Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
Symptoms:
Mood swings, manic episodes (euphoria, high energy), depressive episodes (low mood, fatigue), irritability
Diagnosis:
Psychiatric evaluation, mood charting, physical exam to rule out other causes, and psychological assessments
Medicine:
Mood stabilizers (lithium), antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants
Treatment:
Medication to manage mood swings, psychotherapy (CBT, family therapy), lifestyle changes (regular sleep, routine), and sometimes hospitalization for severe episodes.
Prevention:
Regular sleep patterns, stress management, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and adherence to prescribed treatment plans to prevent mood episodes.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder? How is bipolar disorder treated? Can bipolar disorder be managed? What is the difference between mania and hypomania?