Category: Bipolar Disorder

Introduction

Bipolar disorder, also known as the bipolar effective disorder has been identified as a psychological disorder that is characterized by episodes of mood swings, hyperactivity among other instabilities of a normal functioning body. Historically, the disorder was referred to as the manic depression disorder.

The disorder is known to start exhibiting its traits at around the age of fifteen, but its full-blown syndrome exhibit themselves either at late adolescence or in early adulthood. Sometimes, those affected with this disorder can express levels of elevated moods where a person can have extra energy for a particular activity.

Those who experience mania or hyper mania in cases where the levels of mood elevation are too high also suffer from periods of depressions that sometimes follow the periods of elevated moods. This instability in emotions make bipolar disorder to have divergent views as far as its recognition is concerned.

It also leads to increased risks among those affected as the situations of mood swings, either to the hyperactivity or to the depressive states, leads to unstable decisions made by an actor. This indicates the severity of this disorder.

Bipolar disorder has been classified into three categories, Bipolar disorder type I, Bipolar disorder type II and the final type of the disorder being the cyclothymia, a type that involves less severe mood swings. Those diagnosed with bipolar disorder type one are said to have suffered at least one major episode of depression.

Due to this requirement for the definition of bipolar type I disorder, it was historically known as the manic depression. Those diagnosed with bipolar type II disorder are those who had never suffered from a full manic episode or depression. However, such persons are said to have experienced periods characterized with high energy levels as well as impulses that cannot be classified as severe as those experienced by type I patients.

Cyclothymia on the other hand is mild in nature as it involves less severe mood swings. Those diagnosed with this disorder are characterized by alternating periods of hypomania and mild depression. Due to their mild nature, bipolar disorder type II cyclothymia can be confused to people suffering from depression.

Literature Review

Due to its severity, the confusion surrounding its identification, its misunderstanding in the society, lack of clear understanding of how it is acquired, its prevalence in the society among many other factors associated with the disease, bipolar disorder is a heavily researched topic. In his attempt to show the causes of this disease, Miklowitz, (2010), asserts that causes of bipolar disorder are genetic in nature.

This school of thought asserts that there are many chromosomal factors that lead to the development of bipolar disorder. However, there are no conclusive studies to link the issue of bipolar disorder to genetic inheritance.

Nevertheless, some genetic factors have been identified as the main causes of the bipolar disorder. Mondimore, (2006), argues that there are little indicators to show that the issue of bipolar disorder is caused by heterogeneous factors. One of such factors, according to Yatham & Maj, (2011), is the advanced paternal age which affects the offspring sired.

Contrary to issue of genetics, Yatham & Maj, (2011), asserts that bipolar disorder is caused by physiological factors. This involves some abnormalities in the way some of the brain circuits work. However, opponents of this view argue that the differences that are recorded in the brain circuits of those suffering from the bipolar disorder are not the causal factors, but are the products of the disease itself.

This means that it is the presence of the bipolar disorder that alters the functioning of the brain circuits as opposed to the brain circuits leading to the presence of the disease. The final factor that is given to the possible causes of the bipolar disorder is the environmental factor.

According to Mondimore, (2006), environmental factors may interact with other factors such as the genetic factors to trigger the disease. While it is true that the environmental factors can be triggering factors for the disease, there is no enough evidence to show how environmental factors act as the causal factors.

Just like it is hard to know the exact causes of the bipolar disorder, it is very hard to diagnose whether one has the disease or not. As noted by Miklowitz, (2010), one of the major reasons why the disease is hard to diagnose is because there are no set symptoms that characterize it.

This means that symptoms that may be viewed as being those of bipolar disorder may vary from one society to the other hence jeopardizing the quest of the concerned stakeholders to come up with a universal diagnosis. Lack of universally accepted symptoms of the psychological disease further contributes to wrong diagnosis hence affecting the quality of attention given to those who are classified as affected.

Another major weakness as far as diagnosis of the situation is concerned has been identified by Mondimore, (2006), who notes that it may take up to ten years before a correct diagnosis is given. In most cases, those affected by this disorder may end up being classified as patients of severe depression of hyperactivity.

When such wrong diagnoses are given, the patients are further affected in the sense that they are given medications that ate not meant to treat their problem. This affects the quality of healing experienced by the patients. For instance, when patients of bipolar disorder are treated for severe depression, their chances for recurrence of the depressive state increase due to the wrong diagnosis.

Bipolar disorder is also known to trigger the urge for substance abuse. This further affects the process of diagnosis as most professionals, family members and other caregivers may associate periods of hyperactivity or depression with the effects of the substances being abused by the patients.’

This makes Mountain, (2003), to argue that the main problem that makes it hard to diagnose bipolar disorder in its early stages is that it often triggers many other incidences that may interfere with the ability of the health professionals to suspect its presence. He further notes that bipolar disorder is manifested by signs and symptoms that are associated with many other psychological effects that have a higher prevalence in the society hence the higher chances for a wrong diagnosis.

As far as treatment is concerned, Castle & Peter, (2002), note that there is no a directly known treatment for the disease. However, patients of bipolar disorder can receive medical attention that can help them maintain their mood swings. David, (2008), further notes that the fact that the disorder is life-long necessitates a lifelong treatment.

However, it is important to note that even where there is medication, not everyone responds to medication effectively. In such cases, the patients are put under various medications to ensure that the best treatment is established. Among the common treatments associated with this disorder are the mood stabilizers.

This is often the very first option for treating bipolar disorder. Patients who are given this form of treatment normally continue with it for years. Most of these mood stabilizers are also anticonvulsants that can be used to treat seizers.

The first mood stabilizer to be medically accepted by the relevant licensing body for the treatment of bipolar disorder was lithium, the only stabilizer that does not fall under the category of anticonvulsants. Other forms of treatment associated with this disorder include the atypical antipsychotic medications and the Antidepressant medications. In most cases, these medications are taken together with mood stabilizers.

Implications

The effects of bipolar disorder to the patient’s way of life cannot be ignored. As far as daily life is concerned, the disease has tremendous effects to the quality of decisions taken by the patients. As already noted, the disease triggers the urge for drug abuse which has a tremendous effect to the quality of life.

The disease is also associated with issues of alternating mood swings which makes the patients unpredictable and misunderstood by those within their environment, especially if such people have little knowledge of the effects of the disease. Patients can also result to irrational decisions that can have dangerous effects to their social life.

Such irrational acts may include promiscuity which may endanger the life of such patients, or irrational spending sprees that may jeopardize the financial stability of the patients. At the workplace, patients can find it hard to concentrate in their work especially during periods of mania or other forms of depression.

This jeopardizes the productivity of such patients that may result to disciplinary actions or even termination. This further exacerbates the disease as such environmental factors can further trigger periods of severe depression.

Periods of hyperactivity are also detrimental at the workplace. As noted by Mondimore, (2006), one of the major symptoms for a period of hyperactivity is unrealistic confidence on self-ability. Such unrealistic self-confidence can make a person at the workplace to undermine the need for teamwork especially if tasks were to be completed with urgency.

This can severely hamper the work relations and to some extent, the withdrawal of the team members at a particular task. When such withdrawal occurs, the patient is left to accomplish the set target alone, which is virtually impossible as the targets were unrealistic in the first place. These further exacerbate chances of the period of hyperactivity being replaced by a period of severe depression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is evident that bipolar disorder is a disease that is poorly understood by most facets of the society. Even in the medical realm, the disease still experiences poor understanding in the sense that it is hard for the medics to come up with an effective diagnosis.

