Bipolar disorder, sometimes also known as manic depression, is a mental 
health disorder in which someone’s mood alternates between periods of depressive lows and manic (or hypomanic) highs. Each phase may last a few weeks up to several months.
Cause. Bipolar disorder is caused by an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, namely norepinephrine, serotonin, and/or dopamine. The manic phase is caused by overactivity of these neurotransmitters, while the depressive phase is caused by a deficiency of them.
Symptoms. Manic episodes are marked by high levels of energy and productivity, combined with decreased need for sleep. Depressive episodes bring the opposite effects–low energy, low motivation, and loss of interest in day-to-day tasks.
Diagnosis. Bipolar disorder is diagnosed through psychological testing.
Management. Psychological treatment options for people with bipolar disorder include psychotherapy and support groups. See last week’s post on depression for a full list of activities you can do to try to help improve your mood when its low. (http://www.healthandblackness.com/depression/).
Management of manic phases is a little more difficult as many people find that they enjoy feeling manic. They feel full of life…as if they can conquer the world. Yet, due to this sense of euphoria, people often find that they may battle with hypersexuality, taking unnecessary risks (i.e gambling), or other dangerous behaviors during this phase. So it is important to continually be aware of your mood, and avoid potentially self-destructive activities even if they provide pleasure at the time.
Medications. In addition to therapy, medications that may be helpful include mood stabilizers and antipsychotics. These medications work to balance the neurotransmitters in the brain. Your doctor will decide which is best depending on your symptoms, frequency of mood swings, other diseases you may have, etc. If prescribed any medication within these two groups, it is important to take them everyday, even on days that you are feeling well. Also, be sure to discuss any unwanted side effects with your doctor, versus discontinuing the medication(s) abruptly.
As with all mental health disorders, it is important to remember that there is no shame in having bipolar disorder. A diagnosis does not mean that you are “broken” or that something is “wrong” with you. If experiencing any of the symptoms above, I encourage you to seek help so that you can mange your symptoms and be your best self.
If ever experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255).
