BIPOLAR DISORDER

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder is a long-term mental health condition marked by severe mood variations, oscillating between manic episodes and depressive states. These mood changes can profoundly affect everyday activities, interpersonal relationships, and the overall quality of life.

Psychowellness Center, a premier mental health care provider in West Delhi, offers a holistic and evidence-based approach to the treatment of Bipolar Disorder. Their experienced team works closely with individuals to understand the underlying triggers and develop personalized coping strategies for long-term stability.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a core therapeutic approach, focuses on restructuring negative thought patterns and enhancing emotional regulation. At Psychowellness Center, the goal extends beyond symptom management, emphasizing emotional resilience, personal growth, and improved quality of life. With professional guidance and empathetic assistance, enduring recovery is attainable.

BIPOLAR DISORDER

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are several

 

  • Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by the occurrence of at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or succeeded by episodes of hypomania or depression.

 

  • Bipolar II Disorder: Defined by the occurrence of at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, while excluding any instances of manic episodes.

 

  • Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms for at least two years without meeting full criteria for hypomanic or major depressive episodes.

 

  • Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar Disorders: Symptoms are present but do not align with the aforementioned categories.

 

Signs & Symptoms

Bipolar Disorder generally encompasses three primary categories of episodes: manic, hypomanic, and depressive. The frequency and length of these episodes differ from person to person.

Manic Episode

  • Elevated or irritable mood
  • Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Increased talkativeness or pressured speech
  • Racing thoughts
  • Distractibility
  • Risky or impulsive behavior (e.g., overspending, unsafe sex, substance use)

Hypomanic Episode

  • Similar to mania but less severe
  • Symptoms do not significantly hinder daily activities.
  • No psychotic features

Depressive Episode

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in most activities
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not well understood; nonetheless, several factors could contribute to its onset.

Biological Factors

  • Imbalance in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine
  • Hormonal imbalances

Genetic Factors

  • A familial background of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders heightens the risk.

Psychosocial and Environmental Factors

  • Childhood trauma or abuse
  • Major life stressors (e.g., loss, financial stress)
  • Substance misuse
  • Sleep disruption

Assessment and Diagnosis

Clinical Interview and History Taking

  • Mental health professionals assess symptom patterns, duration, intensity, and impact on daily life
  • A family history of mood disorders is considered

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5-TR)

  • Diagnosis is determined according to the criteria specified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
  • Requires the presence of manic/hypomanic and/or depressive episodes

Psychological Assessments and Tools

  • Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ)
  • Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS)
  • Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)
  • Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS)

Medical Tests

  • Rule out physical causes like thyroid issues or neurological conditions
  • Blood tests or brain imaging, if necessary

Treatment for Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is treatable, though not curable. A combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes helps manage the symptoms effectively.

 

  1. Medication

 

Prescribed by a psychiatrist, medications are typically long-term and may include:

 

  • Mood stabilizers (e.g., Lithium)

 

  • Anticonvulsants (e.g., Valproate, Lamotrigine)

 

  • Antipsychotics (e.g., Quetiapine, Olanzapine)

 

  • Antidepressants (cautiously, often in combination with mood stabilizers)

 

  1. Psychotherapy

 

Therapy helps individuals manage triggers, mood shifts, and interpersonal difficulties.

 

How Therapy Works

A number ofGoals of Therapy:

  • Psychoeducation
  • Early identification of mood episodes
  • Medication adherence
  • Relapse prevention
  • Coping with stressors and improving functioning

Evidence-Based Therapies:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Helps in managing depressive symptoms and recognizing negative thinking patterns
  • Aids in building routines and addressing distorted thoughts
  1. Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT)
  • Focuses on stabilizing daily rhythms and relationships
  • Helps prevent disruptions that may trigger mood episodes
  1. Family-Focused Therapy (FFT)
  • Involves family members in treatment
  • Improves communication and support systems
  1. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills
  • Beneficial for individuals with impulsivity or co-occurring disorders
  1. Psychoeducation

Teaches patients and families about the disorder, symptoms, and importance of treatment adherence.

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