The fact that the disease may take up to ten years before a correct diagnosis is made is an indication that there is a need for more efforts to understand bipolar disorder. Above this, there is a need for measures to be put in place to ensure that correct diagnosis is made early enough to eliminate chances of suicide or adoption of different forms of risky behavior such as drug abuse.

References

Castle, L., R. & Peter, C., M. (2002). Bipolar Disorder Demystified: Mastering the Tightrope of Manic Depression. New York: Da Capo Press.

David, M. (2008). Bipolar disorder: a family-focused treatment approach. New York: Guilford Press.

Miklowitz, D., J. (2010). The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide: What You and Your Family Need to Know. Boston: Guilford Press.

Mondimore, F., M. (2006).Bipolar disorder: a guide for patients and families. New York: Johns Hopkins University Press.

Mountain, J. (2003). Bipolar Disorder: Insights for Recovery. Chicago: Chapter One Press.

Yatham, L., N. & Maj, M. (2011). Bipolar Disorder: Clinical and Neurobiological Foundations. 2^nd Ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a mental issue that is accompanied by stress, anxiety, and mood shifts. There are three main kinds of mood episodes helping to recognize this disorder. They include manic episodes, hypomanic episodes, and depressive episodes. The episodes vary in terms of duration or severity. Also, some causes of this disorder include an interaction of genes and environmental factors among others. The disorder can be diagnosed within the first 15 years. St. Augustine in Florida is a town known for many organizations that offer treatment of a bipolar disorder.

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is also referred to as Bipolar Affective Disorder. Manic-depressive illness is another common name for this disorder. This mental disorder comes along with depression. The disease occurs when one is depressed or feels agitated in life. The patients that suffer from this disorder often feel apathetic to participate in distracting activities, so the depressive feeling affects their relationships, family life, and career. However, once the depressive stage is over the patients feel energetic and revitalized. This disorder is very serious and in the most severe cases may lead to the death of the patients. Nevertheless, the disease can be controlled medically or through psychological counseling.

Psychological disorder and the local organization

St. Augustine, Florida is one of the oldest cities in the United States. This is a city with outstanding history due to which it serves as a place of attraction for many students every year.

This paper explores the complex issue of bipolar disorder and the organizations specialized in providing professional treatment of bipolar disorder located in St. Augustine.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Manic Episodes

In terms of bipolar disorder, mania refers to a period of more than seven days when a patient experiences rather unexpected and radical mood shifts. The condition may be accompanied by a feeling of euphoria. In particular, in the initial stages of mania a person may be very talkative, active, over-stimulated, internally undergo emotional torture, and have irrational thoughts. Also, one behaves in a very expressive manner and ends up engaging in impulsive behaviors such as hyperactive and exaggerated sexuality (Goodwin & Sachs, 2010).

The research shows that a patient with bipolar disorder tends to spend money irresponsibly, commit other impulsive actions, and attack a close person lacking a reasonable social motive. The bipolar individual may suffer from forgetfulness and frustration, which is likely to affect their professional performance. Further, mania often causes problems with sleep based on anxieties and nervousness and frequently results in substance abuse which happens because the exaggerated emotions and hypersensitivity force the individual to look for ways to calm down and relax.

Hypomanic Episodes

This kind of episode refers to a period of 4 days when a bipolar individual tends to show certain behaviors such as boycotting hospitalization, unreasonable stubbornness, and suspiciousness among others. It is a state that occurs before manic episodes within bipolar disorder. The hypomanic individual does not experience mood swings and feelings that are as severe as the ones of a manic person. This allows the bipolar individual to socialize with friends and family, and even perform their professional duties. Denial is a typical behavior for this stage of bipolar disorder episode, the patients may reject the fact that they suffer from a psychological problem.

Professional Opinions

Medical professionals believe that bipolar disorder is caused by several behaviors. Firstly, substance abuse can be one way of creating room for bipolar disorder. Secondly, this disorder is genetically inherited from the parents and passed to the next generation. Finally, there is an opinion that the surroundings of an individual may cause bipolar disorder.

Characteristics of Bipolar Disorder and Interpretation by Different Cultures

Comorbid Conditions

The treatment of bipolar disorder may become difficult because of the conditions such as substance abuse, eating disorders, social phobias, and panic attacks among others. Consequently, the family members or close friends of the patients should report the disorder when still in manic stages.

Cause of Comorbid conditions

Genetic inheritance

It is genetically proved that various locations of the chromosomes and candidate genes are the carriers of bipolar disorder and its probability. Once inherited, the disorder spreads out from one generation to another. For this reason, a fraternity may end up suffering from the same problem.

Environment

The environment also expedites the development of bipolar disorder in society. Environmental factors underscore the spread of this disorder. The life events of a person may expose the individual to this disorder. For instance, a child from an environment prone to suicidal cases is likely to develop bipolar disorder in adult life.

Physiological

Certain brain malfunctions may be able to cause bipolar disorder. Scientific research shows that when there is an increase in lateral ventricles or Globus pallidus plus the increase in the concentration of white matter hyperintensities, then the parson is likely to develop complications related to bipolar disorder. The data collected based on MRI results show that irregular cadence between the ventral prefrontal and limbic areas such as amygdale contributes to the rapid and radical mood signs (Hornbacher, 2008). Stress makes people who are genetically predisposed to bipolar disorder moody and irritable. Besides, activities of Mitochondrion and ATPase pump increase the chances of developing bipolar disorder.

Impacts of Organizational Cultures on the Interpretation of Symptoms of the Disorder

Different approaches have influenced the interpretation of the symptoms and diagnosis of the disorder. For example, the belief that the disorder is genetically inherited poses a major diagnosis of the disorder. The disorder is addressed in the most successful way when it is diagnosed during the teen age or early to mid-twenties of the patients. Preferably, the diagnosis should be underway when the condition goes on for over a decade. The treatment of the disorder considers certain factors such as abnormal behaviors of the person and observable symptoms among others. American Psychiatric Association is one of the most well-known organizations that perform the treatment of the bipolar disorder (Yusoff, 2008).

St. Augustine, Florida

This is a city known for its fascinating features. St. Augustine, Florida has many local organizations that treat and manage the development of the bipolar disorder. The success occurs due to a large number of professionals in the sphere of psychiatry who manage the large population of the area.

Support Groups

Apart from some individual counselors and other medical professionals, there are several non-professional organizations in St. Augustine. These groups have a purpose to provide responsive care to the patients with mental disorders (bipolar namely) in addition to the treatment they receive pharmaceutically. Among such groups, there are Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Group Florida (DBSA) and Catholic Moral Theology Group. These organizations develop communities for patients with mental issues and provide understanding, togetherness, and support for patients who feel lonely and lost.

Recommendation

The services offered by these organizations increase the efficiency of pharmaceutical treatment of the bipolar disorder. More of such support groups are needed. Besides, they should be oriented at individuals with different inclinations and personalities. The feeling of belonging, mutual help, and understanding on the human level is what frustrated and deeply sensitive bipolar individuals require.

Reference List

Goodwin, G., & Sachs, G. (2010). Bipolar Disorder (2nd ed.). Abingdon: HEALTH Press.

