggers.
• Lifestyle changes: Establishing a regular routine, engaging in physical activity, reducing alcohol and drug use, and managing stress can all support mental wellness.
• Education and self-monitoring: Learning more about your condition helps you recognize early warning signs of mood episodes and seek timely help.

Pregnancy and Bipolar Disorder

If you’re planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant, it’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team. Managing bipolar disorder during pregnancy requires balancing treatment effectiveness and the safety of your baby. Medication adjustments and increased mental health support may be needed to maintain stability during and after pregnancy.

Organizations like Tommy’s provide resources on bipolar disorder and pregnancy planning, helping expectant parents navigate this complex time safely.

Finding Support for Bipolar Disorder

Support is essential for managing bipolar disorder. Some people turn to close friends and family, while others find comfort in support groups and mental health charities. These groups offer:

• A sense of community
• A space to share experiences and coping strategies
• Hope to hear others' success stories

Support is just as important for caregivers and family members. Bipolar disorder can strain relationships, so it’s important for loved ones to also seek help, whether through therapy or peer support.

Living with Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder involves learning how to manage your condition day by day. With the right combination of treatment, lifestyle strategies, and a strong support system, many people with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling, stable lives.

Bipolar Medication often plays a central role in stabilizing mood swings and preventing future episodes. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage tailored to your needs.

If you think you or someone you love may be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, don’t wait. Reach out to your GP or a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis and a plan that works for you.