Category: Bipolar Disorder

Exploring Bipolar Disorder: Pathology, Characteristics and Care Strategies

Abstract

This paper includes the comparison and contrast of schizophrenia disorder pathology from multiple resources, as well as data obtained from clinical sites at Harris Health Psychiatric Center. The paper will discuss pertinent lab tests and diagnostic studies upon availability and the significance of each; a care plan with three nursing diagnoses, a short-term goal with interventions for each, and a long-term goal with one discharge teaching plan for each are included in this paper. Information retrieved from 2 journal articles on schizoaffective disease formulated in content. This paper exemplifies schizoaffective disorder and the major components of the disorder.

Disease Pathology Compare/Contrast

According to Videbeck (2014), “Schizoaffective disorder is diagnosed when the client is severely ill and has a mixture of psychotic and mood. The symptoms may occur simultaneously or may alternate between psychotic episodes (p. 266). While observing and interviewing a patient at Harris County Psychiatric Center (HCPC) diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, multiple symptoms related to the disorder were demonstrated. The patient was admitted to the hospital for depression and having bizarre behavior thoughts. The patient thought people were talking about him when there was no one around him. The patient states that when he does not take his medicine, he “starts getting out of control.” This patient started yelling out and disturbing his family until his family felt the need to bring him to the hospital. His primary diagnosis at the time of admission was schizoaffective disorder.

Characteristics

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Social isolation
• Bizarre behavior/thoughts
• Poor hygiene
• Suicidal thoughts
• Paranoia
• Difficulty sleeping at night
• Language and thought process

This patient at HCPC states, “do not like acting out only occurs when out of medication.” (HCPC, personal communication, September 2018).

Procedures

Schizoaffective disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations or delusions. As a result, there are no large-scale epidemiological data worldwide. Prevalence or incident of schizoaffective disorder is estimated to be less common than schizophrenia. This disorder affects between 2 and 5 people out of every 1,000 people and is more common in women (Videbeck, 2014).

Course

The course of schizoaffective disorder usually features a cycle of severe symptoms followed by improvement with fewer symptoms. The disorder is usually lifelong. There is hope for individuals with schizoaffective disorder. Symptoms will improve over a present lifetime. The patient at Harris County Psychiatric Center (HCPC) stated that when properly medicated, the symptoms related to the disease are less severe (Videbeck, 2014).

Etiology

Most studies cluster schizoaffective disorder together with schizophrenia or bipolar disease. The symptoms may alternate psychotic and mood disorder symptoms. “Some studies report that long-term outcomes for the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder are like those for bipolar” (Videbeck, 2014, p . 268). This is an organic disease with underlying physical brain pathology. “Some therapist still believes this type of disorder results from dysfunctional parenting or family dynamics. Newer scientific studies began to demonstrate a form of brain dysfunction. These neurochemical/neurologic theories are supported by the effects of antipsychotic medication, which help control psychotic symptoms” (Videbeck, 2014, p. 68).

The patient has no job and no medical insurance, which often makes it difficult to schedule appropriate doctor appointments and maintain a medication regimen (HCPC, personal communication, September 2018).

Treatment

It is very important that the patient carry out and respond to treatment as ordered. It is a combination of medications and counseling. When necessary, some therapy and psychotherapy, psychoeducation, family therapy, group therapy, life skills training, and hospitalization at times. Medication used for treatment includes antipsychotic medication for delusion and hallucination episodes and mood stabilators for antidepressant disorder. Proper education is ongoing. Most importantly, it promotes safety and knows about their disorder and the many side effects that can occur. Maintenance therapy is also beneficial to the well-being of individuals with schizoaffective disorder (Skelton et al., 2015).

Prognosis

Individuals with schizoaffective disorder, as stated by a patient at Harris County Psychiatric Hospital (HCPC), function better when following a medication regimen properly as prescribed by a physician. Medication and therapies work best when used together for better response. Schizoaffective patients have a more positive outcome when prescribed neuroleptic and anticholinergic. They will demonstrate less severe depressive symptoms than mood disorder patients (Evans, 1999).

Pertinent Lab Data and Diagnostic

Lab results and diagnostics studies are relevant to indicate an underlying cause, such as any abnormalities in lab results and diagnostic testing. For example, certain drugs and comorbidities may interact and trigger unexpected onset and negative behaviors. The patient at HCPC did not have any labs or diagnostics available in the chart.

