Bipolar disorder is known to cause changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks, called episodes. These mood episodes are categorized as manic/hypomanic (abnormally happy, irritable or aggressive mood) or depressive (sad mood). People with bipolar disorder generally have periods of neutral mood as well. When treated, people with bipolar disorder can lead full and productive lives.
People without bipolar disorder experience mood fluctuations as well. However, these mood changes typically last hours rather than days. Also, these changes are not usually accompanied by the extreme degree of change in behaviour or difficulty with daily routines and social interactions that people with bipolar disorder demonstrate during mood episodes.
Bipolar disorder is a category that includes three different diagnoses: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. If you would like to read more about these categories, read this article.
It is important to note that this condition can affect anyone, regardless of their circumstances, and its prevalence is often tied to other mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, depression, personality disorders, etc. and various general physical conditions, such as cancer, PCOD, chronic pain conditions, among others.
Considering that a single diagnosis of bipolar disorder (or related diagnoses) can present differently across individuals, ages, genders, populations, etc., it is suggested that professional support be sought for assessment and management of the symptoms as and when they show up.
Treatment options for Bipolar Disorder:
As this condition may show up in different categories and across a spectrum of severity, it is suggested that treatment be sought as soon as possible for a better prognosis, that is, the development (for better or for worse) of symptoms over time. Therapy and medications for the specific presenting symptoms (usually, a combination of the two) are known to be two of the most effective methods of treatment for this mental illness.
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