Hornbacher, M. (2008). Madness: A bipolar life. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

Yusoff, K. (2008). Bipolar. London: Arts Catalyst.

Hendrix is one of the renowned musicians who left a legacy despite the fact that he did not live for long because he was only twenty seven at his death. One of his outstanding songs is titled maniac depression which is also known as bipolar disorder. Critical analysis of the song reveals that there is a high possibility that Hendrix may have been writing about his mood disorder although there is no evidence of the same.

However, even though he was writing about his mood disorder which he described as maniac depression, it is clear that there are some differences between his description of the disorder and the DSM-IV-TR description of the same.

With that background in mind, this essay discusses the difference between Hendrix and DSM-IV-TR description of maniac depression. In addition, the paper shall also focus on the similarity between regular cocaine addiction and maniac depression symptoms.

The whole song by Hendrix discusses all the feelings and emotions that the victim was experiencing. Hendrix begins by illustrating his emotions.

He says that he knows what he ought to do but he does not know how to do it. The song also illustrates a happy mood since he says that he is feeling sweet. However, the feeling is followed by a feeling of frustration as the singer indicates that he cannot be able to make love and ends up being frustrated. The last part indicates a feeling of hopelessness as he says that it is better for him to quit (Hendrix, 2002).

As much as the song is titled maniac depression, the description is limited in describing the same in relation to the description of DSM-IV-TR. To begin with, DSM-IV-TR describes the disorder as a condition characterized by major changes in the mood of a person; characterized by either high or low moods (Durand & Barlow, 2005).

Hendrix song illustrates that the person is aware of the problem but according to the DSM-IV-TR, the victim is usually not aware of the problem and such victims believe that all is well with them. In addition, Hendrix illustrates hopelessness and frustration while DSM-IV-TR indicates that victims of bipolar disorder often believe that they have super power abilities and can do everything (First, Frances, & Pincus, 2004).

Therefore, while the description of Hendrix is more on emotional symptoms, the description of DSM-IV-TR is all inclusive as it illustrates psychological, emotional and physical symptoms of the disorder.

Symptoms of the maniac depression can be similar to the symptoms of other disorders resulting from the addiction of psychoactive substances like cocaine. Most importantly, regular cocaine addiction leads to depression and a number of symptoms associated with the condition are similar to the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

For instance, rapid speech is one of the symptoms that characterize cocaine addiction. Similarly, people suffering from maniac disorder are also rapid speakers as they jump from one topic to another since they usually lack concentration. In addition, some symptoms of regular cocaine addiction such as irritability and disturbed sleep are also present in some forms of the maniac depression (Platt, 2000).

Bipolar disorder is generally a mood disorder characterized by intense changes in the level of energy, behavior as well as mood (Carson, Butcher & Mineka, 1999). It is important to note that it is a complicated disorder as it contains a wide range of symptoms. It is much more than an experience of different emotions as the lyric of Hendrix illustrates.

In addition, the study has also indicated that some symptoms of cocaine addiction mimic some symptoms of maniac depression. The most outstanding feature of the bipolar disorder is the fact that it is characterized by depressive episodes hence why it can be confused with other mood disorders.

References

Carson, R. C., Butcher, J. N. & Mineka, S. (1999). Abnormal psychology and modern life. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Durand, V. M. & Barlow, D. H. (2005). Essentials Of Abnormal Psychology. Stamford: Cengage Learning.

First, M. B., Frances, A. & Pincus, H. A. (2004). DSM-IV-TR guidebook. Cambridge: Harvard University Press .

Hendrix, J. (2002). Manic Depression Lyrics. Web.

Platt, J. J. (2000). Cocaine Addiction: Theory, Research and Treatment. Cambridge: Harvard University Press .

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by intermittent moods and fitful energy levels thus affecting the ability of the patient to function normally. The disorder affects the neurons in the brain, hence causing uncoordinated functions of the brain. The functions of the brain rely upon the intermittent moods of depression and mania that characterize the disorder.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) observes that, “manic-depression distorts moods and thoughts, incites dreadful behaviors, destroys the basis of rational thought, and too often erodes the desire and will to live … brings in its wake almost unendurable suffering and, not infrequently, suicide” (2002).

The disorder mostly affects adults although some cases in children occur due to the inheritable nature of the disorder. Prevalence studies by the American Psychiatric Association shows that, approximately 1.5% of the American adults suffer from bipolar disorder. Given the fact that the disorder is long-term, proper handling mechanisms is paramount to both the patients and health professionals. This essay explores the nature of the bipolar disorder and its management.

Signs and symptoms

The bipolar disorder causes periodic episodes of depression and mania in patients. The intermittent depressive and manic episodes affect the physical and psychological functions of the patients causing them to have abnormal behaviors. During the depressive episode, the patient experiences low moods and loss of interests in the daily activities.

The signs and symptoms of depressive episode include anxiety, feeling of helplessness, loss of pleasure in activities, fatigue, petulance, sleep disturbance, suicidal feelings, and chronic pain amongst other clinical symptoms. “In severe cases, the individual may become psychotic, a condition also known as severe bipolar depression with psychotic features such as delusions or, less commonly, hallucinations, usually unpleasant” (Grier, & Wilkins, 2007, p.2).

The state of severe bipolar depression may last for about two weeks to several months in adults but in children, it may take several hours to days. Patients at the depressive episode have low mood and energy to perform usual activities.

During the manic episode, the patient experiences high mood with high energy levels in the body that results into increased body activity. The signs and symptoms of the manic episode include increased activity, extreme irritability, high energy levels, little sleep, aggressive, poor judgment and distractibility amongst other symptoms. If these signs and symptoms occur daily for a period of two weeks, then the patient is in the manic episode. The activity of the patient is due to the high energy levels that the body generates.

At some instances, patient may experience moderate effects of mania referred to as hypomania; “Hypomania may feel good to the person who experiences it and may even be associated with good functioning and enhanced productivity … ” (Simeonova, & Chang, 2005, p.5). Apart from depressive and manic episodes, a patient can also experience mixed episodes of the bipolar disorder and this complicates the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of the disorder.

Causes of the Disorder

Scientists have discovered that a bipolar disorder occurs due to the combination of different factors. Many scientific studies suggest that the possible causes of the bipolar disorder are genetic, environmental, and physiological conditions. Genetic studies indicate that, “children with a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder are four to six times more likely to develop the illness, compared with children who do not have a family history of bipolar disorder” (Simeonova, & Chang, 2005, p.624).

This implies that the bipolar disorder is genetic disease and that parents with the disorder predispose their kids to the same. Family history studies of the patients suffering from the bipolar disorder revealed that, at least one or more members of their families had suffered from some other psychiatric condition if not bipolar disorder. The prevalence of the disorder to certain families proves that it is a genetic disorder.

Further scientific studies have proved that environmental conditions also can cause bipolar disorder. Prospective and case studies reveal that the historical experiences of the patients determine their susceptibility to the bipolar disorder. “There have been repeated findings that between a third and a half of adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder report traumatic/abusive experiences in childhood, which is associated on average with earlier onset, a worse course, and more co-occurring disorders” (Simeonova, & Chang, 2005, p. 625).

These findings affirmed that interaction of the genetic and environmental conditions influence the susceptibility to the bipolar disorder. Case studies of adult patients showed that they experienced harsh environmental conditions as compared with those having with the genetic predisposition.

