Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder can be psychological and physiological, and impact daily functioning. The condition is considered life-long, however psychiatric and psychological treatment can be very effective to manage symptoms.
Manic Episodes are characterised by feelings of excessive happiness, energy, or irritability. Increased activity may be present, or symptoms of psychosis (delusions or hallucinations, for example). Impulsive or risky behaviour may be of concern.
During a depressive episode, feelings of sadness, hopelessness or indifference will be present, alongside low energy, motivation, and social withdrawal. Thoughts of self-harm, death, or suicide may occur.
Other symptoms include cognitive difficulties, such as impaired concentration, memory, or decision-making.
Bipolar disorder is influenced by genetic and biochemical factors, and can be triggered by the environment (such as stressful life events).
Bipolar Disorder can be described as ‘Rapid cycling’ between manic and depressive symptoms. ‘Mixed features’ suggests that symptoms of both Bipolar I and II are present. ‘Seasonal patterns’ means that mood fluctuations co-occur with the time of year. ‘Unspecified’ Bipolar Disorder refers to symptoms that don’t quite fit into the classification of any other types of the disorder.
Cyclothymia (or Cyclothymic Disorder) is a mood disorder that causes emotional fluctuations, including both hypomanic and depressive episodes over the course of two years or more. Symptoms are typically not as severe as those seen in Bipolar I and II disorders.
These variations in Bipolar Disorder do not mean that the symptoms are any less difficult than others’, and they do still require treatment and support.
To be diagnosed with Bipolar Type 1, you will have experienced at least one episode of mania, which has lasted longer than a week. You may have experienced some depressive episodes too, but not everybody does.
A diagnosis of Bipolar Type 2 would mean that you have experienced at least one depressive episode and symptoms of hypomania that have lasted at least four days.
Diagnosis can take some time, as individuals tend to be diagnosed and treated for the presenting problem, such as Depression, rather than the longer-term fluctuations in mood state. If you suspect that you, or a loved one, may be experiencing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, please contact your GP or a Psychiatrist in the first instance to discuss this further.
Psychotherapy can help to manage symptoms alongside medication. DBT skills help to regulate emotion fluctuations and cope with distress. CBT can help to identify triggers, and patterns in thinking, feeling, and behaviour over time that may contribute to changes in mood. Practical CBT skills can help to reduce symptoms of depression.
If you are unable to keep yourself or others safe, please call your local mental health crisis team, go directly to A&E, or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Unsplash: Brooke Cagle