What is Bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formally called manic depression, is a mental disorder characterized by changes in mood between high (hypomania or mania) and low (depressive) emotions. Hypomania is less severe than mania. A manic episode is characterized by a period of unusually and persistently high, expansive, or irritable mood along with a significant and continuous increase in activity or energy, lasting for at least one week and being present most of the day, almost daily. A manic episode could trigger psychosis. A hypomanic episode is characterized by a period of unusually and persistently high, expansive, or irritable mood along with a significant and continuous increase in activity or energy, lasting for at least 4 consecutive days and being present most of the day, almost daily.

A depressive episode is marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or enjoyment in activities [1]. These mood swings can impact sleep, energy levels, activity, judgment, behavior, and clear thinking[1]. Episodes of mood shifts from depression to mania/ hypomania can happen infrequently or several times a year[1]. Between episodes, some individuals experience extended periods of emotional stability, while others may frequently go through mood swings from depression to mania or even experience both depression and mania simultaneously[1].

There are 3 types of bipolar disorder:

• Bipolar 1 disorder: Characterised by manic and depressive episodes.

• Bipolar 2 disorder: Characterised by hypomanic and depressive episodes.

• Cyclothymic disorder: Characterised by recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not severe enough or do not last long enough to be classified as hypomanic or depressive episodes [2].

At times, a person may experience bipolar disorder symptoms that don't fit into the three categories mentioned above. This is known as "other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders."[2]

Bipolar symptoms may vary over time. Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage mood swings and other symptoms by adhering to a treatment plan[1]. Typically, healthcare professionals treat bipolar disorder with a combination of medication and talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy[1].

References

1. Bipolar disorder - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2024, August 14). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955

2. Bipolar disorder. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder