BIPOLAR I DISORDER – Here are the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatment for this mental health condition.
Bipolar I Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). It’s a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, swinging from highs to lows and back again.
Individuals with this condition also experience depressive episodes, which involve feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities, lasting for at least two weeks. These mood episodes may alternate with periods of stable mood or mixed episodes, where symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously.
It can greatly affect a person’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. It requires proper diagnosis and treatment, often involving medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, to manage symptoms effectively.
CAUSES
The exact causes of Bipolar I Disorder are not fully understood, but researchers believe that it is likely caused by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.
- Genetic predisposition
- Brain chemistry
- Biological factors
- Environmental triggers
- Hormonal changes
SYMPTOMS
Elevated mood – Feeling euphoric, overly happy, or extremely irritable.
Increased energy and activity – Being more active than usual, talking very fast, and having racing thoughts.
Decreased need for sleep: Feeling rested after only a few hours of sleep or not feeling the need to sleep at all.
Racing thoughts: Jumping from one idea to another, feeling easily distracted, and having trouble concentrating.
Persistent sadness – Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless for most of the day, nearly every day.
Loss of interest or pleasure – Losing interest in activities once enjoyed, including hobbies, socializing, or private moment.
Changes in appetite or weight – Significant changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or weight gain.
Sleep disturbances – Experiencing insomnia or oversleeping nearly every day.
Fatigue or loss of energy – Feeling tired, sluggish, or physically drained, even after restful sleep.
Thoughts of death or suicide: Having recurring thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm, or making suicidal plans or attempts.
TREATMENT
- Mood stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Psychoeducation
- Regular sleep schedule
- Healthy diet
- Exercise
- Stress management
- Support groups
- Family therapy