Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder And Its Types
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition, typically characterised by a cycle of depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. Mania is a state of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and increased talkativeness. Hypomania is similar to mania but less severe.
A person experiencing hypomania may feel extremely good, be highly productive, and take on multiple projects at once. However, they may also be impulsive, irritable and have difficulty sleeping.
Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
During periods of mania or hypomania, a person with bipolar disorder may experience:
incredible ‘highs’ or euphoria
delusions of self-importance
high levels of creativity, energy and activity
less sleep or no sleep
poor appetite and weight loss
racing thoughts, racing speech, talking over people
high irritability, impatience or aggressiveness
inappropriate sexual activity or risk taking
dressing more colourfully and being less inhibited
impulsiveness and making poor choices in spending or business
grand and unrealistic plans
poor concentration, easily distracted
delusions, hallucinations.
During depressive episodes, a person with bipolar disorder may experience:
feelings of sadness or hopelessness
loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities
withdrawal from family and friends
sleep problems (often excessive sleep)
loss of energy, feeling exhausted
physical slowing
low self-esteem
feelings of guilt
problems concentrating
suicidal thoughts.
Different types of bipolar disorder
There are four types of bipolar disorder explained here. The two main types of bipolar disorder are Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Cyclothymic disorder and substance-induced bipolar disorder are also recognised, though less common types of bipolar disorder.
Bipolar I
People with Bipolar I disorder experience mania and periods of depressive symptoms.
Bipolar II
People with Bipolar II disorder experience less extreme highs (known as hypomania), and periods of depressive symptoms.
Cyclothymic disorder
Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, is similar to but less severe than Bipolar I and II. Specifically, people with cyclothymic disorder experience periods of low mood or mild depression and periods of hypomania that are typically less severe or long-lasting than those experiencing bipolar I or II.
Substance-induced bipolar disorder
Substance-induced bipolar disorder occurs when a person experiences a noticeable and persistent disturbance in mood, with high or irritable mood, after substance use or withdrawal.
Causes of bipolar disorder
The causes of bipolar disorder are not always the same for every person. The main causes are usually a combination of factors including genetics, environmental factors, physical illnesses and substances.
Although there is not a specific gene which causes bipolar disorder, it has been found to be passed from parent to child. If one parent has bipolar, there is a 10% chance their child will be diagnosed with bipolar. If both parents have bipolar, this chance increases to 40%.
Environmental factors which may trigger bipolar disorder include stressful life events and seasonal factors – such as a rapid increase in hours of bright sunshine, which affects the pineal gland.
Physical illnesses can, in some cases, cause symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, such as mania or hypomania.
Certain substances can lead to a high which resembles mania or hypomania. Examples of such substances include antidepressants, very large amounts of caffeine, and cocaine, ecstasy or amphetamines.
Treatments for bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder needs careful and ongoing treatment to be managed effectively. The first step is to speak with a GP, who can help determine if a person’s mood changes are indicative of bipolar disorder. They may make a referral to a specialist, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, for expert long-term management. Taking a team approach that includes support from your GP, psychologists, psychiatrist and family is one of the best ways to effectively manage bipolar disorder.
Initial treatment may include prescription of medication by a medical professional such as a GP or psychiatrist, to stabilise someone currently experiencing mania or depression. Ongoing treatment may focus on psychological and lifestyle approaches which will help people diagnosed with bipolar disorder improve their quality of life.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can be used to treat bipolar disorder. This therapy can help people identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior, which can help to reduce symptoms of depression and mania.
It can also be helpful for people with bipolar disorder to establish a regular routine, including regular sleep patterns, eating habits, and exercise routines.
It's important to note that having bipolar disorder does not define a person and it's important to not make generalisations or stereotypes about someone based on their diagnosis. It's also important for friends and family to be supportive and understanding of their loved one's condition, and to encourage them to seek help if they need it.