Physician Order and Teaching

1. Sertraline 200 mg PO daily for depression. Before taking sertraline liquid concentrate, tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex.
2. Risperidone 2 mg PO twice daily for schizophrenia / bipolar disorder. Advise the patient to report suicidal thoughts.
3. Metformin 500 mg po daily to treat type 2 diabetes/overweight. It is important to take metformin with food to reduce stomach-related side effects.
4. Benztropine 1 mg op daily for acute dystonic reaction. Teach patients and family that it may cause drowsiness or dizziness, and frequent mouth care may cause dry mouth.
5. Teach the patient and family to notify the health care team of any signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts or ideations.

Care Plan

1. Disturbed personal identity related to bizarre behavior as evidenced by the patient stating, “yelling out I get paranoid thinking someone is talking to me when no one is there” (HCPC, personal communication, September 2018).Short-term goal: The patient will control bizarre behavior.

Subjective: The patient states he feels much better when he takes his medication.

Objective: The patient talks to me himself when sitting alone.

Assessment: The patient wants to continue his medication.

Plan: The patient is planning to apply for financial assistance to help pay for medication.

Long-term goal: The patient will get the financial help he needs to maintain the medication regimen as prescribed.

Teaching: Re-educate patients on how important it is to take medication and schedule routine doctor appointments.

Interventions: Promote safety at all times. Explain the major side effects of medication and notify the healthcare team of any suicidal thoughts (Schultz, 2013).

2. Social Isolation related to delusional thinking as evidenced by sitting in a room alone.

Short-term goal: The patient will verbalize what he is thinking during the open-ended conversation.

Subject: Patient states, “I hear voices at night sometimes when I’m sleeping” (HCPC, personal communication, September 2018).

Objective: The patient sits in his room alone, not interacting with others.

Assessment: The patient states that he will attend group therapy at the next meeting.

Plan: The patient will allow the therapist to interview him briefly and go outside with others

Long-term goal: The patient will interact more with others. Taking it one day at a time.

Discharge Teaching: Teach the patient to verbalize concerns, participate, and ask questions within the group. Notify the healthcare team of any concerns (Schultz, 2013).

Interventions: Encourage the patient to enjoy life. Support the patient, redirect them to develop a positive attitude, and present the patient with resources that will guide them to maintain positive thoughts (Schultz, 2013).

3. Insomnia related to delusional thinking, as evidenced by the client not being able to sleep at night.

Short-term goal: Patient will rest well at night while hospitalized.

Subjective: The patient states, “Sometimes I can’t sleep because I hear voices” (HCPC, personal communication, September 2018).

Assessment: The patient knows with proper rest, he will feel better.

Plan: The patient is willing to take medication as prescribed so he can remain calm and rest better at night.

Long-term goal: The patient will take his medication as prescribed and get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.

Teaching: The nurse will educate the patient that proper rest is important.

Conclusion

The nurse will set standards for why proper rest is important for the mind and body. The nurse will provide in-service and keynotes on proper rest methods and relaxation therapy. The patient will verbalize concerns and be willing to obtain proper sleep to decrease stress levels and maintain a productive life.

References

1. Skelton, M., Khokwar, A., & Thacker, D. (2015). Schizoaffective disorder. StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482450/
2. Evans, J. D. (1999). Course and outcome of schizophrenia. Psychiatry (Edgmont), 20(10), 1-6.
3. Schultz, S. (2013). Psychiatric nursing care plans (5th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Impact, and Treatment Approaches

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental illness. This is an illness that several Americans have and suffer from each year. Bipolar disorder may be triggered by unfortunate events and stressful experiences. Mood swings usually accompany this disorder. Individuals will oftentimes go from frequent shifts of highs and lows. This reoccurrence and severity may differ from patient to patient. Bipolar is usually treated with medication. There are several different types of medication that a clinician may choose to administer to their patient, depending on their symptoms. Clinicians are advised to see patients regularly and make adjustments to medication as needed. Many people recover and can function normally again, but not everyone has that luxury.

Introduction

The reason why I wanted to research bipolar disorder is because I have a close friend who suffers from a minor form of bipolar disorder. I also find this disorder fascinating, and I wanted to research more about it.

