The Symptoms and Treatments of Bipolar Disorder

According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder that is characterised by periods of mania and depression. These episodes commonly occur at least every two to three years and each phase can last three to six months. Some people tend more towards manic episodes and other towards depressive.

Recognizing Hypomania in Bipolar Disorder

Mania describes episodes of abnormally elevated mood or irritability. Mania lasts at least one week and hypomania, four days. Common symptoms include the following:

• Inflated ego
• Decreased need for sleep
• More talkative than usual
• Racing thoughts
• Distracted easily
• Increase in goal-oriented activities

Symptoms of Depression in Bipolar Disorder

Five or more of the following symptoms should present during the space of two weeks and the behaviour patterns should be out of the ordinary. The new patterns should display depressed mood or loss of interest in once pleasurable activities. Symptoms to look for are:

• Depressed mood
• Diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Noticeable weight loss or gain
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Inappropriate guilt
• Indecisiveness
• Thoughts of death and suicide

Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder

This can be a complex process and normally involves a comprehensive assessment by a psychiatrist. It also includes interviews with family members who are familiar with the patient. The doctor will check for the following factors:

• Influence of drugs - legal or illegal
• High risk behaviour such as excessive spending or sexual indiscretion
• Delusions which are symptoms of psychosis

Diagnosis also includes a routine physical check up with various tests such as urea and electrolytes, liver function and a complete blood count.

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Outpatient treatment is the preferred method but on occasion, hospitalization is necessary to protect the person and their family. Once the patient has been assessed the treatment may follow the following patterns:

Treatment of manic episodes

• There are two components to drug management: a mood stabilizer that takes about a week to work and antipsychotic medication. Lithium is a popular mood stabilizer
• Electroconvulsive therapy may be used if medication is not effective

Treatment of depressive episodes

• Lithium is commonly used as a mood stabilizer
• The simultaneous use of antidepressants is recommended

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder is long-term and is often referred to as the maintenance phase or relapse prevention. The ultimate goal is to keep the person's mood stable and prevent the relapse into mania or depression.

Learning to live with bipolar disorder is an ongoing process for patients and their families. With monitoring and adjustments to medication when needed, most people can live a balanced enjoyable life.

Recommended reading: Bipolar Disorder - The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, ranzcp