Another cause of the bipolar disorder is the physiological condition of the brain due to its structure. The comparative examination of brains shows that bipolar patients have relatively abnormal brain structure. Imaging studies reveal, “…the pattern of brain development in children with bipolar disorder was similar to that in children with ‘multi-dimensional impairment,’ a disorder that causes symptoms that overlap somewhat with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia” (NIMH, 2002).

The abnormal structure of the brain affects the physiological chemicals that are critical in normal functioning of the brain. For instance, insufficient neurotransmitters and neuron with defects contribute in causing the bipolar disorder.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis and the treatment of the bipolar disorder require the concerted efforts of the family and psychiatrists. The family members should aid the psychiatrist by noting the clinical symptoms and providing the historical information for the psychiatrist to ascertain the cause of the disorder. “Anyone who is thinking about committing suicide needs immediate attention, preferably from a mental health professional or a physician …anyone who talks about suicide should be taken seriously” (NIMH, 2002).

Family members should note the conditions of the patient and report them to the psychiatrist who will conduct diagnostic procedures. For example, a psychiatrist may conduct brain scan and blood test to rule out complications of a tumor before considering the disorder as a bipolar disorder.

The psychiatrist will then evaluate the diagnostics tests and determine whether the condition is a bipolar disorder or not. Information concerning family history with regard to the disorder coupled with some clinical signs in most cases is enough to determine if the condition under investigation is bipolar disorder or not.

Since bipolar disorder is a long-term illness, the management of the disorder entails the use of chemotherapy and psychotherapy techniques.

Chemotherapy involves the use of medications that control and alleviates the devastating clinical symptoms. Usually, “…people with bipolar disorder continue treatment with mood stabilizers for extended periods of time and other medications are added when necessary, typically for shorter periods, to treat episodes of mania or depression that break through despite the mood stabilizer” (Simeonova, & Chang, 2005, p.628).

These medications are very important in regulating and stabilizing intermittent moods that characterize the bipolar disorder. Lithium and valproate are very effective drugs in stabilizing the mood of the patients for they are mood stabilizers.

Psychotherapy is another method used in treating bipolar disorder. Many psychiatrists have found out that psychotherapy can be very effective in stabilizing the mood of the patient. “Cognitive behavioral therapy, family focused therapy and psycho-education have the most evidence for efficacy in regard to relapse prevention, while interpersonal and social rhythm therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy appear the most effective in regard to residual depressive symptoms” (Grier, & Wilkins, 2007, p.10).

Cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-education helps the patient to recognize and control the negative moods. Focused family therapy encourages the family members to create a homely environment that will not trigger moods swings of the patient. For effective treatment, family environment and medication are essential in management of the bipolar disorder.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is a neurological and psychological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain. Periodic moods changes characterize the disorder in that the patients experience manic and depressive episodes depending on the psychological condition. The signs and symptoms vary from low moods through intermediate moods to high moods.

Varied studies have shown that physiological, environmental, and genetic factors predispose an individual to the bipolar disorder. Although the disorder is a long-term illness, chemotherapy and psychotherapy has proved to be the current effective ways of managing the disorder. In the view of the technological advancement, scientists are still designing effective chemotherapy methods coupled with other clinical interventions that would help in managing the disorder in a better way.

References

Grier, E., & Wilkins, A. (2007). Bipolar Disorder: Educational Implication for Secondary Students. National Associations of Psychologists, 1-12.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2002). Bipolar Disorder. Web.

Simeonova, D., & Chang, K. (2005). Creativity in Familial Bipolar Disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 39 (7), 623-631.

Introduction

The terms “cognitive behavioral therapy” are used diversely to capture a number of therapy based either on cognitive therapy, behavior therapy or on a combination of both. The use of cognitive-behavioral therapy for bipolar disorder was started in the late 1990s. This paper addresses the issues related to the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy for people with bipolar disorder.

The Content of the Therapy for Bipolar Disorder

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for bipolar disorder has unique features that distinguish the treatment of depression from that of bipolar disorder by the same therapy. Given that people with bipolar disorder are likely to experience relapse, the therapy involves additional delivery of medication to stabilize the mood swings.

Emphasis on psychoeducation regarding the nature of the disorder makes the patient to understand his/her biological susceptibility to episodes of mania and depression. According to the group of researchers (3), since stressors spark off these episodes, the patient therefore, learns to identify and control then in order to reduce the frequency of occurrence of the clinical episodes.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps the patient to understand how his/her distorted positive and negative thinking may trigger the stressors into action. For instance, a patient with distorted positive thinking occurring within a manic episode may easily think that s/he has power and value that can do marvelous things.

Such skewed thinking can lead a patient to make decisions, say of extravagant expenditure, with devastating negative repercussions to the family. Moreover, the therapy enables patients with bipolar disorder to manage their regular daily activities/routines.

According to Alloy, Nusslock, and Boland (1), when left without the therapy, such individuals often experience disrupted routines and poor sleep that increase the risk of developing mania.
In cognitive-behavioral therapy, the prevention of relapse is a key aspect of treatment for patients with bipolar disorder. Usually, individuals are between manic episodes or depression when they seek for treatment.

The occurrences of manic episodes often leave the patient with terrible negative consequences and therefore, it is important for the patient and the practitioner to work together and identify the warning symptoms in order to develop a coping strategy. Early diagnosis is important because it helps engage individuals who experience manic signs in cognitive-behavioral therapy, especially if they are suicidal or early in their condition.

The reason being, they are highly likely to be in denial of their situation and refuse to be treated. As researchers (1) remark, people with long history of bipolar disorder, on the other hand, may have developed co-occurring disorders (for example, substance abuse) and a degree of neuropsychological impairment that need to be considered and treated concurrently.

According to a report published by Bond and Anderson (2), the effects of cognitive-behavioral, therapy for patients of bipolar disorders were found to be positive for those who had been on treatment for over six months. In this study, participants were given between twelve to twenty sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy and the results compared to the traditional method of treatment.

The participants who were placed under cognitive-behavioral therapy reported fewer episodes of either depression or mania, and a fewer instances of hospital admissions. Moreover, in six months after undergoing the treatment, patients for cognitive-behavioral therapy reported higher social interactions and fewer cases of depression (2).

It should also be mentioned that cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective on patients who have experienced episodes of mania or depression not more than six times. Moreover, it has been observed that treating patients with bipolar disorders using components of cognitive-behavioral therapy such as relapse prevention and psychoeducation are crucial in reducing the frequency of relapse (1). Cognitive-behavioral treatment is so far the best way to medically address the problem of bipolar disorder.

Prediction of a Better Response to Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Bipolar Disorder

As mentioned earlier, people with a history of less than six episodes of depression or mania and those with fewer co-occurring disorders reported positive feedback for cognitive-behavioral therapy treatment. Furthermore, individuals who gave a realistic sense of themselves, recognizing their limitations did benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy (1). However, those who reported unrealistic sense of themselves such as high intelligence, high levels of energy, and creativity never benefited from cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Accordingly, therefore, it is observed that the severity of an illness can be used to predict a person’s response to medication. Some people with bipolar disorder are passionate about manic episodes since they feel more creative and productive during these incidents. When exaggerated, these beliefs are often challenged during cognitive-behavioral therapy treatment, mostly when trying to avoid damages of depressive episodes (1).

