The defining trait of bipolar disorder is the experience of mood swings between periods of extreme happiness and intense sadness. While occasional mood swings are not out of the ordinary for many, individuals that have bipolar disorder can experience shifts in mood that interfere with daily functioning.
These shifts in moods may last for a few months or a few years. However, in between episodes, an individual may feel balanced. Bipolar disorder is also not a rare condition. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that 2.8 percent of adults in the United States have bipolar disorder. However, there are many false beliefs about this disorder. Bipolar disorder is complex and requires professional diagnosis.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder falls into one of several classifications depending on the severity and duration of symptoms.
- Bipolar Type I: Bipolar type I involves the severe manifestation of manic and depressive symptoms. Diagnosis is often determined when a manic or depressive episode lasts at least seven days or requires hospitalization. In this type, there may be a combination of symptoms present, with signs of mania overlapping during depressive episodes and vice versa. Manic episodes with psychotic features are also unique to type I.
- Bipolar Type II: Bipolar type II typically involves episodes that are shorter in duration, with less severe symptoms, although a person’s level of impairment may be the same as with type I. Periods of elevated mood last at least four days and are labeled as hypomanic episodes. Bipolar II is commonly misdiagnosed as major depression, and depressive cycles may occur more frequently in people with type II versus type I.
- Cyclothymia: Individuals with cyclothymia have episodes of hypomania and depression. These episodes involve shorter and less severe symptoms than the mania and depression caused by bipolar types I and II. Most people with cyclothymia only experience symptoms for one or two months at a time.
Some individuals experience mood symptoms that resemble but don’t quite align with these three types. Therefore, seeking professional care will determine an appropriate diagnosis.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
To receive a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, an individual must experience at least one period of mania or hypomania. Each involves feelings of excitement, impulsivity and high energy. However, hypomania is considered less severe than mania. Still, mania symptoms can interfere with day-to-day life, leading to problems at work or home.
Some individuals with bipolar disorder also experience major depressive episodes or “down” moods. These three symptoms – mania, hypomania and depression – are the main feature of this disorder. However, different types of bipolar disorder involve different combinations of these symptoms.
Bipolar Type I Symptoms:
- At least one episode of mania that lasts at least one week
- Mania that includes delusions of grandeur, hallucinations, or breaks from reality
- Symptoms that severely affect daily functioning or require hospitalization
- Symptoms that do not relate to another medical or mental health condition
Bipolar Type II Symptoms:
- At least one occurrence of hypomania that lasts four days or longer
- Hypomania-related changes in mood and daily functioning that is noticeable by others
- At least one occurrence of major depression that lasts at least two weeks that involves five or more key depression symptoms that impact daily life
- Symptoms that do not relate to another medical or mental health condition
Cyclothymia Symptoms:
- Experiencing periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depression off and on over two years or longer
- Symptoms that do not meet the criteria for an episode of hypomania or depression
- Symptoms that are present for at least half of two years and are never absent for longer than two months
- Symptoms that do not relate to other medical or mental health conditions
- Symptoms that cause distress and affect daily living
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder has not been determined, but it has been identified by several risk factors that contribute to developing the condition.
- Genetic Predisposition: The common understanding is that no specific gene causes bipolar disorder. However, there is a connection between family history of the condition and new diagnosis of the illness. Individuals with a close relative with bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
- Stress, Anxiety, or Trauma: Some research suggests that the brains of individuals with bipolar disorder do not cope as effectively with stress. Chronic stress, anxiety, or a significant source of sudden trauma, often coincides with the disorder’s onset and these factors may trigger subsequent episodes.
- Drugs and Alcohol: Approximately half of all people with bipolar disorder exhibit signs of alcoholism and other substance use disorders. Individuals often resort to substances to cope with the effects of manic and depressive episodes.
While there is no known cure for bipolar disorder, effective treatment plans exist to manage and lessen symptoms. At DiscoveryMD, we provide appropriate diagnoses through our extensive screening process. Our approach to treatment works to provide ongoing care so you can continue living a life without interruption. Our facilities have a reputable and strong influence within the community; therefore, we can help you find local support and information about bipolar disorder and other disorders. If you are currently having difficulty treating your bipolar disorder, you can get help. You also do not have to go it alone. If you or a loved one needs help, don’t wait. Get help today. Reach out to DiscoveryMD about diagnosis, treatment options, and local support groups. Start your journey to recovery today by contacting us.