Bipolar disorder is a common condition. It is estimated that around six million adults in the U.S. have bipolar disorder. This mental condition alters energy and mood, characterized by major shifts from depression to mania. These episodes can last from a few days to weeks or even longer. Even though bipolar disorder New York Rappore can be hard to manage, many available treatments and management strategies exist. If you or someone close to you is living with bipolar disorder, you are at the right place. Here is a look at everything you need to know about bipolar disorder, including possible causes and treatments.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes fluctuations in energy, mood, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily activities. These moods range from extremely energized, exhilarated, or irritated, referred to as manic episodes, to extremely sad, down, or hopeless, referred to as depressive episodes.
The types of bipolar disorders include; bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia. In Bipolar I, you have at least a single manic episode. Bipolar II is if you experience a major depressive episode lasting for a minimum of two weeks and a hypomanic episode lasting around four days. Individuals with cyclothymia experience symptoms of depression and hypomania but are not significant to cause hypomania or depressive episodes.
What Are the Causes of Bipolar Disorder
The exact cause of the bipolar disorder is not known. However, scientific research suggests several risk factors might increase the chances of developing bipolar disorder. These factors work together in a complex mix of environmental, physical, and social factors.
- Genetics
Bipolar disorder is related to genetics because it seems to run in families. A family member of an individual with bipolar disorder has a higher risk of developing the condition. However, there is no single gene that is responsible for bipolar disorder.
- Triggers
Several environmental and genetic factors often act as triggers. Some common triggers include; stressful situations such as relationship breakdown, the death of a loved one, sexual, emotional, or physical abuse, financial hardships, sleep disturbances, and physical illness.
- Chemical Imbalance in The Brain
Some scientific research suggests that bipolar disorder might be linked to chemical imbalances in the brain. The chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions are called neurotransmitters and the brain. They include; serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine. Other studies suggest that an imbalance in levels of one or more neurotransmitters can cause symptoms of bipolar disorder. For instance, some evidence suggests that manic episodes might occur when noradrenaline levels are too high. On the other hand, depressive episodes might occur when the levels of noradrenaline become too low.
What Are the Available Treatments for Bipolar Disorders?
Individuals with bipolar disorder normally benefit most from a combination of psychotherapy and medication. The normally recommended medications include; antipsychotics such as olanzapine, mood stabilizers like lithium, anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, and antidepressant-antipsychotics like fluoxetine-olanzapine. Some evidence-based psychotherapy includes; interpersonal social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or dialectical-based therapy (DBT).
Ultimately, bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but this does not mean it has to disrupt your life. Although bipolar disorder can certainly come with some challenges, sticking with your treatment plan, leaning on your support system, and practicing regular self-care can promote your overall well-being and keep the symptoms to a minimum. Educating yourself and your loved ones about the condition can have many benefits.
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