Written by Ava Axelson, Edited by Olivia McCollum, Edited by Courtney Coleman
Introduction
Bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) is a mental condition that causes severe mood swings and emotional dysregulation. There are different types of bipolar disorder. The first type is bipolar I disorder, which is when an individual has had at least one manic episode that may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes (Mayo Clinic). The second type of BPAD is Bipolar II disorder, which is when individuals experience at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode without having experienced a manic episode prior (Mayo Clinic). Lastly, cyclothymic disorder is when there have been at least two years, or one year in children and teenagers, of many periods of hypomania symptoms
and periods of depressive symptoms (though less severe than major depression)(Mayo Clinic). There can also be other types that are caused by alcohol, drugs, or other medications (Mayo Clinic). Individuals who have BPAD usually become symptomatic around adolescence or early adulthood; however, there are cases where diagnoses were made in early childhood and even well into middle age. The disorder is very
prominent in the United States, with approximately 1 in every 100 Americans suffering from BPAD (Mayo Clinic).
Symptoms
The symptoms of BPAD generally include mood swings, often with the person switching from hypomania to major depressive episodes. Hypomania is generally characterized by upbeat and talkative episodes, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, distraction, risky decision-making, and euphoria (Mayo Clinic). Major depressive episodes often consist of either insomnia or oversleeping, depressed mood, loss of interest, sudden weight loss or gain, loss of appetite, loss of energy, inability to pay attention, and thoughts of suicide (Mayo Clinic). Due to their natural mood fluctuations, BPAD can be especially difficult to diagnose in children and teens. Healthcare providers must be able to discern between abnormal mood swings and those that children and teens normally experience (Mayo Clinic).
Treatments
There are many medications used to treat bipolar disorder. Some examples are antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers, and the medications prescribed vary based upon one’s needs (Mental Illness Policy). Cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoeducation can also be beneficial for patients to learn how to best manage mood swings and deal with depressive or manic episodes (NHS). Another option for treatment is lifestyle modification. For instance, increasing exercise, reducing the use or abstaining from drugs and alcohol, as well as improving sleep, may help in reducing symptomatic episodes.
Risk Factors
Genetics, the environment, and one's brain structure may contribute to susceptibility to developing BPAD.
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families. Since it can be genetic, children with a parent or sibling with
BPAD have been found to have a higher risk of developing it compared to those who do not (Healthline). Traumatic or stressful events on both the mind and body can also trigger BPAD (Healthline). Substance abuse disorder is another possible factor in triggering BPAD. (Healthline) Finally, brain structure has also been found to have an association with developing BPAD. (Healthline)
Works Cited
“Bipolar Disorder.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 13 Dec.
2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955#:~:text=Bipolar%20disorder%2C%20formerly%20called%20manic,or%20pleasure%20in%20most%20activities.
NHS Choices, NHS, www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/bipolar-disorder/treatment/. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.
“Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Treatments, Recovery Rates.” Mental Illness Policy Org, 23 Jan.
Legg, Timothy J. “Bipolar Disorder Risk Factors.” Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-risk-factors#possible-risk-factors.
Accessed 10 April 2024.
This post is not a substitute for professional advice. If you believe that you may be experiencing a medical emergency, please contact your primary care physician, or go to the nearest Emergency Room. Results from ongoing research is constantly evolving. This post contains information that was last updated on October 24, 2024.
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