| Topics Index |
| TOPIC : |
Bipolar Disorder |
| DISCUSSION : |
Bipolar Disorder also known as manic depressive illness, it is a disorder of the brain that is characterized by mood swings, changes in energy and activity levels, and difficulty in carrying out daily activities. Development of this disorder is usually seen in the late teen and early adult years. Phases range from over excitement known as the manic phase or mania, to sad and even hopeless states known as the depressive phase or depression. These mood shifts can last from weeks to months and may cause turbulence in the relationships of those affected by the disorder. In addition to the mania and depression bipolar disorder is also characterized by mood instability. There may be periods that appear as “normal”. It is a life long illness, requiring treatment as any other chronic illness (National Institute of Mental Health, 2009a). There are different types of bipolar disorders requiring professional evaluation for diagnosis. Research has identified a biological link between family members; identifying genetics as a determining factor in the development of bipolar disorder (Kay, Tasman, & Lieberman, 2000) Bipolar disorder may also be associated with drug and alcohol abuse and dependency; as evidenced by a high prevalence rate of substance abuse in patients with bipolar disorders. Treatment and medications for bipolar disorders become more complicated when substance abuse is present (Vornik & Brown, 2006). Bipolar disorder usually appears in adolescence or early adulthood; although cases of bipolar disorder have also been diagnosed later in life (Kay et al., 2000). Diagnosis is made on the basis of evaluations of the patient history, physical examination and laboratory studies to rule out other causes of the symptoms (Kay et al., 2000). Symptoms: Note that symptoms must be differentiated from other disorders; this requires the consultation of a professional. • Distinct periods of abnormally elevated or irritable mood • More talkative • Inflated self esteem • Decreased need for sleep • Distinct Mood patterns that shift from euphoria to extreme sadness or depression (Kay et al., 2000; National Institute of Mental Health, 2009a). Treatment of bipolar disorder may pose challenges in different age groups. There is no cure, so management of the disease involves life long therapy. Treatment usually includes medications such as mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics or antidepressants. Medication may be coupled with psychotherapy, which is identified as an effective treatment mode for bipolar disorder. These are usually implemented through a licensed counselor, psychologist or social worker in collaboration with a psychiatrist (National Institute of Mental Health, 2009b).
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| RESOURCES : |
Kay, J., Tasman, A., & Lieberman, J. (Eds.). (2000). Psychiatry: Behavioral science and clinical essentials. Philadelphia: W. B. Saunders. National Institute of Mental Health. (2009a). Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved May 13, 2009. from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml. National Institute of Mental Health. (2009b). How is bipolar disorder treated? Retrieved May 13, 2009. from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/how-is-bipolar-disorder-treated.shtml. Vornik, L., & Brown, E. (2006). Management of comorbid bipolar disorder and substance abuse. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 67, 24-30. |
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