Bipolar disorder affects about 2.8% of adults in the U.S., showing how common this mental health issue is¹. It brings big mood, energy, and activity changes. Knowing the signs and treatments is key for those with the disorder and their families.

This condition used to be called manic-depressive illness. It makes a person’s mood, energy, and how well they function change a lot¹. These mood swings can go from very high to very low, affecting work and personal life. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment is vital for handling symptoms and living better.

Key Takeaways

• Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition with big mood swings, from highs to lows.
• Symptoms usually start in late teens or early twenties¹.
• There are three main types: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder.
• Treatment often mixes medicines and therapy.
• Keeping up with treatment and check-ups is important for staying stable and well.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes big mood swings, changes in energy, and activity levels². People with this disorder go through periods of mania, hypomania, and depression. These episodes can really affect how they live their daily lives and their overall happiness.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are different types of bipolar disorder, like bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder³. Bipolar I disorder is when someone has manic episodes that last over a week and also has depressive episodes that last at least two weeks³. Bipolar II disorder is when someone has depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes that are not as severe³. Cyclothymic disorder is when someone has ongoing hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don’t meet the full criteria for episodes³.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder have mood episodes that are way off from their usual feelings and actions². When they’re in a manic episode, they might feel super energized, irritable, and don’t need much sleep². But, in a depressive episode, they might feel really down, sad, and not interested in doing anything². Some folks with bipolar disorder also have mixed episodes, where they feel both manic and depressive at the same time³.

Everyone with bipolar disorder shows different symptoms, and these can change over time². Manic episodes can lead to a break from reality (psychosis)². People with bipolar II disorder might have longer depressive periods, which can really slow them down². Sadly, many with bipolar disorder think about suicide or act on those thoughts²³⁴.

Symptoms of Manic and Depressive Episodes

Bipolar disorder brings extreme mood swings, with episodes of mania and depression⁵. These episodes can last for days or more⁵. Some people cycle quickly between highs and lows⁵. Others may have more frequent and severe episodes⁵.

Symptoms of Manic Episodes

During a manic episode, people feel very energetic and happy or very upset⁵. They might not sleep much, talk fast, have racing thoughts, and feel they can do many things at once⁵. Hypomanic episodes are a milder form of mania⁶.

Symptoms of Depressive Episodes

Depressive episodes bring feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness⁵. People may have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or making decisions⁵. They might lose interest in things they used to enjoy⁵. Thoughts of death or suicide are common during these times⁶.

Some people with bipolar disorder experience symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time, known as a mixed state⁶. Others may have periods of normal mood between episodes⁶.

Bipolar disorder makes it hard to keep a job and maintain relationships because of its extreme nature⁵. People with this condition are also at higher risk of substance abuse and suicide⁵⁶⁷.

“Bipolar disorder is a complex and challenging condition, but with the right treatment and support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.”

Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

Getting the right diagnosis is key to getting the right treatment for bipolar disorder. Doctors do a detailed check-up that includes a physical exam, tests, and a deep look into mental health to spot this complex condition⁸.

Diagnosis looks at a person’s whole life history of symptoms and family health background⁸. It’s very important to correctly diagnose bipolar disorder, especially in young people. Wrong diagnosis can lead to bad or ineffective treatment⁸.

Doctors pay close attention to mood swings, energy, sleep, and how well someone functions. They ask about alcohol or drug use and if there are thoughts of suicide⁸. Friends or family can give great insights into how the symptoms affect daily life⁸.

Doctors also use special questionnaires and checklists to measure mood symptoms⁹. Blood and urine tests help rule out other health issues that might be causing mood or behavior changes⁹.

MRIs or CT scans are not usually used to diagnose bipolar disorder but might be to check for other brain issues⁹. Researchers are looking into EEGs and MRI scans to tell bipolar disorder from other conditions⁹.

Getting a correct diagnosis of bipolar disorder and a detailed mental health evaluation is crucial. It makes sure people get the right treatment and support for this ongoing condition⁸¹⁰.

Bipolar Disorder and Other Conditions

Many people with bipolar disorder also face other mental health issues. In fact, 30 to 50 percent of those with bipolar 1 or 2 may develop a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) at some point¹¹. About 20 percent of those with bipolar disorder also have Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and vice versa¹¹. Sadly, 40 percent of people with BPD were first thought to have bipolar 2¹¹.

It’s common for bipolar disorder to be paired with other mental health conditions. 10 to 20 percent of those with bipolar disorder also have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)¹¹. Young people with ADHD are at a higher risk of getting bipolar disorder later on¹¹. Bipolar disorder can also show symptoms like hallucinations or delusions, which match the person’s mood swings¹².