A study reports that bipolar disorder 1 is an illness that is in the brain. This disorder usually surfaces when many episodes of mania and depression occur. This will happen in many intervals, so not all at the same time. Individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder struggle with having full brain factuality (Pinto et al., 2020). Bipolar is a widespread issue. This mental issue is all-encompassing and is difficult to manage. Bipolar disorders affect all aspects of life, including physical health, relationships, family life, and so much more. Those who have bipolar disorder may have a hard time keeping even a part-time job.

These individuals may also have a hard time keeping sustainable relationships going. With the constant emotional changes, it can be hard for these individuals to have a normal life. It cannot be understated how difficult this mental illness can be for patients who have this disorder. It is important to know the symptoms of this mental illness. Symptoms of this mental illness will be explored in this paper. It is also very important to know the treatment for this mental illness. What are some things we already know about treating bipolar disorder? Treatment of this mental illness will also be explored in this paper.

Symptoms

A study reported personality traits that are usually found in individuals who have bipolar disorder have symptoms of mania and depression. Mania is part of the brain that is involved with negative agreeableness. Depression, on the other hand, is connected with negative extraversion. These two combined often lead to bipolar disorder. It is a pattern of mania and depression reassuringly affecting the individual in episodes. Mania is the more common of the two. Most, if not all, individuals who have bipolar will show symptoms of mania, but not all will have depression symptoms (Quilty et al., 2009).

Earlier, it was discussed that mania causes negative agreeableness, and depression causes negative extraversion. There are five total variations in personality. The five are neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, openness to experience, and conscientiousness. These five come from The Five Factor Model. Extraversion has a lot to do with how someone will socialize with others and how excited or optimistic they are about something. Agreeableness is about how individuals feel toward others; it involves whether someone trusts others or not.

Is this individual able to get along with others? These are things that individuals with bipolar disorder may have a hard time with (Quilty et al., 2009). As explained before, those individuals with bipolar disorder have a lower amount of extraversion and agreeableness than those who do not suffer from this disorder. Individuals who have bipolar disorder are going to often have a harder time getting along with others and developing strong relationships than those who do not have this disorder. The personality traits that help people have social relationships and trust others are less in effect with this disorder.

Another research article explains mania and depression in a slightly different way. It reports changes in mood and emotion so frequently are known as “mood swings.” Specifically, mania is the high part of that mood swing. That is when the individual is feeling good or excited about life. At the same time, the low part of the mood swings is depression. This is when the individual is feeling down or sad. Energy levels are a lot lower here. This rapid switch between these highs and lows is a symptom of bipolar disorder. This can be disconcerting for friends and family who are close to the individual who suffers from bipolar disorder (Bipolar disorder – Symptoms, 2004).

Another study talks about specific symptoms that are found in adolescents who are later diagnosed as having bipolar disorder. This article reports that we are not spending enough time examining “mood instability.” Keeping track of mood instability is very important because severe fluctuations in mood like this can be dangerous. Some dangerous thoughts could even lead to suicidal behavior (O’Donnell et al., 2018). Studies also have shown that it is particularly important that we treat children who have these mood disorders. The younger the person who is diagnosed with this mental illness, the disorder is more severe. This cannot be treated lightly.

Adolescents are susceptible to having this disorder. They are usually going to show symptoms of mood instability. Symptoms can show up in a five-year period, suicide attempts, aggressive behavior, psychotic symptoms, and higher than usual levels of cyclothymic temperament. These specific symptoms can give clues to the clinician that this adolescent may be suffering from a bipolar disorder (O’Donnell et al., 2018). This research shows that symptoms of bipolar disorder not only show up in adults but also can appear in children and adolescents. It is important to be aware of these symptoms so knowledge can be acquired of what these symptoms mean collectively. The sooner an individual can receive help and safe medication, the hopes of their recovery increase. This is very good news for those patients who have bipolar disorder. There can be better days ahead when they are not controlled by this mental illness.

Findings from an article report that those with bipolar and who have high levels of mania have a decreased ability to detect sad or negative facial expressions. Examples of some of the facial expressions they have a hard time detecting are sadness, disgust, and fear. In comparison to this contrast, those individuals who have high levels of depression have an overwhelming ability to detect these same facial expressions. In fact, they may believe they are seeing sad or disgusted facial expressions when, in reality, they are not. They have a harder time distinguishing between happy and sad facial expressions (Zhang et al., 2018). This research makes sense because oftentimes times, humans will portray how they are feeling on the inside to their outer experiences. Those who are not mentally stable may assume that they feel the same way as everyone else.

