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Bipolar Disorder is an intricate and, in most cases, partially misunderstood mental health disorder. Extensive mood swings characterize the disorder. Manic or hypomanic episodes which feature elevated energy come with depressive episodes mainly defined by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. Bipolar mood swings can become pretty hostile toward personal, social, and professional life and, thus, create immense problems.
Bipolar Disorder affects millions of adults worldwide but, with the right early intervention, treatment, and long-term management, people who have it can live productive lives. Understanding what adult Bipolar Disorder symptoms are, what the signs of Bipolar Disorder are in adults, and what the bipolar treatment options are, is essential in helping treat the disorder appropriately.
This article is a comprehensive review of Bipolar Disorder in adults, offering insights into its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and strategies for managing life with Bipolar Disorder.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Manic-Depressive Disorder, also now known as Bipolar Disorder, is a mood disorder that leads to extreme swings in mood, energy, and activity. Some individuals with the disorder will experience periods where they are extremely euphoric and energetic (mania or hypomania), while others become clinically depressed for extended periods.
Of course, everyone’s mood changes from time to time. But in Bipolar Disorder, those changes are way more extreme and interfere with daily functioning. Symptoms can vary from individual to individual in terms of the severity of the mood shift and how long the episode lasts. At times, this long-term stress impact without proper treatment can be simply overwhelming.
Bipolar Disorder in adults can be understood by recognizing the emotional, physical, and cognitive toll that it takes on a person’s well-being, and how each phase manic or depressive affects different aspects of their life.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are several forms of Bipolar Disorder, each with degrees of severity and symptoms. This distinction is what can often help diagnose one and tailor a treatment approach.
Bipolar I Disorder
Features: Characterized by manic episodes that must last at least one week. Usually, this is followed by major depressive episodes that last two weeks or longer.
Seriousness: Bipolar I mania is serious and can be accompanied by psychotic features such as hallucinations or delusions. This may be associated with emergency medical care.
Bipolar II Disorder
Symptoms: Includes hypomanic episodes, which are less severe than manic, combined with major depressive episodes.
Seriousness: Hypomania may indeed impact mood and energy; however, impairment in functioning is not typically severe. Depressive episodes, on the other hand, are often of longer duration and more debilitating.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)
Features: An individual has periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that do not meet the diagnostic requirements for a manic or mixed episode and a depressive episode.
Severity: Though less severe than episodes occurring within a Bipolar Disorder, this condition can interfere with a person’s daily life because of frequent mood changes over two or more years.
Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders
The three main types of this disorder, despite their exact diagnostic criteria, may not be exactly met with the symptoms experienced in certain individuals. The challenges for each type of Bipolar Disorder in adults differ from one another, and knowing the specific one can help provide guidelines for the best treatment.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Adults
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in adults are usually diverse and oscillate between two extreme moods: mania and depression. Each has its own distinct emotional, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms. Accurate identification of these symptoms aids in the prevention of early intervention and effective treatment.
| Manic and Hypomanic Symptoms | Depressive Symptoms |
| Elevated Mood or Irritability. Feeling excessively happy, euphoric, or irritable and having no apparent cause for such a state.Increased Energy. Increased energy or restlessness. This might result in excessive involvement in activities, work, or social engagements.Decreased Need for Sleep. Patients with mania or hypomania may have the feeling of being rested after sleeping only several hours or not sleeping for days.Racing Thoughts and Speech. Thoughts appear jumbled or racing, with speech turning fast-paced or not quite rational.Impulsivity. This is associated with reckless spending, unsafe driving habits, or impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.Grandiosity. A runaway sense of self-importance that the individual may believe he has exceptional abilities or powers. | Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness. Feelings of sadness or despair with no apparent cause.Fatigue. That lasts for days, even after a full night’s sleep.Loss of Interest. Apathy in activities that once were enjoyable, such as social interactions or hobbies.Problem with Concentration. Inability to focus, make decisions, or fulfill responsibilities.Sleep and Appetite. Increased sleeping or decreased sleeping with a change in appetite: either overeating or lack of interest in eating.Suicidal thoughts. Severe cases sometimes even result in suicidal thoughts where professional help is required to avoid any negative outcome. |
Adult Bipolar Disorder symptoms are very often difficult to diagnose because they can overlap with other conditions, such as anxiety or even depression. This is why seeing a professional is necessary for the right diagnosis.
Causes and Risk Factors for Adult Bipolar Disorder
Although it is not yet established what causes Bipolar Disorder, a couple of factors have been advanced as risk factors for the onset of the disease. Knowing these factors will help prevent and manage the disorder.
Biological Factors
- Brain Structure and Function. Brains with Bipolar Disorder are different in structure and function, especially the hippocampus, which is the structure taking part in memorizing and emotional regulation processes, and the amygdala, which is the center of emotional processing.
- Neurotransmitter Imbalance. The disruption in neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine may lead to mood regulation, causing Bipolar Disorder in adults.
