Bipolar mood disorder

Bipolar mood disorder, also known as Bipolar disorder or Manic depression, is a mental disorder characterized by periods of depression and periods of elevated mood. The elevated mood is significant and is known as mania or hypomania, depending on its severity, or whether symptoms of psychosis are present. During mania, an individual behaves or feels abnormally energetic, happy, or irritable. Individuals often make poorly thought out decisions with little regard to the consequences.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bipolar mood disorder can vary widely in their pattern, severity, and frequency. Some people are more prone to either mania or depression, while others alternate equally between the two types of episodes. Some have frequent mood disruptions, while others experience only a few over a lifetime.

Manic episodes

A manic episode is characterized by a period of at least one week where an elevated, expansive, or unusually irritable mood is present. A person in a manic episode is often highly energetic, with greatly increased activity levels. During periods of mania, people may open up numerous lines of credit, or feel the need to perform grandiose plans or ideas.

Depressive episodes

Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder are similar to "regular" clinical depression, with depressed mood, loss of pleasure, low energy and activity, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide. Depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder can be very disabling and may prevent the individual from functioning properly.

Causes

The exact cause of bipolar mood disorder is not entirely understood. It is believed to result from complex interactions between genes and the environment. Genetics play a significant role in the onset of the disorder, with heritable factors accounting for about 80% of the risk of developing the disorder.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Mood stabilizers such as lithium are commonly used. In cases where mood stabilizers are ineffective, antipsychotic medication may be used. Psychotherapy can be useful for dealing with some of the practical implications of living with the disorder, such as problems with personal relationships or employment.

See also

• Mental health
• Major depressive disorder
• Schizophrenia