Treatment

A form of treatment for bipolar disorder is medication that is taken orally. Individuals usually are prescribed for mediation by their psychologist or clinician. According to an article talking about treatment for bipolar disorder, it states that there is a wide range of choices when it comes to pharmacological or medication options. Unfortunately, though, even with this wide range of variability, there is still only a small amount of individuals who recover within a year of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder (Pinto et al., 2020). There is research done on bipolar disorders and how to treat them, but more research needs to be done to widen the knowledge for treating this disorder. It can be difficult for clinicians to always diagnose the perfect medication for each patient every time.

Another article reports that there is a Mood Disorder Questionnaire that can help psychologists screen where individuals are on the spectrum of bipolar disorder. Research has been done on this questionnaire, and it suggested that this screening can help boost sensitivity where the risk of bipolar disorder is higher (Dumont et al., 2020). Screening tools are usually used when individuals are first diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Psychologists want to learn where on the spectrum these individuals are. This knowledge can help them properly diagnose a medication that will hopefully help individuals with bipolar disorder. Questionnaires are not always foolproof, but they can be helpful to guide clinicians in the right direction.

A study finds that in order for medication to be successful for those who have bipolar, clinicians must see their patients regularly and make any adjustments that are needed. Clinicians need to focus on whether the medication that has been prescribed is working as it should or if it needs to be changed in any way. Clinicians may change medications if there is a negative side effect, a negative response, or no response to the medication that was prescribed to the patient. If changes are not made, the patient experiencing these responses may stop taking their medication because it is not helping. Other times, there is nothing wrong with the drug that is being administered; sometimes, it is the patient who may display new or more serious symptoms that then need a stronger medication to treat. That is why it is so important that clinicians keep a close eye on their patients (Hodgkin et al., 2018). It is not uncommon for doctors in any medical profession to need to change medication for their patients sometimes. It can be difficult to properly prescribe a perfect medication to each patient all of the time.

Challenges in Medication Management

A very informational article that I found talked about several potential drugs that may affect function and could be used for patients with bipolar disorder. Lithium has a low chance of improving functioning mainly because it could have adverse effects. Also, previous studies have been done on Lithium, and they suggest that it can decrease suicidal behavior. Another drug listed is Valproate. It is known to be pretty effective for several patients. It also can help patients who have issues with irritability. Valproate can also help with cognitional function.

This drug may cause weight gain, but other than that, Valproate has fewer negative effects than other drugs that are commonly used for bipolar disorder. Another drug that can be used is called Quetiapine. This drug does prove to increase functioning. It can have benefits for depression and mania. Fortunately, this drug can also help with sleep problems and can help enhance cognitive functioning (Bowden & Singh, 2006). This article shows that there are many kinds of medications that can be prescribed to patients with bipolar disorder. Clinicians must think about the pros and cons of each drug. Clinicians also must decide which medication will fit each patient for their individual needs.

Another research study talks about how they studied two drugs to see how effective they would be on patients with bipolar disorder. They found that amphetamine and methylphenidate are pretty effective drugs for those who have bipolar disorder. These drugs were well received by the group that was given them. There were little to no adverse effects from either drug. Most of the patients stayed on stimulants, and this led to their improvement. The success of the individuals who were involved was significant. Many were able to go back to have productive lives because of their recovery. There were a couple that did not react as well to the drug, and they did not benefit from it (Carlson et al., 2004).

Conclusion

In conclusion, bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is primarily known for two major symptoms. The first symptom is mania. This is when a patient will feel extreme highs, like very excited and an elevated feeling. And then suddenly, the same patient will feel extreme sadness. This is the low part of the spectrum, also known as depression. Patients with bipolar disorder experience this swing of highs and lows more often than people who do not have bipolar disorder. The severity and frequency of these mood fluctuations differ from each patient, but it is this pattern that is most often seen.

