Bipolar disorder has gone by several names in the past. For a period of time, it was called manic depressive disorder and in the nineteenth century, it went by affective psychosis disorder. It is a condition that has affected people throughout history and has two principal states: manic and depression. The current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fifth edition (DSM5) separates bipolar disorder into two types: bipolar I and bipolar II.
The greatest difference between both types of bipolar disorder is the intensity and length of the manic episode. A manic episode within Bipolar I is described as a period of time (at least a week) where the individual is in a heightened elevated mood. In this state they will exhibit a sense of grandiosity (God-like capacities), little to no sleep, very talkative, racing thoughts, distractibility, a hyper-focus on a certain goal, and risky behavior (unrestrained buying, sexual indiscretions, foolish business investments). In some cases, the individual could experience delusional thoughts where they seem to be detached from reality. It is a scary and worrisome scene for the individuals’ loved ones. Unfortunately, while the individual is in their manic episode they lack clarity and can not observe their erratic behavior.
In Bipolar II disorder, instead of a full-fledged manic episode, there will be a hypomanic episode. A hypomanic episode is shorter, it lasts at least 4 days and is not as intense. Individuals will also experience a heightened elevated mood and will share some but not all of the symptoms a manic episode will have. Generally, they present at least three of the previously stated symptoms.
In both Bipolar I and II the person will experience a major depressive episode. Very much like Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) it has to last for at least two weeks. Within that time one experiences either a depressed mood or a loss of interest/pleasure. There can also be a significant change in wither, sleep, motor agitation/retardation, loss of energy, excessive and inappropriate feelings of guilt, a sense of worthlessness, diminished ability to concentrate, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation.
Bipolar disorders have been shown to have a genetic predisposition. There is an average of 10 fold increase of risk among adults relatives of individuals with bipolar I and bipolar II. The average onset of this disorder is around age 18. There are some gender differences, women are more likely to experience rapid cycling (moving quickly between both states), have both bipolar disorder and an eating disorder. They are also more likely to experience significant depressive symptoms than males.
With a large body of research and years of experience, the treatment of bipolar disorder is optimistic. It is a lifetime condition but with a combination of both medication and psychotherapy the person can control symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
Unfortunately, bipolar patients have a major stigma to overcome as well as their own symptoms. Social relationships, professional growth, and love connections are hard to achieve, this is why H.o.p.e offers therapy for those affected and their close ones, helping Out them Earnestly to live a life of love, curiosity, authenticity, and wholeness supported by our team.
