Guide to Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar disorder has four different types. Bipolar I is generally considered to be the most severe. Going through the process of being diagnosed with Bipolar I was rough, and I would like to help others understand why. Here is an in-depth guide to understanding bipolar I disorder.

All of the different types of bipolar disorder are defined somehow by the length, frequency, and pattern of mood episodes. In the case of bipolar I, at least one manic episode and at least one depressive episode are required to diagnose an individual. The episodes are typically very severe (1).

Symptoms of a manic episode include having an outgoing mood, being extremely irritable or agitated, pressured speech, racing thoughts, restlessness, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, grandiose beliefs, and impulsive behavior (2).

Symptoms of a depressive episode include loss of interest, lethargy, concentration issues, restlessness, changing of habits, and dark thoughts (2).

Mixed episodes are a bizarre combination of manic traits and depressive traits during one episode. People with bipolar disorder have stated that this is the most taxing type of episode (1).

Getting the correct diagnosis is extremely important since bipolar I disorder, obviously, cannot be treated if it is not recognized as the issue at hand. First thing's first, see a general practitioner who will likely run some laboratory tests to determine that the symptoms are not being caused by something else running amok in the body. After that point, the physician may perform a mental health assessment or write a referral to see a mental health professional. This individual should perform a full diagnostic evaluation (2).

After the diagnosis of bipolar I, it is important to continue seeing a psychiatrist for prescription and maintenance of medications. Taking the appropriate medications on a regular basis is of the utmost importance. Usually, there is a cocktail of more than one medication (2).

The first medication is a mood stabilizer. Mood stabilizers are often taken during episodes and for years afterwards as a maintenance drug. The medications help to control wavering moods (2).

The next medication for bipolar I disorder can be an atypical antipsychotic. These medications, when used in conjunction with a mood stabilizer, can help eliminate some of the other symptoms of bipolar I disorder (2).

The final type of medication usually thrown into a medication cocktail is an antidepressant, which should not be taken without a mood stabilizer because it can cause a manic episode. Antidepressants are used to treat the symptoms of depression (2).

Going into psychotherapy, or "talk" therapy, is also a fantastic idea. Psychotherapy, once I found the right therapists, has been just as helpful as my medications in treating my bipolar I disorder.

Bipolar I disorder is an interesting, frustrating, and complex disease. Hopefully this guide will bring everyone one step closer to understanding.

Sources:

1. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. 2009. http://www.dbsalliance.org

2. National Institute of Mental Health. 2009. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/complete-index.shtml