Adults have bipolar disorder, but even children and adolescents can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Treatment for this mental disorder may differ depending on the patient and their specific symptoms, but the most common form of treatment for this disorder is medication. The medication that is diagnosed for patients with bipolar disorder has a very wide range. Clinicians can choose which medication they think would work best for their patients. There are questionnaires that can be given to help clinicians make a good choice. Even when this choice is made, though, clinicians may need to go back and revisit their patient’s medication and change it if necessary. Bipolar disorder can be treated, and there are many patients who have had recoveries and now live very normal lives.

References

1. Bowden, C., & Singh, V. (2006). Bipolar disorders: Treatment options and patient satisfaction. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2(2), 149–153. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.2147/nedt.2006.2.2.149
2. Bipolar disorder – Symptoms and help for a loved one. (2004). South African Psychiatry Review, 7(2), 35–36
3. Carlson, P. J., Merlock, M. C., & Suppes, T. (2004). Adjunctive stimulant use in patients with bipolar disorder: treatment of residual depression and sedation. Bipolar Disorders, 6(5), 416–420. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1111/j.1399-5618.2004.00132.x
4. Dumont, C. M., Sheridan, L. M., Besancon, E. K., Blattner, M., Lopes, F., Kassem, L., & McMahon, F. J. (2020). Validity of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) as a screening tool for bipolar spectrum disorders in anabaptist populations. Journal of Psychiatric Research, pp. 123, 159–163. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.01.011
5. Hodgkin, D., Stewart, M. T., Merrick, E. L., Pogue, Y. Z., Reilly-Harrington, N. A., Sylvia, L. G., Deckersbach, T., & Nierenberg, A. A. (2018). Prevalence and predictors of physician recommendations for medication adjustment in bipolar disorder treatment. Journal of Affective Disorders, 238, 666–673. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.jad.2018.06.012
6. O’Donnell, L. A., Ellis, A. J., Van de Loo, M. M., Stange, J. P., Axelson, D. A., Kowatch, R. A., Schneck, C. D., & Miklowitz, D. J. (2018). Mood instability as a predictor of clinical and functional outcomes in adolescents with bipolar I and bipolar II disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, pp. 236, 199–206. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.021
7. Pinto, J. V., Saraf, G., Kozicky, J., Beaulieu, S., Sharma, V., Parikh, S. V., Cervantes, P., Daigneault, A., Walji, N., Kauer-Sant’Anna, M., & Yatham, L. N. (2020). Remission and recurrence in bipolar disorder: The data from Health Outcomes and Patient Evaluations in Bipolar Disorder (HOPE-BD) study. Journal of Affective Disorders, 268, 150–157. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.jad.2020.03.018
8. Quilty, L. C., Sellbom, M., Tackett, J. L., & Bagby, R. M. (2009). Personality trait predictors of bipolar disorder symptoms. Psychiatry Research, 169(2), 159–163. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.psychres.2008.07.004
9. Zhang, B., Wang, C., Ma, G., Fan, H., Wang, J., & Wang, W. (2018). Cerebral processing of facial emotions in bipolar I and II disorders: An event-related potential study. Journal of Affective Disorders, 236, 37–44. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uvu.edu/10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.098

Exploring Bipolar Disorder through the Lens of Demi Lovato’s Journey

Introduction: Profiling a Famous Person

Who is the celebrity you will be diagnosing? The celebrity I will be diagnosing is Demi Lovato. Demi Lovato was born on August 20, 1992, to Patrick Lovato and Dianna De La Garza in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sadly, her father, Patrick, died of cancer, but she has followed in the footsteps of her mother by becoming an actress. Demi’s mother, Dianna, in addition to being an actress, is also a producer, while Demi herself is also a singer as well as an actress. Despite being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Demi has managed to accomplish so much at such a young age and uses her platform to raise awareness of mental illness and what you can do to get help or what you can do to help others in need.

Body

Provide a description of the symptoms this individual is demonstrating

For instance, if you write, “Fred is demonstrating signs of depression, as evidenced by his feelings of worthlessness,” you must provide an example from Fred’s life history. For example, “Fred demonstrates the symptom of worthlessness, as evidenced by his constant self-degrading remarks. An example of this would be Fred’s self-description of himself as a “loser with no life purpose.”

Bipolar disorder includes a disruptive and intense experience of a manic episode. During a manic episode, the individual may experience unusually high levels of euphoria, which is the feeling state of an abnormally positive mood. “For years, people said I was depressed, and I actually didn’t know myself why I was so upset and why I would have these episodes of mania – what I now know is mania,” Demi says.