Environmental Triggers
- Stress. Major life stressors, trauma, or even periods of high emotional tension may be the causes for the onset or exacerbation of Bipolar Disorder.
- Substance Abuse. Misuse of drugs or alcohol can contribute to the exacerbation of symptoms or provoke episodes of mania or depression.
- Sleep Disruption. Lack of sleep or disturbed sleep patterns may precipitate mood episodes in a bipolar patient.
Understanding these causes is essential in managing the condition and reducing risk factors that may result in relapse or exacerbate the condition.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder in Adults
Bipolar Disorder in adults through a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare provider, which is most often a psychiatrist. It consists of interviews and reviews of the medical history combined with diagnostic tests.
Clinical Assessment
- A psychiatrist will enquire about the symptomatology, personal history, family history, and other psychiatric illnesses.
Diagnostic Criteria
- The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) outlines clear criteria to determine the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, with the presence of both manic and depressive episodes.
Exclusion of Other Disorders
- Since the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder can be similar to those of other conditions, like major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse, clinicians need to rule out other possibilities before making a diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
Treating Bipolar Disorder effectively involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.
Medication
- Mood Stabilizers. The most common mood stabilizers prescribed include lithium. It serves to reduce the intensity of mood shifts and prevents future episodes.
- Antipsychotics. Limits the onset of manic episodes and is used in combination with mood stabilizers.
- Antidepressants. These are sometimes prescribed to reduce depressive symptoms but must be used carefully as they could potentially induce a manic episode if not administered together with a mood stabilizer.
- Anticonvulsants. Certain anticonvulsant drugs, including valproate, are also used as mood stabilizers for Bipolar Disorder.
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This enables patients to identify negative thought patterns that lead to mood swings and challenges them to get rid of these patterns.
- Family Therapy. Educates the members of the family about the disorder and how they can support the treatment plan of the individual.
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. Aimed at enhancement of social functioning combined with routines toward reducing the possibilities of mood episodes.
Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise. It helps in reducing symptoms of depression and also stabilizes mood.
- Healthy Sleep Habits. Healthy sleep habits can prevent the trigger mechanism of mood episodes due to sleep disruptions.
- Stress Management. Sensitization of mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and yoga can prevent the triggering of mood swings.
Together, these practices can greatly enhance the quality of life in managing Bipolar Disorder in adults.
Managing Life With Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder is a challenging condition to live with; however, managing the condition effectively is achievable with the right strategies.
Developing a Support System
Having good friends, family, and mental health professionals in place can make a big difference. Creating awareness among friends and family about the disorder can provide rich understanding and support during adversities.
Monitoring Symptoms
Keeping track of mood changes and triggers can help identify early signs of an episode. This self-awareness can lead to earlier intervention and more effective treatment outcomes.
Seeking Professional Help
Communication with a healthcare provider ensures that any changes in symptoms are appropriately followed up with. Therapy as well as medication adjustments can be determined based on a person’s individual needs.
Taking Steps Towards Bipolar Treatment and Management
Bipolar Disorder treatment is a lifelong condition, but with support and lifestyle modifications, people can cope with the episodes and go on to lead full lives. Early intervention, understanding the symptoms and triggers, and professional help are crucial to improving this kind of disorder. With Bipolar Disorder treatment, many will find the tools to manage mood swings and maintain emotional equilibrium. If you or a close relative are experiencing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, professional help can be very effective in altering the quality of your life.
For further information about adult Bipolar Disorder symptoms and Bipolar Disorder treatment options, consult a mental health practitioner or a specialized treatment center.
FAQs
- What are the early signs of Bipolar Disorder in adults?
Early signs of Bipolar Disorder in adults are extreme mood swings—mania or hypomania, which are high energy and irritability, with depression, sadness, and low energy. The others may be some forms of difficulty in sleep, impulsive behavior, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. If you have such symptoms, get professional help.
- How can I help someone with Bipolar Disorder?
Support your loved one by encouraging them to take their treatment, being patient, and learning about the disorder. Provide calm during episodes of mania and reassurance when experiencing depression. Tracking mood changes can also help identify early warning signs.
- Can Bipolar Disorder be treated without medication?
While mood stabilizers are often a must, other Bipolar Disorder treatment options may include psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions. Therapy helps interrupt negative thought processes, but treatment may also include managing stress, sleep, and routines. Often, however, medication is the necessary ingredient for longer-term stabilization.
- How is Bipolar Disorder diagnosed in adults?
Through evaluation, including discussion of symptoms, review of the medical history, and sometimes conducting tests to exclude other conditions, Bipolar Disorder in adults can be diagnosed by a healthcare provider in adults. Diagnosis typically involves identifying distinct manic and depressive episodes.
- Can people with Bipolar Disorder lead normal lives?
Yes, with proper treatment, many Bipolar Disorders in adults lead fulfilling lives. Prolonged therapy, various treatments, and support systems can even help control symptoms as long as these patients maintain their personal and professional stability.
