Bipolar Disorder: All You Want to Know

Mood swings are common. But if these swings touch the extreme ends, that’s a problem that can possibly affect every aspect of your life, from work to relationships. This is why it’s important to seek proper treatment for your bipolar disorder, which is also called manic depression. 46 million people have bipolar disorder worldwide. At Cadabam’s, we offer treatment for bipolar disorder. We have a multispecialty team of experts who specialize in treating this mental health disorder. We rely on science-backed approach and methodologies to ensure superior outcomes and a personalized experience for the patients. If you or your loved ones are struggling with bipolar disorder, please connect with us today and seek the needed help. Give us a call at +91 97414 76476.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes extreme mood swings from ecstasy to depression. These mood swings affect energy levels, attention, and behavior, causing relationship and work issues, as well as various other issues.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 8.7 million people in India have been diagnosed with Bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

There are two types of mood episodes; depression and mania. While some people might only experience mania, others experience both mania and depression.

A manic episode can include:

• An increase in talkativeness
• An increase in  self-esteem or grandiosity
• A decreased need for sleep
• An increase in goal-directed activity, energy level, or irritability.
• Racing thoughts
• Inability to pay attention
• An increase in risk-taking behavior

A depressive episode can include:

• Depressed mood
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in eating habits
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Not enjoying activities that they used to enjoy
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Indecision or difficulty in concentrating
• Thoughts of suicide

Causes Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can be genetic, so having a family member with the condition increases a person’s risk of having it. Another risk factor is traumatic events in the person’s life. Sleep deprivation, substance, and alcohol use do not cause the disorder but can trigger an episode.

Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

The bipolar disorder must be diagnosed by a doctor, psychiatrist, or another mental health professional after evaluating the symptoms and severity. The medical professional will also have to rule out if the episodes are caused by any other underlying medical condition, alcohol use, or drug use.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

The standard treatment is a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and psycho-education. If the person has any other substance abuse issues, they should be treated as well.

The exact treatment course depends on your needs and the severity of the condition. In mildly-severe cases, psychotherapy is the first choice. However, in severe cases wherein the person is showing suicidal tendencies and is acting dangerously, hospitalization may be required.

Remember, bipolar disorder is chronic. The treatment lasts lifelong. Depending on how your condition is improving or worsening, the course of treatment will be adjusted accordingly.

Why Cadambams?

Bipolar disorder treatment needs holistic treatment. Each person and their circumstances are unique. At Cadabam’s Hospitals, we treat bipolar disorder through a personalized combination of medication, therapies, and other solutions. Medication prescribed for bipolar disorder helps stabilize the mood and manage the symptoms. Therapy helps the person to deal with the condition. We also offer occupational therapy, psychosocial interventions, post-treatment care, and community support.

We understand that a person with a chronic disorder such as bipolar needs long-term support, and that’s what we deliver to people who come to us with this mental health disorder. For more information, please connect with us today. Give us a call at +91 97414 76476 or email us at info@cadabamshospitals.com.

Disclaimer: We strive to treat our patients with dignity and utmost sensitivity. We understand that bipolar disorder is a disease and that it is not a sign of weakness. When addressing people with bipolar disorder, one must be careful of the choice of words so to avoid anything that may sound offensive. In case you or your loved ones are struggling with behavioral addiction and share a unique viewpoint on how we can improve this content for our readers, please reach out to us at info@cadabamshospitals.com.

FAQs about Bipolar Disorder

When is the typical onset of symptoms for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder affects children, teens, and adults. But the average age of symptoms onset is 25. The earlier a person seeks treatment, the easier it is to treat and control.

What’s the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II?

A person who has had a full-blown manic episode as per the criteria may be diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder. Manic symptoms that do not seriously impair the person accompanied with depression generally point to Bipolar II Disorder. Experiencing both manic and depressive symptoms without meeting the criteria for a full manic or depressive episode may be diagnosed as a cyclothymic disorder.

Can bipolar be cured?

Bipolar is a chronic condition that lasts a lifetime. However, it is treatable, and its symptoms can be managed with the right combination of medications and therapy.

What are the risks of bipolar disorder?

When a person has a manic episode, it impairs their normal judgment. They may indulge in risky behavior and are at a higher risk of harming themselves or attempting suicide. They may also try to use alcohol or some other substance as a form of escapism.