Please list the DSM V Criteria for this disorder

A distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy must last at least one week, and the symptoms must be present most of the day, nearly every day, or for any duration if hospitalization is necessary. During the period of mood disturbance and increased energy or activity, three or more of the following symptoms are present to a significant degree, four if the mood is only irritable, and represent a noticeable change from usual behavior: inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, for example, the client feels rested after, say, only 3 hours of sleep, the more talkative mood than usual or pressure to keep talking, flight of ideas or subjective experience that thoughts are racing, distractibility, for example, attention is too easily drawn to unimportant or irrelevant external stimuli, as reported or observed, increase in goal-directed activity either socially, at work or school, or sexually or psychomotor agitation, excessive engagement in activities that have high potential for painful consequences such as unrestrained buying sprees, sexual indiscretions, or foolish business investments. This episode must represent a clearly observable change in functioning but not be severe enough to require hospitalization to prevent harm to self or others.

Which criteria does your character meet? How?

Here, you will combine your answer in question 2 with DSM V diagnostic criteria. If you are unsure the individual meets a particular criteria, please write three questions you would ask to clarify. For example, if you are unsure Fred has insomnia (for the Major Depression Diagnosis), you will write: Insomnia (provisional), and the clarifying question: “I would ask Fred, how have you been sleeping.

During manic periods, Demi says she’d stay up until 5 a.m. and write seven songs in one night, showing both a decreased need for sleep and an increase in goal-directed activity. “Sometimes I felt invincible, and it was these moments when my mind would go all over the place,” she says, showing the flight of ideas and subjective experience that thoughts are racing. Not knowing what was behind her behavior led to addiction. ‘When you don’t know what’s happening, why you’re feeling certain ways, and you don’t have the answers yet, people tend to self-medicate, which is exactly what I did,’ she says. ‘Now I know that when I focus on my treatment plan with my team and my support system, I’m able to not only maintain a healthy mind, but I’m able to maintain my sobriety.’

Please research two different theories on the causes of the disorder (bio-psycho-social)

First, both genetic and environmental factors can create vulnerability to bipolar disorder. As a result, the causes vary from person to person. While the disorder can run in families, no one has definitively identified specific genes that create a risk for developing the condition. There is some evidence that advanced paternal age at conception can increase the possibility of new genetic mutations that underlie vulnerability. Imaging studies have suggested that there may be differences in the structure and function of certain brain areas, but no differences have been consistently found. Second, Life events, including various types of childhood trauma, are thought to play a role in bipolar disorder, as in other conditions. Researchers do know that once bipolar disorder occurs, life events can precipitate its recurrence. Incidents of interpersonal difficulty and abuse are most commonly associated with triggering the disorder.

Please describe the specific treatments and medications that are used for the disorder

The traditional treatment for bipolar disorder is lithium carbonate, referred to as lithium, a naturally occurring salt found in small amounts in drinking water that, when used medically, replaces sodium in the body. Clinicians advise people who have frequent manic episodes, two or more a year, to remain on lithium continuously as a preventive measure. The drawback is that even though lithium is a natural substance in the body, it can have side effects. These include mild central nervous system disturbances, gastrointestinal upsets, and more serious cardiac effects.

As a consequence, people who experience manic episodes may be reluctant or even unwilling to take lithium continuously. One of the major ways Demi maintains her mental health and sobriety is by working out for an hour to an hour and a half every day. “I actually exercise as much as possible because there’s something that it does—it just helps,” she says, explaining that she enjoys a mix of circuit training, cycling, and hiking. “I used to meditate every day, as well. I don’t do that as often anymore because I feel like exercise is kind of a form of meditation for me—what it does to me spiritually and physically.”

Please list the prevalence (i.e., age, culture, family patterns) of this disorder

Bipolar disorder has a lifetime prevalence rate of 3.9% in the U.S. population and a 12-month prevalence of 2.6%. Of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder in a given year, nearly 83% have cases classified as severe. At least half of all cases begin before a person reaches the age of 25. Approximately 60% of all individuals with bipolar disorder can live symptom-free if they receive adequate treatment. This means a large percentage continue to experience symptoms. According to one estimate, over the course of a 5-year period, people with bipolar disorder feel that their mood is normal only about half the time.

