Access The Right Treatment For Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition in which you will experience unusual changes in mood, energy, ability to sleep, and overall functioning. It was previously referred to as ‘manic depression’. It is normal to experience some changes in your mood, but Bipolar Disorder causes very intense and abrupt changes. This condition occurs because there is a chemical imbalance in the brain that makes it difficult to regulate the individual’s mood.

One of the major features of this condition is a manic phase. In this phase, you might experience increased confidence, impulsivity, talkativeness, sleeplessness, and joy. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania. This phase can last for hours, days, and sometimes even weeks. Another phase that occurs in Bipolar Disorder is a depressive phase, during which you will experience intense sadness, change in sleep & appetite, lethargy, and so on.

There are different types of Bipolar Disorder:

• Bipolar I Disorder: This type involves episodes of both, mania and depression. However, an episode of depression is not necessary for a diagnosis. The manic episodes might be severe enough to require hospitalisation.

• Bipolar II Disorder: This type involves hypomanic episodes (less intense form of mania) that last for a few days, but less than a week. Depressive episodes might also last for at least two weeks, which can be debilitating.

• Cyclothymic Disorder This disorder is often a precursor for Bipolar Disorder. It involves rapid shifts between hypomanic and mild depressive states, which can go on for a period of two years. There may be periods where the person might experience normal moods.

• Unspecified Bipolar Disorder If a person doesn’t meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I, II or cyclothymia but experiences severe episodes of mania, it’s considered as Unspecified Bipolar Disorder.

The exact cause of Bipolar Disorder is still unknown. However, researchers have hypothesised several possible reasons, such as:

Brain chemistry: A chemical imbalance in neurotransmitters like noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine in the brain can cause Bipolar Disorder. These chemicals are responsible for maintaining your mood, so when the natural balance of these chemicals is disrupted, it causes abrupt changes in your mood.

Genes: Genetics also play a very strong role in manifesting this disorder. This means that people in the same family are more likely to have this condition.

Environmental/Social factors: Social factors such as trauma, stressful triggers or life-altering events may also trigger Bipolar Disorder.

Bipolar Disorder, or Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD) is characterised by depressive episodes, hypomania & mania. Both mania and hypomania have similar symptoms, but the symptoms of mania are much more severe than that of hypomania. The symptoms of a manic episode may look like:

• Abnormally high energy & restlessness

• Unusually high confidence

• Sleeplessness and talkativeness

• Racing thoughts and getting easily distracted

• Impulsivity — for example, making bad investments

A depressive episode may show symptoms like persistent sadness, thoughts of death & suicide, change in sleep & apetitite, loss of joy, lethargy, difficulty in focusing, feelings of worthlessness & hopelessness.

In a mixed episode, you might experience the symptoms of both a manic and depressive episode at once. This means that you will experience symptoms like sleeplessness, high energy, restlessness along with persistent sadness, negative thoughts, and so on. It is often reported that mixed episodes are a very difficult part of living with this condition.

Yes, many people with bipolar disorder can live full, productive lives. With consistent and appropriate treatment (medication often combined with therapy), along with lifestyle adjustments and a strong support system, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and achieve stability.

Finding a completely free online psychiatrist consultation for ongoing treatment is rare. However, many mental health helplines in India (like Tele-MANAS) offer free initial tele-counselling or crisis support by trained professionals, who can then guide you on further steps, including referrals to psychiatrists.

Common therapies used to treat bipolar disorder include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Family-Focused Therapy. These therapies help individuals understand their condition, manage mood swings, and develop coping skills. However, therapy is usually combined with medication prescribed by a psychiatrist for managing bipolar disorder.