Due to the devastation that bipolar disorder causes in families with affected members, it is important to screen for manic episodes and interview family members in order to identify and treat bipolar disorder. Therefore, family members will be at a better position to identify early warning symptoms of either manic or depressive episode and prevent it. They can also ensure that the affected member sticks to his/her treatment schedule.

Conclusion

Cognitive-behavioral therapy combines aspects of cognitive therapy with behavioral therapy in offering treatment for bipolar disorders. The content of cognitive-behavioral therapy provides for medical intervention for the reason that people who suffer from bipolar disorder experience relapse. The content also has psychoeducational provision that enables patients to identify and cope with signs of manic and depressive episodes.

It has been noted that cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective on individuals who have had fewer than six episodes of manic or depressive disorders. Families should also be involved in cognitive-behavioral therapy given the devastation wrought by bipolar disorder. By identifying the early signs of manic episodes in the affected member, they will be able to prevent the disorder or seek medical attention in time.

References

1. Alloy LB, Nusslock R, Boland EM. The development and course of bipolar spectrum disorders: an integrated reward and circadian rhythm dysregulation model. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology. 2015;11:213-250.
2. Bond K, Anderson IM. Psychoeducation for relapse prevention in bipolar disorder: a systematic review of efficacy in randomized controlled trials. Bipolar Disorders: An International Journal of Psychiatry and Neurosciences. 2015;17(4):349-362.
3. Chiang KJ, Tsai JC, Liu D, et al. Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in patients with bipolar disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One. 2017;12(5):e0176849.

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder that is characterized by mood swings. A child suffering from this disorder may be very happy in one instance and may easily become sad for no good reason. According to Bardick and Bernes (2005), bipolar disorder may be ignored because it is not accompanied by physical pain. However, it brings mental torture that may be unbearable to a child. That is why Guest (2013) suggests that this disorder should be treated before it leads to other serious mental problems. In this study, the researcher seeks to support the argument that bipolar disorder among children should be diagnosed and treated.

Informed Perspective of the Topic

The researcher strongly supports the idea of diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder among children in order to avoid negative consequences it might bring. According to Guest and Fieldman (2011), mood swings is always an indication of mental weakness. Feelings of happiness and sadness should have a reasonable justification. When a person becomes extremely agitated or very sad without a clear reason for it, then it is a sign of mental weakness. Such conditions should not be ignored because they can be symptoms of a serious mental sickness (Tina, 2008). Diagnosis of bipolar disorder should be considered as soon as a child is detected to have abnormal mood swings. As Guest (2013) says, an early intervention may help a child from mental distress that may result into serious health complications.

Discussion

Medical experts have suggested that bipolar disorder among children should be diagnosed and treated because if it is ignored, then the child may develop serious mental illnesses. This suggestion has been supported by a number of studies by scholars in this field. A study by Bardick and Bernes (2005) focused on the consequences of bipolar disorder among the children as they grow into adolescent stage.

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between bipolar disorder among the children and drug abuse. Quantitative method involving 200 participants was used in order to find out if drug abuse among adolescents has any relationship with bipolar disorder. It was found that children who suffered from bipolar disorder were four times more likely to become drug addicts. The results showed that this disorder led to mental suffering that drove adolescents into drug abuse and alcoholism as a solution to their problems.

It was more prevalent among children who were ignored by their parents. As they became adolescents, they developed a feeling that the only way of solving their problem is to engage in alcoholism and drug abuse. These are practices which are harmful to the health of the adolescent. For this reason, the findings of this study support the argument that bipolar disorder should be diagnosed and treated in order to avoid its consequences.

The study by Bardick and Bernes (2005) focused on determining the relationship between bipolar disorder and tendency to have symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsive risky behavior. The study involved 100 youths who had suffered from bipolar disorder when they were children. In this qualitative research, it was established that children who suffered from bipolar disorder were more likely to engage in impulsive risky behaviors, especially if their condition is ignored for a long time compared to their normal counterparts. Such children may develop suicidal thoughts when they get depressed. A feeling of being of limited value to people around them and the society in general may become too painful to bear.

When such feelings are not managed by the affected child with the help from people around it, then such a child can easily commit suicide. Other than committing suicide, such children can engage in other risky behaviors that may harm people around them or destroy properties as a way of expressing their frustration. The findings of this study strongly support the argument of the researcher that bipolar disorder should be diagnosed and treated. This is the only way that such a child’s safety and security of people around it will be assured.

The study by Sutton (2013) focused on determining the relationship between bipolar disorder and anxiety among the children. Anxiety is an undesirable mental problem that medical experts always suggest should not be ignored at all costs, especially among the children. Anxiety has a strong negative effect on a child’s capacity to learn. In this qualitative study, the researcher used 100 participants which included teachers and children aged below 12 years.

The study found out that children who suffered from prolonged bipolar disorder were likely to develop anxiety disorders. This slowed their mental development capacity. Such children performed dismally in their classes and were unsocial. They had few friends and avoided sharing their problems with anyone, the fact that would worsen their condition. This study supports the idea that bipolar disorder among children is an undesirable mental problem that should be addressed to enable them develop as normal children.

Another study that was reviewed focused on how mental sickness is related to bipolar disorder. This qualitative study by Guest and Fieldman (2011) used 180 participants. The participants included medical experts, parents and teachers who have handled children with mental sicknesses. This study found out that most of children who acquired mental sickness had suffered from bipolar disorder. This disorder was ignored when it was detected and it worsened, becoming a serious mental sickness that requires proper medication. In some extreme cases, such a child would become mad. This is an undesirable outcome that should be avoided at all costs. Before it reaches such a stage, it is appropriate to come up with measures that can help mitigate it to help such a child to develop as other normal children.

Conclusion

This research has confirmed that bipolar disorder in children should be diagnosed and treated in order to avoid negative consequences that it may bring on a child. In many cases, this health problem may be ignored by relevant people such as parents and teachers. However, its effect may have serious implications on the normal development of a child. If not handled properly, such a child may be a threat to itself and other members of the society around it. This disorder may develop into a permanent mental sickness.

References

Bardick, A. & Bernes, K. (2005). A Closer Examination of Bipolar Disorder in School-Age Children. Professional School Counseling, 9(1), 72-77.

Guest, A. M. (2013). Taking sides: Clashing views in life-span development. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Guest, M. & Fieldman, S. (2011). Biomarkers of neurological and psychiatric disease. Amsterdam: Academic Press.

Sutton, K. (2013). Childhood Bipolar Disorder: A Difficult Diagnosis. Beyond Behavior, 23(1), 30-37.

Tina, H. (2008). Body and Brain: Possible Link between Inflammation and Bipolar Disorder. Journal of Nursing, 173 (15), 228-229.

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric diagnosis defined by one or more episodes of abnormally elevated mood which can be combined or not with one or more depressive episodes.

There are three main types of bipolar disorder, including bipolar I disorder characterized with at least one manic or mixed episode, bipolar II disorder defined by at least one hypomanic and at least one depressive episode and bipolar NOS which does not belong to either of the subgroups.

This paper will discuss the difficulties of identifying the symptoms of bipolar II disorder which is recognized as the most frequent one, the stages of assessment required for the adequate diagnosis of condition and the effectiveness and challenges of different treatments and their combination.

