Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a biologically caused mental illness in which a person's mood swings from the depths of depression to the intense highs of mania. Bipolar disorder will affect nearly one in 100 people at some point in their lives. Generally, periods of normal mood also occur, but if bipolar disorder is left untreated, the moods will continue to swing from one extreme to the other.
Bipolar disorder can run in families, so it is highly likely that there is a genetic cause. Research has pointed to events occurring within the body, such as an irregular production or release of hormones and imbalances in the ways brain cells communicate.
Symptoms: Manic Phase
• Feeling on top of the world. The person experiences a sensation of sheer and utter happiness that nothing can change.
• Grandiose delusions. The person imagines that he or she has special connections with God, celebrities, or political leaders.
• Invincibility. The person feels that nothing can prevent him or her from accomplishing any task.
• Hyperactivity. The person schedules more events in a day than can be accomplished; the person is unable to relax or sit still.
• Excessively risky behavior. The person engages in reckless driving, outlandish spending sprees, foolish business investments, or out-of-character sexual behavior.
• Uncontrollable racing thoughts and rapid speech. The person expresses ideas that abruptly change from topic to topic in loud, rapid speech that becomes increasingly incoherent.
• Less need for sleep.
• Sudden irritability or rage, particularly when grandiose plans are thwarted.
Symptoms: Depressed Phase
• Intense sadness or despair. The person feels helpless, hopeless, and worthless.
• No interest in activities once enjoyed.
• Loss of energy, fatigue.
• Sleep difficulties. Sleeping too much or not at all.
• Changes in appetite. The person has a noticeable increase in appetite or a substantial weight loss unrelated to dieting.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Constant thoughts of death or suicide.
Treatment
Although the illness can become quite disabling, bipolar disorder is very treatable. Unfortunately, people with bipolar disorder often do not adhere to treatment, particularly when they are in a manic phase and "feeling good." However, treatment is essential at all stages of the illness and must be strictly followed if a successful outcome is to be reached.
Lithium is commonly given to stabilize the manic phase and prevent mood swings. Other medications are available if lithium is ineffective. All medications can have side effects, but with proper monitoring, medication can return people to productive lives.
People undergoing treatment for bipolar disorder can also benefit from psychotherapy. With the help of a mental health professional, a person can gain insight into behavior provoked by the illness and reestablish relationships damaged by the illness. Because bipolar disorder can create an intensely stressful family situation, family members may also benefit from professional resources, particularly support groups.
Adapted from "Let's Talk Facts About Bipolar Disorder," produced by the American Psychiatric Association. Be sure to visit APA's Web site at www.psych.org.
