Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness or manic depression, is a mental illness that causes unusual and dramatic shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, the ability to think clearly, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. People with bipolar disorder have extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood changes differ from the typical ups and downs most people experience. With mania, people may feel extremely irritable or euphoric. People living with bipolar disorder may experience several extremes, such as agitation, sleeplessness and talkativeness or sadness and hopelessness. They may also have extreme pleasure-seeking or risk-taking behaviors. Mood shifts may occur only a few times a year or as often as several times a week.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe and can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. The symptoms and the severity of mania or depression vary widely among individuals with the disorder.

The causes of bipolar disorder are not clear, but it tends to run in families. Abnormal brain structure and function may also play a role. Bipolar disorder often starts in a person's late teen or early adult years, and the average age of onset is 25. Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally.

Bipolar disorder is treated and managed in with several approaches, often in combination, including medications, such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and antidepressants; psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and family-focused therapy; electroconvulsive therapy; self-management strategies and education; and complementary health approaches such as mediation and spiritual support.

If left untreated, the symptoms usually get worse. However, with a lifestyle that includes self-management and a good treatment plan, many people live well with the condition and lead full and productive lives.

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but several factors may be involved, such as biological differences, imbalances in neurotransmitters, and inherited traits.

The chances of developing bipolar disorder are increased if a person's parents or siblings have the disorder. But the role of genetics in bipolar disorder has not been confirmed. A child from a family with a history of bipolar disorder may never develop the disorder. And studies of identical twins have found that even if one twin develops the disorder the other may not.

A stressful event such as a death in the family, an illness, a difficult relationship or financial problems can trigger the first bipolar episode. Therefore, an individual’s style of handling stress may also play a role in the development of the illness. In some cases, drug abuse can trigger bipolar disorder.

Brain scans cannot diagnose bipolar disorder in an individual. However, researchers have identified subtle differences in the average size or activation of some brain structures in people with bipolar disorder. While brain structure alone may not cause it, there are some conditions in which damaged brain tissue can predispose a person. Concussions and traumatic head injuries can increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder.

Talk with a doctor if you have extreme mood swings between highs and lows that affect your life. Seek emergency help or call/text 988 for thoughts of self-harm or reckless behavior during a manic episode.