Regardless of the fact that the bipolar disorder is the sixth recognized cause of disability in America, it is a chronic psychiatric disease which can often be misdiagnosed (Leahy 417).

Diagnosing of the bipolar II disorder is complicated with its complex and diverse presentation of the symptoms. Medical comorbidity characteristic of this condition is another influential factor which should be taken into account for assessing all the symptoms in their complexity.

“Medical conditions found at increased rates include coronary heart disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, dysplidemias, and hepatitis” (Leahy 418). These comorbid medical conditions can be the consequences of the reduced self-care which exacerbate the depression and stress in patients with bipolar II disorder.

Practitioners have to recognize not only mania itself as the diagnostic sign for the bipolar disorder, but also hypomania and mixed states (Leahy 419). Patients can quickly move from one condition to another and try to conceal certain symptoms which are critical for diagnosing this psychiatric disease.

The process of the premedication assessment is significantly complicated with the fact that patients with bipolar II disorder frequently have more than one mental dysfunction. This group of comorbid conditions includes anxiety, personality disorders and substance abuse which in their turn can increase the rates of aggressively, impulsivity and even suicidality.

A comprehensive and detailed clinical assessment of the prior history of psychiatric conditions and the current mental state should be undertaken for formulating the right diagnosis, developing and implementing the most effective intervention strategies (Malhi et al 2065).

Taking into account the fact that patients with bipolar disorder not only frequently do not recognize their disease, but also can have poor recollections of concrete episodes, it is necessary to consult their friends and family members for obtaining more accurate information and identifying the symptom patterns.

Thus, the adequate diagnosis of bipolar II disorder requires a detailed assessment of not only actual symptoms, but also the possible comorbid physical and mental conditions, analysis of the past psychiatric history and the current condition.

The common treatments used for the patients with bipolar II disorder include the combination of psychological treatments and pharmacotherapy. Thus, the common psychological treatments include interpersonal social group, family-focused and cognitive-behavioral types (Leahy 419).

Regarding the pharmacological treatments for bipolar depression, the drugs which can be effective for improving the patients’ condition and reducing the risks of suicide include anti-depressants and non-antidepressants. The group of non-antidepressants includes lithium salts, anticolvunsants and antipsychotics.

Currently, polytherapy as a combination of different drugs and treatment patterns is recognized as the most effective intervention strategy (Baldessarini 148).

It should be noted that the abrupt drug discontinuation causes the recurrence of anxiety and can be followed by hypomanic episodes. Thus, the treatments for the patients with bipolar II disorder need to include a combination of drugs and psychosocial rehabilitative efforts.

Taking into account the fact that the adequate diagnosis and effective treatment of the bipolar disorder II remains an unsolved challenge for modern psychiatric practitioners, it can be stated that serious consideration should be given to complex approaches to the assessment, diagnosing and treatment of the patients with the symptoms of bipolar II disorder.

Works Cited

Baldessarini, Ross, Eduard Vieta, Joseph Calabrese, Mauricio Tohen and Charles Bowden. “Bipolar Depression: Overview and Commentary”. Harvard Review Psychiatry May/June 2010, 18: 143-157.

Leahy, Robert. “Bipolar Disorders: Causes, Contexts, and Treatments”. Journal of Clinical Psychology 2007, 63(5): 417-424.

Malhi, Jin, Danielle Adams, Catherine Cahill, Seetal Dodd and Michael Berk. “The Management of Individuals with Bipolar Disorder: A Review of the Evidence and Its Integration into Clinical Practice”. Drugs 2009, 69(15): 2063-2101

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression during its discovery, affects millions of lives today. Living with this disease can be life changing, leaving the victim feeling isolated with no knowledge on how to cope or why one has such raging emotions and fear that can lead to an outburst of depression, sadness and some cases of harmful rage.

This comes from within and out of the blue. This disorder affects every race, all ages from the very young to the old. Male and females are affected, but not equally (Smith and Segal, 2011, p. 1).

Understanding bipolar and how it affects your mind and physical health is very helpful in coping with it. This helps one understand more about the symptoms associated with the disorder and alongside various medical treatments, therapy and support from loved ones, this disorder is very manageable.

As mentioned above, bipolar disorder leads to unusual changes in emotional status of affected individuals. There are common symptoms of the disorder that can help family members identify the illness. Long periods of extreme happiness or a high is a common sign of the disorder.

Patients of this disorder often get agitated very fast and for no good reasons alongside having a jumpy feeling. Restlessness and lack of sleeps is also a common sign. Other patients have impulsive behaviors and unrealistic beliefs on their capacities.

As the disorder progresses, the affected individuals lose interest in certain activities such as sex. Some have trouble making decisions and concentrating on something, be it in school or at work (Read, 2010, p. 1). In extreme cases, patients may start talking about death and thinking of committing suicide.

There are several types of Bipolar Disorder. The most common types are bipolar I and bipolar II. Bipolar I is classified as the most severe in all forms of depression. Bipolar II is the more common type and is similar to Bipolar I, but it is less severe. Diagnosing Bipolar in children is more difficult than it is in adults. I will use a little boy named Timmy as an example.

Happy five year old Timmy playing with other children his age until something happens, he changes suddenly into a violent, raging little wild boy. His fits are brushed off as temper tantrums until they become more often and serve in nature such as, hurting himself or another child. I have witnessed Timmy banding his head against the wall till it bleeds.

This comes and goes leaving a happy little boy running and playing normally. At the age of 15 Timmy is diagnosed with bipolar I. More studies need to be done on the disorder in the infancy stage. Temper tantrums may be the beginning stage, but in fact he is dealing with bouts of depression and mood swings, coupled with bouts of aggressive behavior.

There are no cures for bipolar disorders, but treatments for living with this disease are available. Lithium has offered much success alongside counseling and therapy. Learning how to live with this disease will help you live a happier and productive life. The best help is having a good support system in place. Family and friends can help you cope with and understand this condition.

Keeping a record of what times, the places and maybe who contributes to your spiral down the road of depression may also e of great help in such occurrences (NIMH 2010, p. 1). However, this disorder may be undiagnosed for many years and labeled as normal behavior especially at early ages. Under the age of six it is not understood and most often it is dismissed.

Reference List

Smith, M and Segal, J. (2011). Understanding bipolar disorder. Web.

NIMH. (2010). Bipolar disorder. Web.

Read, K. (2010). Warning signs of bipolar disorder. Web.

Background

Bipolar disorder is a prevalent psychiatric disease characterized by range of elevated mood disorders often referred as mania. Depression commonly accompanies these mood disorders depending on the severity of the disorder. Bipolar spectrum, that is, the range of this disorder lies within three broad categories: bipolar II, cyclothymia, and bipolar I. this spectrum depends mainly on nature and asperity of the mood episodes that one goes through.

This disorder becomes full blown in the late adolescence or in some few cases, in early adulthood. Diagnosis relies on one’s experiences together with observable behaviors. Some of the abnormal episodes include distress, disruption, and increased rate of suicide among others. Causes of bipolar disorder include genetic factors and environmental factors, even though in some cases it is associated with positive accomplishments, creativity, and goal nisus.

Problems associated with this disorder include stigma, stereotypes, and preconception against victims of this disorder. Unfortunately, bipolar disorder in most cases is misdiagnosed as schizophrenia and this delays its appropriate management. The prevalence of bipolar disorder stands at 5 million people in America alone.