It’s important to understand all the symptoms and family history to diagnose bipolar disorder correctly. A detailed check-up and a full treatment plan are key for those with bipolar disorder and other conditions.

“Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that can often co-occur with other mental health challenges. Recognizing and addressing these comorbidities is key to providing the most holistic and effective care.”

Risk Factors for Bipolar Disorder

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is still a mystery, but many factors are linked to a higher risk¹³. Researchers have found biological, genetic, and environmental factors that might lead to bipolar disorder.

Having a first-degree relative with bipolar disorder is a big risk factor¹⁴. Kids of parents with bipolar disorder face a 10%-25% chance of getting it themselves. If both parents have it, the risk jumps to 10%-50%¹⁴. If one twin gets it, the other twin’s risk is 40%-70%¹⁴.

Using substances and alcohol can also raise the risk of bipolar disorder¹³¹⁴. About 60% of those with bipolar disorder also struggle with drug or alcohol dependence¹³.

High stress or traumatic events can trigger bipolar disorder¹⁴¹⁵. Stressful times, especially in childhood, can make some people more likely to develop it¹⁵.

Some medical conditions, like seasonal depression or anxiety, might increase the risk too¹³. Researchers are looking into how brain scans like fMRI and PET might show differences in bipolar disorder brains¹³.

Bipolar disorder comes from a mix of genetics, biology, and environment. Knowing these risk factors helps in spotting and treating it early.

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Treating bipolar disorder often means using medications for bipolar disorder and psychotherapy for bipolar disorder together. Doctors usually prescribe mood stabilizers like lithium and valproic acid, and sometimes antipsychotics to manage symptoms¹⁶. It’s important to keep taking your medicine, even when you’re feeling good, because bipolar disorder needs constant care.

Medication for Bipolar Disorder

Doctors often give mood stabilizers and antipsychotics to help control manic and depressive episodes¹⁶. Sometimes, antidepressants are used, but with caution, as they can make manic episodes worse¹⁷. For pregnant women with bipolar disorder, some medicines like valproic acid can be risky for the baby, so talking to a doctor before and during pregnancy is key¹⁶.

Psychotherapy for Bipolar Disorder

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a big part of treating bipolar disorder. Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy and family-focused therapy help change negative thoughts and improve moods¹⁶. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) helps with mood by setting daily routines¹⁶. Learning about the condition and how to manage it is also crucial for patients and their families¹⁶.

If regular treatments don’t work or are risky, other options like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) might be considered¹⁶. For kids and teens with bipolar disorder, treatment is tailored to their needs, combining medicines and long-term therapy for better mental health¹⁶.

“Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management, but with the right combination of medications and psychotherapy, individuals can learn to thrive and live fulfilling lives.”

Mood Stabilizers for Bipolar Depression

Mood stabilizers are key in treating bipolar disorder¹⁸. Lithium is a top choice, showing effects in a few weeks¹⁹. Other options include valproic acid, divalproex sodium, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine¹⁹. These drugs help manage both manic and depressive episodes.

Lithium is often the first choice for bipolar disorder¹⁹. It helps with manic episodes and can prevent mood swings¹⁹. But, it needs regular blood checks because it can affect the kidneys and thyroid²⁰. Doctors must check your health and run tests before starting lithium²⁰.

Valproic acid and similar drugs like divalproex sodium are also common¹⁹. They help with mood control but can be risky in pregnancy²⁰. It’s crucial to have liver tests when taking valproic acid²⁰.

Lamotrigine and carbamazepine are other options, but they can cause serious side effects²⁰.

These drugs are usually taken long-term to prevent mood swings¹⁹. It’s important to follow the doctor’s advice and not stop taking them without a reason¹⁸.

In short, medications like lithium, valproic acid, and others are crucial for bipolar disorder¹⁸. They manage the ups and downs of the condition, but watch out for side effects¹⁹²⁰.

Neuroleptic Medications for Bipolar Disorder

Doctors often use second-generation or atypical antipsychotic drugs, called neuroleptics, with a mood stabilizer. This helps manage manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder²¹. Cariprazine, lurasidone, olanzapine-fluoxetine, and quetiapine are approved for bipolar depression. Others like olanzapine, risperidone, and aripiprazole are used off-label²².

Antipsychotic drugs help control symptoms like hallucinations and mania in bipolar disorder²¹. They can also be used for sleep, anxiety, and agitation²¹. Newer drugs act fast and prevent impulsive behaviors during mania²¹.

