Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

• Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood changes.
• It is a lifelong condition, but symptoms can be managed with treatment.
• Characterized by episodes of:
  • Mania or hypomania (emotional highs)
  • Depression (emotional lows)
• Mood changes affect:
  • Energy levels
  • Activity
  • Sleep
  • Thinking and behaviour
• Around 37 million people worldwide live with bipolar disorder.

Complications of Bipolar Disorder

• Substance abuse problems
• Relationship and work difficulties
• Legal or financial issues
• Poor academic or job performance

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

• Manic / Hypomanic Episode (High Mood)
  • Increased energy or activity
  • Feeling overly happy or irritable
  • Reduced need for sleep
  • Fast talking and racing thoughts
  • Poor decision-making or risky behaviour
• Depressive Episode (Low Mood)
  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Sleep and appetite changes
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Types of Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar I Disorder
  • At least one manic episode
  • May include depressive episodes
• Bipolar II Disorder
  • Major depressive episodes + hypomania
  • No full manic episode
• Cyclothymic Disorder
  • Long-term periods of mild mood swings
  • Less severe symptoms lasting ≥2 years

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

• Genetic predisposition (family history)
• Brain structure and biological differences
• High stress or traumatic events
• Alcohol or drug misuse
• Psychological and social factors

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

• Medications
  • Mood stabilizers
  • Antipsychotic medicines
  • Antidepressants (carefully used)
• Psychological Therapy
  • Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Psychoeducation
• Lifestyle Management
  • Regular sleep routine
  • Stress management
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs
  • Ongoing medical follow-up