This implies that, in every 45 adults, one of them has bipolar disorder. It is difficult to diagnose this disorder because there are no specimen tests with diagnosis relying mainly on observation, and this elevates the probability of misdiagnosis as aforementioned.

There are different ways of managing this disorder including mood stabilizers among other psychiatric medications. Practices like psychotherapy find wide application especially in cases where individuals show improved stability in recovery. This paper deals with the different ways of managing bipolar disorder from treatment to any other measure employed towards the management of this disorder.

Therapeutic Interventions

Antidepressants

Bupropion. This is one of the most efficacious antidepressants and it acts by suppressing neuronal reuptake of nor-epinephrine or noradrenalin and dopamine.¹ Research indicates that, bupropion significantly reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety within the first weeks of its administration.

Apart from the short-term positive results, bupropion has long-term effects and this explains in part why the US opinion leaders have rated this drug highly in terms of bipolar management.² Even though this drug may precipitate mania, it is one of the best drugs of treating bipolar disorder and depression.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). As the name suggests, SSRIs promotes serotonin neurotransmission by suppressing neuronal 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) reuptake.³ This inhibition leads to reduced depression and increases chances of sleep. SSRIs are widely used in developed countries albeit there is limited study on their efficacy. The shortcomings of these drugs include intolerance, development of mixed states and patient’s noncompliance.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA). These drugs have short-term efficacy with the combination of lithium. TCA functions to reduce depression even though research work indicates that these drugs increase the probability of mania precipitation.¹ Nevertheless, TCA offers the best option in treating patients with ‘drug resistance’ symptoms.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). These drugs act to inhibit the work of enzyme monoamine oxidase and this reduces levels of depression and bipolar disorder. Research indicates that, MAOIs are the best drugs in treating anergic depression, which is common among bipolar disorder patients.³

However, these drugs have inauspicious effects and dietary restrictions and this provides challenge to the administration of the same. Nevertheless, in combination of lithium, MAOIs function well and the dietary interactions are significantly reduced hence its common application in fourth–line treatments.¹

Mood Stabilizers

Mood stabilizers are compounds that will work to reduce anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder without major side effects. These are prophylactic agents, which are effective in all phases of sickness even though some substances that are effective at particular phases of sickness may fall under this category.

Lithium. Lithium is one of the most effective prophylactic agents whether used alone or in combination of antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It functions well in the long term taking over six weeks to yield antidepressant results.¹ Studies have strongly linked lithium with reduced suicide incidences and this property adds to its efficacy in treating bipolar disorder. However, just like any other compound, lithium has shortcomings including increased regress to mania and depression.

Carbamazepine. Even though there are limited studies of carbamazepine, the few existing one shows that this compound has antidepressant effect.⁴ Unlike lithium, carbamazepine does not lead to relapse to mania and depression. However, the efficacy of this drug is modest at best. In combination with lithium, however, it works to treat acute bipolar syndrome.²

Valproate Semisodium (Divalproex Sodium). This is valproic acid and exists as a sodium salt, as an amide or as semi sodium made by mixture of sodium valproate and valproic acid.⁵ It functions through regulating γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission. Its mood stabilizing effects results from its association with excitatory membranes. This is one of the commonly used mood stabilizers given that it has fewer side effects compared to the other mood stabilizers.

Lamotrigine. This mood stabilizer came into scene after it was found out that it would stabilize mood in epileptic victims. This then extended to bipolar disorder where this drug offers antidepressant effects.¹ Lamotrigine works in the short-term and has high efficacy due to its prophylactic characteristics. However, in some cases, individuals may develop serious skin rash with continued use of this drug.¹

Gabapentin. This is newly modeled anticonvulsant compound based on GABA.¹ Even though there is little research to determine its efficacy through placebo-controlled experiments, earlier studies indicates that, it can be used as adjuvant with other depressants like tricyclic antidepressants.¹

Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are gaining popularity especially after research indicated that combination of amitriptyline, which is an antidepressant and perphenazine, which is antipsychotic, showed high efficacy in treating bipolar disorder. ⁶ This combination had higher efficacy than any other drug used alone.

However, these combined drugs expose bipolar patients to high chances of tardive dyskinesia and sedation among other effects like obesity.¹ Most other antipsychotics and antidepressants can be used as add ups to mood stabilizers to manage bipolar disorder.⁶

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

There has been wide application of ECT in treating both bipolar and unipolar disorders but there is no enough research on the efficacy and the dosage of the same.¹ However, there is evidence that ECT reduces the effects of bipolar disorder.

Psychological Interventions

Given the fact that, bipolar disorder may result from both life experiences and environmental factors, it is important to note that, these same factors contribute largely to the recovery of a patient.⁷ For instance, an individual may have high expectations in say examination, which may interfere with sleep/wake cycle due to serotonin imbalance.

These experiences increase mania relapses and may lead to depression. Therefore, social support is necessary in managing bipolar disorder. Studies indicate that victims of bipolar disorder are likely to recover quickly under the care of family members or psychologists.⁷ Home-based treatments establish coherent daily routines and caretaking that enhances the chances of quick recovery.

Psycho Education

Psycho education offers information on bipolar disorder and arms patient with adequate information on how to cope with the illness and manage it successfully.⁸ Family members also know how to handle a bipolar disorder patient and this process results to effective management of the same.

The information comes inform of video tapes, workbooks, or drafts that help to develop personal relapse prevention strategy.⁷ Studies strongly link psycho education to improved recovery processes as it changes patient’s attitude and he or she complies with medication regiments, thus resulting to improved recovery.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

The framework of cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on alleviating psychological problems that lead to mania and depression.⁷ Its main purpose is to address cognitive, behavioral and changes that lead to depression or relapse to mania. This strategy helps an individual to halt any further progress of the disorder as medication takes effect.

Through cognitive-behavioral therapies, an individual becomes aware of bipolar disorder symptoms and it becomes easy to deal with the symptoms as they arise. It also arms individual with the necessary techniques to face and handle stress-causing situations like strained relationships and financial stresses among other issues that lead to stress and depression.⁷

Family-Focused Therapy

This form of therapy entails psycho education, problem-solving acquirements, and communication skills that help the family to handle bipolar disorder effectively. It helps families to come up with structures that checks mania relapses together with compliance to medical regiments.⁸

This prepares family members to anticipate future relapses, creates awareness on how to reduce incidences that lead to relapses, and establishes a strong relationship between patient and the family, a factor that leads to reduced relapses.⁷ Fundamentally, family-focused therapies act as adjuvant to medication. Moreover, home-based care offers a better recovery option compared to hospitalization.

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy

Under the contexts of “unstable or disrupted daily routines lead to circadian instability and affective episodes in vulnerable individuals”, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy came to being.⁹ This therapy seeks to rectify noncompliance to medication, stressful life occurrences, and social rhythm disruptions.⁷

Through the combination of these three rectifying methods, an individual stands high chances of mania recovery together with reduced chances of relapse. To counter stressful incidences, patients are required to maintain veritable sleep/wake cycles to maintain serotonin levels hence reduced chances of relapse.⁹

They are also advised to engage in practices that lead to social stimulation that would result to mood stabilization. This therapy is more of counseling starting with pinpointing the cardinal interpersonal problem; setting targets to counter the identified problem; laying down plans to accomplish the set targets, and finally developing management strategies that would effect the laid down plans.⁷

Personal Developments

Despite the fact that bipolar disorder management relies on medication and counseling, there is important role that an individual can play to ensure quick recovery and relapse prevention. A deep-set free will to overcome this disorder goes way beyond medication in the recovery process.

