Bipolar Quiz

WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER?

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that causes abrupt mood shifts. The extreme mood swings can cause a great deal of difficulty in the life of the individual with bipolar disorder, causing depleted energy and activity levels, disrupted sleep, and general disruption in daily life.

SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

Symptoms of bipolar include both manic and depressive episodes, each with its own features:

Symptoms of Mania:

Rapid talking
Burst of energy
Euphoria
Increased activity
Insomnia
Agitation
Irritability
Risk-taking behaviors

Symptoms of Depression:

Low mood, feelings of sadness and despair
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in eating habits
Changes in sleeping habits
Loss of interest in life
Fatigue
Slowed thoughts and movements
Feelings of guilt or shame
Thoughts of suicide

TYPES OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

There are variations of bipolar disorder. These are the four ways bipolar can manifest itself:

Bipolar I. Bipolar I involves one or more manic episodes, with or without depressive episodes. The mania must be severe enough to require hospitalization and must last a week or longer.
Bipolar II. Bipolar II disorder features mood shifts between the less severe hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.
Cyclothymic disorder. Cyclothymic disorder features ongoing mood shifts between depressive and hypomanic that persist for more than two years.
Otherwise unspecified bipolar disorder. Unspecified bipolar disorder is present when the symptoms do not fit into the other three categories but with episodes of unusual manic mood.

It is good to also be aware of the high incidence of co-occurring substance use disorder with bipolar disorder, especially alcohol abuse. The substance is used to subdue the symptoms of intense mood states.

TREATMENT FOR BIPOLAR DISORDER

Although so far there is no known cure for bipolar disorder, there are some very effective methods of managing this mental health condition. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from friends and family members. Treatments include:

Psychotherapy
Participating in both individual and group therapy sessions can help immensely. Therapy focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-focused therapies.
Medication
There are specific medications that can manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder, such as lithium, anticonvulsants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and beta-blockers.
Healthy Lifestyle
Establishing healthy habits and a predictable daily routine can be helpful in curbing mood swings. These include getting sufficient sleep, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and maintaining a nutritious diet, which helps improve quality of life.