Conclusion

List some interesting facts about this disorder. (i.e., are there other famous people with the disorder?) Of all psychological disorders, bipolar disorder is the most likely to occur in people who also have problems with substance abuse. People with both bipolar and substance use disorders have an earlier onset of bipolar disorder, more frequent episodes, and a higher risk of developing anxiety and stress-related disorders, aggressive behavior, problems with the law, and risk of suicide.

References

1. Demi Lovato. (n.d.). About. Retrieved from https://www.demilovato.com/about
2. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
3. Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil. (2021). [Documentary]. Directed by Michael D. Ratner. YouTube Originals.

Differentiating Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia: Unraveling Similarities

Introduction

Due to related symptoms, mental disorders are often confused with other disorders. Educating yourself about mental disorder differences can increase your chances of distinguishing between the many disorders. “A mental disorder is a behavioral or mental pattern that causes significant personal functioning distress or impairment” (2018. April). Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder and Schizophrenia, is two examples of mental disorders. They are usually misdiagnosed because they have similar features.

What is Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is traditionally a mental disorder described in ‘insanity’ scenes. (2018, April). Some symptoms can include happiness, distractibility, fracturing, and gaudy. People often show great energy and move, think, and speak quickly. They rest barely anything, but they don’t seem to be sleepless. For example, they may also hallucinate or dream of things that are false or not present. They may be suspicious of people around them who they believe may hurt them. During a hyper scene, some probably hear voices or see things. The bipolar problem often involves acute burdensome scenes (2018, April). Bipolar-confused individuals experience scenes of extreme feelings. These have three main different types of scenes: Hyper scenes are seasons of increased movement and vitality.

A hyper scene can make you feel incredibly happy or sad. Hypomanic scenes are like hyper scenes but less vivid. Bipolar I is the most severe form of the condition. Bipolar I patients experience at least one manic episode with bipolar disease, and most people will also have depressive episodes or at least some depressive episodes. Episodes are defined as symptoms that affect a person for at least one week every day. The manic episodes are experienced in bipolar one but are often extreme for people with bipolar disorder. Bipolar II is usually diagnosed after at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomania episode. The bipolar II highs are not as high as the bipolar I highs. (2018, April)

Symptoms of Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder may exist in several types. Mania or hypomania and depression can be included. Symptoms can cause unpredictable changes in mood and behavior, leading to severe distress and life problems. Both a manic episode and a hypomanic episode produce three or more of these symptoms: Unusually upbeat, panicky, or wired; increased activity, energy, or irritation; exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence; reduced need for sleep; unusual talkative, racing thoughts; Distractibility, Poor decision making (2018, April).

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder that distorts a person’s way of thinking, acting, expressing emotions, perceiving, and relating to others. People with Schizophrenia, the most chronic and disabled of the most serious mental illnesses, have problems working in society, at work, at school, and in relationships. Schizophrenia can scare and withdraw its patient. It is a life-long disease that cannot be cured but can be treated properly. Schizophrenia is not a split or multiple personality, contrary to popular belief. Schizophrenia is a psychosis, a type of mental illness in which a person can’t tell what is real. (2017, Jan,11)

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

People with Schizophrenia may have several symptoms involving changes in functioning, thinking, perception, behavior, and personality, and they may display different kinds of behavior at different times. It is a long-term mental illness that can show its first signs in men in their late teens or early 20s, while in women, it tends to be in their early 20s and 30s. The period when symptoms first start to arise and before the onset of full psychosis is called the prodromal period. It can last days, weeks, or even years. Sometimes, it can be difficult to recognize because there is usually no specific trigger. A prodrome accompanied by what can be perceived as behavioral changes, especially in teens. This includes a change in grades, social withdrawal, trouble concentrating, temper flares, or difficulty sleeping. The most common symptoms of Schizophrenia can be grouped into several categories, including positive syamptoms, cognitive symptoms, and negative symptoms(n.d).

Bipolar and Schizophrenia compared

Blood tests for bipolar disorder or Schizophrenia are not available. Your physician will conduct a physical and mental evaluation instead. You will be simply asked about any immediate family history of mental health problems, illnesses, and symptoms during the examination. Treatment for bipolar disorder or Schizophrenia includes medication and treatment. Both for bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia, psychotherapy may include Having to learn about mood swings and how to better them by educating family members about the illness so that they can be that that that that that that supportive and help to overcome episodes that help you improve relationships with friends and colleagues who learn to manage their days to avoid possible triggers, such as lack of sleep or stress.

