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34 HEALTH AWEMainta Diahuebs, 14 September 2023

Bipolar Disorder:

Navigating the Highs and Lows of Mood

BIPOLAR disorder is a complex mental health condition ters like serotonin and dopamine also play a role in mood
characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood, energy, regulation.

and activity levels. Formerly known as manic-depres-
sive illness, it affects millions of people worldwide. This Diagnosis and Treatment
article delves into the various aspects of bipolar disorder, Diagnosing bipolar disorder can be challenging due to its
including its symptoms, types, causes, and management. varying symptoms. A thorough psychiatric evaluation is

essential. Treatment often involves a combination of ther-
Types of Bipolar Disorder apies.
There are several types of bipolar disorder, but the most
common ones are Bipolar I and Bipolar II. 1. Medications: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and

antidepressants can help manage symptoms. Finding the
I. Bipolar I Disorder: This is marked by manic episodes right medication regimen can take time.
that last for at least seven days and often involve depres-
sive episodes as well. Manic episodes are characterized 2. Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

by heightened energy, impulsivity, and sometimes delu- and interpersonal therapy (IPT) can help individuals cope
sions or hallucinations. with mood swings and improve relationships.

II. Bipolar II Disorder: Unlike Bipolar I, Bipolar II involves 3. Lifestyle Changes: Regular sleep patterns, stress

milder manic episodes known as hypomania. These management, and avoiding alcohol or drug use are vital.
periods are less severe but still disrupt daily life and can
alternate with depressive episodes. 4. Support System: Building a strong support network
of family and friends can provide emotional assistance

Symptoms during both manic and depressive episodes.
Bipolar disorder symptoms can vary widely, but
typically include: Conclusion
• Manic/Hypomanic Symptoms: Bipolar disorder is a life-

Increased energy, racing long condition that requires
thoughts, decreased need ongoing management. With
for sleep, excessive talking, the right treatment and
risky behavior, and elevated support, individuals with

mood. bipolar disorder can lead
• Depressive Symptoms: fulfilling lives.
Persistent sadness, loss Early diagnosis and
of interest in activities, intervention are key to

changes in appetite or improving outcomes
sleep patterns, and and helping those
thoughts of death affected by this
or suicide. challenging

mental health
Causes condition.
The exact cause of If you or someone you
bipolar disorder remains know is experiencing

unclear, but it likely symptoms of bipolar
results from a combina- disorder, seeking profes-
tion of genetic, biological, sional help is crucial for
and environmental factors. It tends to run effective management and a better

in families, suggesting a genetic predis- quality of life.
position. Imbalances in neurotransmit-