We
all have mood swings but not all mood swings have the same intensity. People
who have extreme mood swings ranging from depression to manic highs are
said to be suffering from bipolar disorder.
These extreme moods are known as episodes and usually, last for a few days or
even a few weeks. A person suffering from bipolar disorder could have an
episode several times a year. This is a very common psychological problem and
can affect both children and adults. Though it cannot be cured, this disease
can be managed with medication.
There
are no known causes for bipolar disorder but genetics may play an important
role in triggering Bipolar Disorder. Hence, if a parent or sibling suffers from
this condition, you have a risk of developing it as well. An imbalance in the
neurotransmitters in the brain may also play a part in the development of this
condition. Stress or traumatic events
like the loss of a loved one can also increase your risk of suffering from this
condition. Given that mood
swings affect almost each one of us, bipolar disorder can be difficult to
diagnose.
Some of the things to look out for are:
1.
Change in self-esteem
2.
Unusual talkativeness or quietness
3.
Being increasingly prone to distractions
4.
Decreased need for sleep
5.
Agitation
6.
Recklessness in terms of spending
decisions, relationships etc
It
must be kept in mind that a person must display at least 4 of the above
symptoms simultaneously to be diagnosed as bipolar. Also, none of these
symptoms should be a result or side effect of any kind of medication, drugs,
alcohol or other intoxicants.
There are four main types of bipolar
disorder:
1.
Bipolar I: In
such cases, the person has at least one episode of elevated moods and
associated abnormal behaviour in his or her life. This may be preceded or
followed by depressive episodes.
2.
Bipolar II: In
these cases, the person must have suffered from at least one depressive
episode. It is very similar to bipolar I except that in bipolar II the highs
never reach the manic stage.
3.
Rapid Cycling: Some
people can have 4 or more manic and depressive episodes a year. In such cases,
they are said to be rapid cycling. This condition affects 10-20% of bipolar
cases.
4.
Mixed Bipolar: Usually,
bipolar patients show mood swings that alternate between manic and depressive
moods. However, sometimes a person may experience both elation and depression
simultaneously or in rapid succession of each other. These cases are known as
mixed bipolar.
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