The schizophrenia treatment method involves antipsychotics and psychotherapy. Some of the most common antipsychotics used to treat Schizophrenia are risperidone, aripiprazole, haloperidol, paliperidone, ziprasidone, and olanzapine. A schizophrenic episode can also be experienced and never another. If you’ve only experienced one episode, you may find an organized specialty care program called Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE) helpful. This program offers Family schooling in psychotherapy medicines and supporting work or education.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia can often be successfully managed with medication and treatment. The inclusion of a support system increases your risk of handling your symptoms successfully. Family, friends, and people at work can be included in a support system. You have an increased suicide risk if you have either bipolar disorder or Schizophrenia. If you do have suicidal thoughts, see your physician. So, they also can improve outcomes. Treatment centers can help decrease the risk of suicide. To once again reduce your risk, you could also avoid alcohol and drugs.

Conclusion

Due to similar symptoms, mental disorders are often misdiagnosed. Educating yourself about mental disorder differences can increase your chances of distinguishing between the many disorders. A mental disorder is a behavioral or mental pattern that causes significant personal functioning distress or impairment. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder and Schizophrenia, is two examples of mental disorders. They are usually misdiagnosed because they have similar features.

References

1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2018, April). Mental Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-disorders/index.shtml
2. National Institute of Mental Health. (2018, April). Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2017, Jan 11). Schizophrenia. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia/index.shtml

Unmasking Bipolar Disorder: Shedding Light on its Prevalence

Introduction

How many people do you know that have a mental disorder? Well, 60 million people are affected by this illness. I will be talking about the disorder, symptoms, causes/cures, and the effect it has on the person dealing with this illness.

Body

Point 1 What is bipolar disorder?

• Bipolar disorder is an illness that causes huge mood swings
• You can go from feeling hopeless and depressed to feeling like you run the world
• Mood swings can affect sleep, energy, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly

Point 2- symptoms

• Bipolar I is a kind of bipolar disorder. At least one manic episode has occurred, maybe preceded or followed by significant depressive episodes. Mania can sometimes lead to a disconnection from reality (psychosis).
• Bipolar II is a kind of bipolar disorder. You’ve experienced at least one severe depressive episode and at least one depressive episode but no manic episode.

Cyclothymic disorder is a kind of cyclothymia. You’ve experienced frequent times of hypomania symptoms and periods of depressed symptoms for at least two years or one year in children and teens (though less severe than major depression).

Other kinds. Bipolar and associated illnesses, for example, might be caused by particular medications or alcohol or by a medical condition such as Cushing’s syndrome, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.

Both a manic and a hypomanic episode include three or more of these symptoms:

• Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, or wired;
• increased activity, energy, or agitation;
• exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence (euphoria);
• decreased need for sleep;
• unusual talkativeness, Racing thoughts, Distractibility, Poor decision-making, for example, going on buying sprees.

Point 3- Causes and cures

Causes-biological distinctions Bipolar illness patients’ brains appear to be changing physically. The importance of these alterations is currently unknown, although they may eventually aid in the identification of causes.

Genetics. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to have a first-degree family with the illness, such as a sibling or parent. Researchers are looking for genes that may have a role in the development of bipolar illness.

Cures-Treatment normally lasts a lifetime and usually consists of a mix of drugs and psychotherapy. There are some medications that can be taken as well.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is an illness that is not talked about that much, but many people struggle with this disease.

References

1. Bowden, C., & Singh, V. (2006). Bipolar disorders: Treatment options and patient satisfaction. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2(2), 149–153. https://doi.org/10.2147/nedt.2006.2.2.149
2. Carlson, P. J., Merlock, M. C., & Suppes, T. (2004). Adjunctive stimulant use in patients with bipolar disorder: Treatment of residual depression and sedation. Bipolar Disorders, 6(5), 416–420. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-5618.2004.00132.x
3. Dumont, C. M., Sheridan, L. M., Besancon, E. K., Blattner, M., Lopes, F., Kassem, L., & McMahon, F. J. (2020). Validity of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) as a screening tool for bipolar spectrum disorders in anabaptist populations. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 123, 159–163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.01.011