Understanding bipolar disorder: Navigating the swings of mood
Have you ever heard someone say, ‘you’re so bipolar’ or ‘she’s got such a bipolar personality’? That’s not really how bipolar disorder works. In reality, according to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), to meet the criteria for bipolar disorder one should present with impulsivity, unstable sense of self, paranoia, feelings of emptiness and a vulnerability to abandonment, to name a few. Yet, in today’s society, it has become a pop culture label stuck onto people who are probably presenting with mood swings, or just having a bad day. World Bipolar Day aims to reduce such stereotypes and improve sensitivity through increasing awareness to bipolar disorder.
So, in today’s blog, I’m hoping to contribute to this initiative through shining a light on what bipolar disorder actually is.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as bipolar affective disorder, is a mood disorder, which in the past was known as manic depression. Bipolar disorder can lead to severe fluctuations in mood, alternating between intense highs and lows. It manifests in distinct episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated mood and energy) and depression (low mood and energy). These episodes can vary in duration and intensity, and individuals may experience periods of relative stability between them
Manic symptoms can include:
· increased energy
· excitement/increased confidence/grandiosity
· impulsive behaviour – decision making/reckless spending/saying or doing inappropriate things
· agitation
· risk seeking behaviour
Depressive symptoms can include:
· lack of energy
· lack of self-worth
· low self-esteem
· suicidal ideation.
Hypomania is typically characterized by a prolonged period of unusually heightened mood, situated between a stable, content state and full-blown mania. While hypomania may bring a sense of intense pleasure, if left unaddressed, it can escalate into a frightening manic episode. Recognizing and effectively managing hypomanic symptoms before they progress to mania poses a significant challenge for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Hypomanic symptoms can include:
· high levels of energy
· increased creativity and productivity
· sleep very little
· being excessively friendly/talking a lot
What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder remains unclear, but it's believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Certain neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain may contribute to mood dysregulation, while stressful life events or traumatic experiences can trigger episodes in predisposed individuals.
The heritability of bipolar disorder varies widely among families, with some showing a strong genetic predisposition while others do not. Researchers have yet to fully understand the reasons behind this variation, though some suggest it could be related to early-life exposure to adversity. This exposure, potentially stemming from unmanaged bipolar symptoms in a parent may contribute to the development of the disorder in subsequent generations.
Types of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder presents in several forms as classified by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The most common types of Bipolar are:
Bipolar I disorder: Characterized by at least one manic episode, often accompanied by depressive or hypomanic episodes.
Bipolar II disorder: Involves recurrent episodes of hypomania and depression, with no history of full-blown mania.
Cyclothymic disorder: Marked by numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that don't meet criteria for major depressive episodes, persisting for at least two years in adults (or one year in adolescents).
Understanding these subtypes aids in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches, enhancing support for individuals managing bipolar disorder.
Managing bipolar disorder
Effective management of bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants may be prescribed to help stabilize mood fluctuations. Talking therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy, can assist individuals in developing coping strategies and improving interpersonal relationships. This can include learning emotion regulation, identifying and exploring underlying core beliefs and assumptions, increasing a sense of self-worth and rebuilding trust and confidence in oneself and others.
Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a crucial role in managing bipolar symptoms. This includes getting regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, practicing stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga, and prioritizing adequate sleep hygiene.
Support and self-care
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but support from friends, family, and mental health professionals can make a significant difference. Building a strong support network, attending support groups, and educating oneself about the condition can help individuals feel less isolated and better equipped to cope with their symptoms.
Self-care practices are also essential for managing bipolar disorder effectively. This may involve setting realistic goals, practicing self-compassion, and learning to recognize and respond to early warning signs of mood changes.
Ending stigma and seeking help
It's crucial to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage open dialogue about bipolar disorder. By understanding its symptoms, causes, and management strategies, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for those affected by the disorder. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards better mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder, then feel free to book in a free consultation with us at MAPP Psychology to speak one of our Psychologists today.
-Dr. Amirah Khan