• Some antipsychotics can cause weight gain, high cholesterol, and diabetes risk²¹.
• Side effects include sedation, weight gain, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision²¹.
• Clozaril is effective but rare side effects make it less used²¹.
• Geodon may cause a rare but dangerous skin reaction²¹.
• Older drugs like chlorpromazine, haloperidol, and perphenazine are not first choices for bipolar disorder. They have a higher risk of tardive dyskinesia²¹.
• Deutetrabenazine (Austedo) and valbenazine (Ingrezza) help treat tardive dyskinesia in adults²¹.

Atypical antipsychotics like cariprazine, lurasidone, and olanzapine-fluoxetine are often prescribed with mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder. These drugs can have side effects, so it’s important to monitor and screen patients carefully²².

Antidepressants for Bipolar Disorder

Doctors often prescribe antidepressants with mood stabilizers to help with depression in people with bipolar disorder. But, it’s key to know that antidepressants shouldn’t be taken by themselves. They can cause manic or hypomanic episodes. Traditional antidepressants have not been proven to work better than a placebo for bipolar I. In some cases, they might make symptoms worse or cause rapid cycling²³.

For bipolar depression, taking antidepressants alone can lead to rapid cycling in some people²⁴. Research shows that mixing antidepressants with mood stabilizers like lithium doesn’t help more with bipolar depression²⁴. Yet, antidepressants like SSRIs are often given with mood stabilizers for bipolar depression²³.

Side Effects of Bipolar Medications

Antidepressants can help some people with bipolar depression by improving nerve cell function through serotonin. But, they also have side effects²³. Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, nervousness, insomnia, diarrhea, rash, agitation, sexual problems, and weight changes²³. SSRIs and other antidepressants can also cause mania in people with bipolar disorder. This means close watch is needed for mood changes or suicidal thoughts²⁵.

Tell your healthcare provider about any side effects. They might need to change your medication²³. New antidepressants like Vilazodone and vortioxetine work on serotonin transporters and other brain receptors²³. But, it can take weeks for antidepressants to work, and you might need to try different ones to find what works best²³.

“Antidepressants should never be used alone in the treatment of bipolar disorder, as they can trigger manic episodes. Careful monitoring and collaboration with a healthcare provider is essential when using these medications.”

Other Medical Treatments for Bipolar Disorder

People with bipolar disorder can also try other treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), low-dose ketamine infusions, and thyroid medications²⁶. These options are used when standard treatments don’t work or when symptoms need quick control²⁶.

ECT sends a brief electric current to the brain to cause a seizure. It’s very effective for severe bipolar depression²⁶. TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate brain areas. It helps with depression and mania in bipolar disorder²⁶.

Ketamine infusions are a new hope for bipolar depression²⁶. They can quickly ease depression and help those with suicidal thoughts²⁶. Thyroid medications, like levothyroxine, might be given to fix thyroid issues that affect mood²⁶.

In serious cases, hospital care is needed to keep people safe and stable²⁶. In the hospital, doctors can watch over the patient, change treatments as needed, and give full care during the crisis²⁶.

Treatment	Description	Potential Benefits
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)	A procedure that delivers a brief electric current to the brain, inducing a controlled seizure	Highly effective in treating severe or treatment-resistant bipolar depression
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)	Uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain	Can help reduce symptoms of both depression and mania in bipolar disorder
Ketamine Infusions	Low-dose ketamine administered intravenously	Can rapidly alleviate depressive symptoms, including suicidal thoughts
Thyroid Medications	Medications like levothyroxine to address thyroid imbalances	Can help stabilize mood in individuals with bipolar disorder
Hospitalization	Inpatient care for severe or emergency situations	Ensures safety, close monitoring, and comprehensive treatment

These treatments offer more choices for those who don’t get better with usual treatments or need quick help²⁶. It’s key to work closely with a doctor to find the best treatment for you²⁶.

“Exploring alternative treatments can be a game-changer for individuals with bipolar disorder who are not finding relief from standard therapies.”

While these treatments can work well, it’s important to think about the risks and benefits with a mental health expert²⁶. Working closely with your healthcare team is key to safely and effectively managing bipolar disorder²⁶.

In summary, besides medications and therapy, people with bipolar disorder might also try ECT, TMS, ketamine infusions, thyroid medications, and hospital care in serious cases. These options can help manage the complex symptoms of bipolar disorder²⁶²⁷²⁸.

Psychotherapies for Bipolar Depression

Psychotherapy is key in treating bipolar disorder. It includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), and Family-Focused Therapy. These methods help manage bipolar depression well.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people with bipolar change negative thoughts. It teaches coping skills to prevent mood swings²⁹. A study found CBT improved life for those with bipolar depression over 9 months²⁹.

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) stabilizes daily routines. It helps with sleep, meals, and social life. This led to better mood for 62.4% of people with bipolar I disorder in a 2-year study²⁹.

Family-Focused Therapy gets family involved in treatment. It improves communication and problem-solving. This led to a 79.8% better medication use rate²⁹.

