bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of mania, or hypomania, and depression. Mania is an overly "high" period. Hypomania is a milder form of mania. Depression is a "low" period.

 

People with bipolar I disorder have alternating episodes of mania and depression. Individuals with bipolar II disorder have alternating episodes of hypomania and depression. Four or more episodes of mood swings in a 12-month period is known as rapid-cycling bipolar disorder.

 

Bipolar disorder is a disorder of the brain. Researchers believe that chemicals called neurotransmitters are involved. Nerve impulses cause the release of neurotransmitters from one nerve cell to the next. This release allows cells to communicate with one another. Too little or too much of these important neurotransmitters may be released. This can cause or contribute to bipolar disorder. Some of the neurotransmitters believed to be linked to bipolar disorder are serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

 

When an individual is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder, the following symptoms may occur:

 

The depressive phase of this disorder is characterized by the following:

 

A manic or depressive episode may last from a few days to several months. Some people switch between moods several times each day.

 

Some people with bipolar disorder have episodes of psychosis. Psychosis is a significant mental disorder that has a physical or emotional source. Symptoms of psychosis may include hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations occur when a person hears or sees something that isn't really there. Delusions are false beliefs that aren't logical.

 

Some people have symptoms of a mixed bipolar state. These individuals are often agitated and very sad. They may have high energy. Psychosis and suicidal thinking are common in a mixed bipolar state.

 

Usually bipolar disorder first appears when the person is between the ages of 15 and 25. Teens who have had a major depressive episode are at greater risk for developing bipolar disorder in their late teens or 20s.

There is no known way to prevent bipolar disorder.

Diagnosis of bipolar disorder begins with a medical history and physical exam. If symptoms are extreme, the healthcare provider may diagnose bipolar I disorder. If symptoms are less intense and severe, a bipolar II diagnosis may be made.