BIPOLAR DISORDER

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary depending on whether an individual is experiencing a depressive episode or a manic episode. Here's an explanation of the common symptoms associated with each type of episode:

In a Depressive Episode:

• Depressed mood: Individuals with bipolar depression often experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair.

• Restlessness: Some people may feel agitated or restless during a depressive episode, finding it challenging to relax or sit still.

• Insomnia: Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, are common in depressive episodes.

• Fatigue: Persistent fatigue and low energy levels are typical symptoms of depression.

• Loss of interest: Individuals may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and may have difficulty finding pleasure in anything.

• Low self-esteem: Negative self-perception and feelings of worthlessness can contribute to low self-esteem during depressive episodes.

• Slowed speech and movements: Depressed individuals may speak and move more slowly than usual, exhibiting a lack of energy.

• Suicidal thoughts: Some people with bipolar depression may experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm. These thoughts should be taken seriously, and professional help should be sought immediately.

• Lethargy: A sense of extreme tiredness and physical and mental sluggishness is common in depressive episodes.

• Difficulty performing simple activities: Everyday tasks and responsibilities may become challenging to complete due to the lack of motivation and energy associated with depression.

In a Manic Episode:

• Racing and intrusive thoughts: Individuals in a manic episode often have a rapid flow of thoughts that can be difficult to control. These thoughts may jump from one topic to another.

• Insomnia: Manic episodes can lead to reduced need for sleep or difficulty falling asleep. Despite sleep deprivation, individuals may not feel tired.

• Exaggerated sense of well-being: During mania, individuals may experience an elevated mood, an increased sense of self-confidence, and a heightened belief in their abilities.

• Thoughts of superiority: Some people in a manic episode may believe they have special powers, knowledge, or abilities that set them apart from others.

• Increase in physical activity: Mania often leads to increased energy levels and a heightened desire to engage in physical activities, sometimes to an extreme degree.

• Trouble concentrating: Racing thoughts and an inability to focus or concentrate on one task are common in manic episodes.

• Rapid speech: Individuals in a manic episode may speak quickly and may have difficulty slowing down their speech.

• Erratic behaviour: Mania can lead to impulsive and erratic behaviour, such as overspending, risky sexual behaviour, or making grandiose plans.

There are several types of bipolar disorder, each involving different patterns of mood episodes: 

• Bipolar I Disorder: Individuals with Bipolar I experience manic episodes that can be severe and may last for at least a week. These manic episodes are often accompanied by depressive episodes that can last for at least two weeks. Some individuals with Bipolar I may also experience mixed episodes, which combine symptoms of both mania and depression.

• Bipolar II Disorder: Bipolar II involves less severe manic episodes called hypomania. Hypomanic episodes are shorter in duration and may not lead to significant impairment in functioning. Depressive episodes in Bipolar II are more common and can be severe.

• Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclothymic disorder is characterised by numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and mild depressive symptoms that persist for at least two years (for adults) or one year (for adolescents). However, the symptoms do not meet the criteria for a full manic or depressive episode.

• Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS): This category includes cases where symptoms of bipolar disorder do not fit the criteria for the above types but still involve significant mood fluctuations.

• Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders: These categories encompass various cases that don't fit the specific criteria for the other types of bipolar disorder but still involve mood disturbances.

Causes of bipolar disorder can be influenced by various factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition: A family history of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders may increase the risk.

• Chemical imbalance within the brain: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can affect mood regulation.

• Environmental factors: Stressful life events, such as significant life changes or chronic stress, can contribute to the onset of bipolar disorder.

• Brain structure: Structural abnormalities or differences in the brain may be associated with the disorder.

• Traumatic life events or extreme stress: Experiencing traumatic events or prolonged periods of extreme stress can trigger bipolar symptoms in some individuals.

• Substance abuse: The misuse of drugs or alcohol can exacerbate or trigger episodes of bipolar disorder.

• Childhood trauma: Early-life trauma or adverse childhood experiences may increase vulnerability to mood disorders.

• Inflammation: Some research suggests that inflammation in the body may be linked to bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is typically managed with a combination of medications to stabilise mood and reduce the frequency and severity of mood episodes. The choice of medication depends on the specific type and phase of bipolar disorder a person is experiencing. Here are explanations of some common medications used to treat bipolar disorder:

• Symbyax: Symbyax is a combination medication that contains two active ingredients: fluoxetine (an antidepressant) and olanzapine (an antipsychotic). It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bipolar depression. The combination of these two drugs can help manage depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder.

• Lithobid (Lithium): Lithium is a mood stabilizer and is considered a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder. It helps regulate mood swings, reducing the frequency and severity of both manic and depressive episodes. Regular blood tests are often necessary to monitor lithium levels in the blood and ensure safe and effective treatment.

• Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that may be used in the short term to manage acute symptoms of agitation, anxiety, or sleep disturbances during manic or mixed episodes of bipolar disorder. They can help calm excessive excitement or restlessness. However, benzodiazepines are typically used with caution due to the risk of dependence and sedation.

Natural approaches and lifestyle habits can complement medical treatment for bipolar disorder and contribute to overall well-being. Here's an explanation of the natural treatment options and strategies that may be helpful for individuals with bipolar disorder:

• Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercise, can have a positive impact on mood and overall mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical-behaviour therapy (DBT), or individual and group therapy, can provide valuable tools and coping strategies for managing mood swings, recognising triggers, and improving emotional regulation.

• Well-balanced diet: Eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet can support overall physical and mental health. Some individuals with bipolar disorder may benefit from dietary adjustments, including reducing caffeine and sugar intake, as these substances can affect mood and energy levels.

• Good sleep habits: Establishing a consistent sleep routine and practising good sleep hygiene can help stabilise mood and reduce the risk of manic or depressive episodes. Adequate and restorative sleep is essential for individuals with bipolar disorder.

• Yoga or meditation: Mindfulness-based practices like yoga and meditation can help individuals with bipolar disorder manage stress, improve self-awareness, and enhance emotional regulation. These practices promote relaxation and may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs: Substance use can exacerbate mood swings and interfere with medication effectiveness. Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs is essential for managing bipolar disorder and preventing relapse.

• Recognise triggers: Identifying personal triggers for mood episodes is an important part of self-management. By recognising specific stressors or situations that can lead to mood swings, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate their impact and develop strategies for coping effectively.