These therapies offer support and skills for those with bipolar depression²⁹. A review of studies showed up to 81.9% success in preventing relapse²⁹.

Psychotherapy and medication are key for treating bipolar disorder. They address cognitive, interpersonal, and social issues. This helps people with bipolar depression live better lives³⁰.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that requires ongoing care. With the right treatment, many people can manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives³¹. It’s one of the top 10 causes of disability worldwide, affecting about 2.4% of people at some point³¹.

A treatment plan often includes medications, therapy, and changes in lifestyle. Sticking to this plan is key, even when you’re feeling good, because bipolar disorder comes with recurring mood swings³². It affects around 1 to 2 million people in the U.S. and over 121 million worldwide³².

With the right support, those with bipolar disorder can learn to handle its challenges. The importance of treatment for this condition is huge³³. About 7 million Americans live with it, and it’s linked to a higher risk of heart disease, causing 35%-40% of deaths³³.

By focusing on both mental and physical health, people with bipolar disorder can lead better lives. Managing bipolar disorder well can greatly improve your health and happiness.

FAQ

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that changes a person’s mood, energy, and focus. These changes make everyday tasks hard.

What are the main types of bipolar disorder?

There are three main types: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Symptoms include intense emotions, sleep and activity changes, and acting differently than usual.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing bipolar disorder starts with a physical exam and tests. A mental health evaluation is also done.

Can bipolar disorder occur with other mental disorders?

Yes, many people with bipolar disorder also have other mental health issues. These can include anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, or eating disorders.

What causes bipolar disorder?

The exact cause is not known. But, it might involve brain differences, genetics, and stress.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Treatment combines medication and therapy. This includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants.

What are the types of mood stabilizing medications used to treat bipolar disorder?

Common treatments are lithium, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine.

What other medications are used to treat bipolar disorder?

Doctors may add second-generation neuroleptics and antidepressants to mood stabilizers for depressive episodes.

What are the side effects of bipolar medications?

Side effects include weight gain, metabolic issues, feeling sleepy, and restless.

What other medical treatments are available for bipolar disorder?

Other treatments include ECT, TMS, low-dose ketamine infusions, and thyroid medications.

What types of psychotherapy are used to treat bipolar disorder?

Psychotherapy helps with bipolar disorder. Types include CBT, IPSRT, and family-focused therapy.

Source Links

1. Bipolar Disorder – https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder
2. Bipolar disorder – Symptoms and causes – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955
3. Bipolar Disorder – https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder
4. Bipolar Disorder – https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9294-bipolar-disorder
5. Symptoms – Bipolar disorder – https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms/
6. An Overview of Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/depression/bipolar-disorder-manic-depression
7. Warning Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-warning-signs
8. Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder – https://nyulangone.org/conditions/bipolar-disorder/diagnosis
9. How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed? – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-diagnosis
10. Bipolar Disorder – https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/bipolar-disorder/
11. Bipolar Disorder: 4 Related Mental Health Conditions – https://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-raises-your-risk-for-these-mental-health-conditions-too/
12. A Look at Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/mental-health-bipolar-disorder
13. Bipolar Disorder Risk Factors | Healthline – https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-risk-factors
14. Bipolar Disorder: Who’s at Risk? – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-whos-at-risk
15. Epidemiology and risk factors for bipolar disorder – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6116765/
16. Bipolar disorder – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355961
17. Treatment of acute bipolar depression – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6047324/
18. Medication for Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/medications-bipolar-disorder
19. Treatment – Bipolar disorder – https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/bipolar-disorder/treatment/
20. Mood Stabilizers – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556141/
21. Antipsychotic Medication for Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/antipsychotic-medication
22. Treating Bipolar Depression – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/treating-bipolar-medication
23. SSRI Antidepressants for Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-ssris
24. Antidepressants in bipolar depression: an enduring controversy – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6269438/
25. Antidepressants and Bipolar Disorder – https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/antidepressants
26. Medicines used in bipolar disorders – Pharmacological Treatment of Mental Disorders in Primary Health Care – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK143204/
27. Alternative Treatments for Bipolar Disorder – https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/therapies-bipolar-disorder
28. Bipolar Disorder: 10 Alternative Treatments – https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/alternative-treatments
29. Psychotherapy in Bipolar Depression: Effective Yet Underused – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10198128/
30. What to Know About Therapy for Bipolar Disorder – https://www.verywellmind.com/therapy-for-bipolar-disorder-techniques-and-efficacy-6742122
31. Bipolar Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558998/
32. Bipolar Disorder – an overview – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/bipolar-disorder
33. Bipolar Disorder – an overview – https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/bipolar-disorder