Individuals should have hope; that, all is going to be well.⁷ This entails a strong conviction that one can cope and overcome his or her condition. Persistence and patience plays a major role towards recovery. Patients ought to understand that the way to recovery is long and there are no cutoffs. Patients need to develop self-discipline coupled with self-advocacy and this combination will enable someone to live a full life void of worry and anxiety; a factor that reduces relapses with a great margin.⁷

Patients also ought to learn more about this disorder and this helps to acquire better management skills. It is important to note that self-efforts towards recovery will work in concert with all other strategies to ensure quick and effective recovery together with relapse prevention.⁷

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder may be a devastating condition to not only patients, but also family members. Given its complex nature and limited research on the subject, this disorder remains a big challenge to professionals that are involved in the management of the same. However, there have been tremendous efforts to manage this disorder through medication, psychotherapy, and personal developments among other strategies.

There is assortment of drugs used in managing bipolar disorder with some working as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics to reduce the effects of this disorder. On the other hand, psychotherapy entails psycho education among other varieties of therapies, which act as adjuvant to medications. Psychotherapy mostly entails practices that would result to reduced relapses together with preventing progress of mania and depression alike.

It is unfortunate that people with this disorder stand high chances of divorce and social isolation among other factors that lead to disruption of normal life. Nevertheless, with proper medication and the right attitude, individuals can manage to live relatively normal lives. There is hope.

End Notes

1. Gin, Malhi, Philip, Mitchell, and Shahzad, Salim. “Bipolar Depression Management Options.” 2003. 17 (3); 9-25
2. Haykal Roef, and Akiskal Harnt. “Bupropion as a Promising Approach to Rapid Cycling Bipolar 2 patients.” 1990. 51:450-5
3. Montgomery, Scott. “Efficacy in Long-Term Treatment of Depression,” 1996. J Clin Psychiatry; 57: 24-30
4. Ballenger, John, and Post, Roxanne. “Carbamazepine in Manic-Depressive Illness: A New Treatment.” 1980. Am J Psychiatry, 137: 782-90
5. Calabrese, Jael, Markovitz, Potz, and Kimmel, Susan. “Spectrum of Efficacy Of Valproate in 78 Rapid-Cycling Bipolar Patients.” 1992. J Clin Psychopharmacology, 12: 538-68
6. Parker, George, and Malhi, Ghal. “Are Atypical Antipsychotic Drugs Also Atypical Antidepressants?” 2001. Aust N Z J Psychiatry, 35 (5): 631-8
7. Steinkuller, Andrea, and Rheineck, Jane. “A Review of Evidence-Based Therapeutic Interventions for Bipolar Disorder. 2009. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 31 (4): 338-50
8. Morris, Col, Miklowitz, Dowtz, and Waxmonsky, Jared. “Family-Focused Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in Adults and Youth.” 2009. Journal of Clinical Psychology. 63, 433-45
9. Zaretsky, Aely, Rizvi, Suel, and Parikh, Shik. “How Well Do Psychosocial Interventions Work In Bipolar Disorder?” 2007. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. 52, 14-21

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a medical condition that affects an estimated two million people in the US. It affects both women and men in equal measure. The disorder is associated with many causes some of which are genetic while others result from other factors. However, the exact cause of the disorder has not yet been established.

In its initial stages, the condition has signs and symptoms that are easily identified. It is advisable for individuals to seek medical attention before the mild stages of the disease develop into full-blown bipolar disorder. There are various medications that have been approved as viable treatments for the condition.

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is defined as a mood disorder where individuals suffering from the disorder show alternate moments of mania and depression. The manic moments are characterized by moods that are better than normal ones. The moods are mild but they may sometimes be extreme to the extent that they interfere with normal life.

It may take hours, weeks or months for the manic moments to disappear after which depression returns (Definition of Bipolar disorder 5). Bipolar disorder is also referred to as manic-depressive disorder. When individuals experience depression, they have feelings of sadness and hopelessness followed by loss of interest in activities they derive pleasure from.

The mood shift to the other direction is characterized by feelings of euphoria and a lot of energy. In some rare instances, symptoms of both mania and depression manifest themselves simultaneously in individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder.

Despite the fact that the disorder causes disruption and often takes long to recover from, individuals can maintain their moods by adhering to certain treatment procedures. Mostly, the disorder is controlled through psychotherapy or psychological counseling and taking prescribed medicines (Treatment for Bipolar Disorder 6).

The cause of bipolar disorder has not been completely established, but it is a common problem in families. Depressive or manic disorders may be manifest for the first time at teenage or early adulthood. The symptoms are usually subtle and confounding. Individuals who suffer from the disorder are usually ignored or misdiagnosed hence compelling them to undergo unjustified suffering. On the other hand, those who receive the right treatment and assistance lead normal and fulfilling lives.

Types of Bipolar Disorders

There are different subtypes of bipolar disorders with each disorder exhibiting its unique pattern of initial symptoms. The different subtypes include the following.

Bipolar I Disorder

The mood fluctuations associated with this type of bipolar disorder lead to significant hardships when performing normal jobs or interference with relationships. The manic periods of this subtype can be extreme to the extent that they lead to harmful outcomes.

Bipolar II Disorder

This subtype of bipolar disorder is not as severe as bipolar I. Individuals who suffer from this type may experience elevation in their moods, a sense of irritation and changes in the way they function, but generally their daily life routines are not affected in any way. Instead of mania showing itself full-blown, individuals experience hypomania which is not as severe as mania. Moments of depression in this bipolar disorder usually take a longer period of time than in bipolar I.

Cyclothymic Disorder

This subtype of bipolar disorder which is also referred to as cyclothymia is mild in nature. With this type of disorder, the moments of depression and hypomania may be disruptive. However, the high and low instances are less severe than the ones experienced in bipolar I and bipolar II.

Myths and Facts about Bipolar Disorder

There are different myths and facts related to bipolar disorder. The first myth associated with the disorder is that individuals who suffer from the condition do not recover or live normal lives. The fact regarding this myth is that many individuals who suffer from the condition succeed in their careers, lead fulfilling family lives and have successful relationships.

To live with the condition is a challenging situation. But in the presence of the right treatment, healthy skills to cope with the condition and appropriate support systems, individuals live and manage bipolar disorder well.

The second myth surrounding bipolar disorder is that individuals who suffer from the condition are always either in depression or in a manic situation. The fact is that moments of depression among individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder are common than moments of mania. It is also possible for manic to be mild such that it is not recognized. Individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder can also stay with the conditions for long periods without portraying any symptoms (Bipolar Disorder 4).

The third myth related to bipolar disorder is that the only thing that is affected by the disorder is the mood. The fact is that the condition also affects other aspects in the lives of individuals who suffer from the condition. For instance, the condition is linked with anxiety, health problems like heart diseases, diabetes and issues that touch on blood pressure.

The fourth myth related to bipolar disorder is that the only remedy for the condition is medication. The fact is that medication forms the basis of attempts to treat bipolar disorder but this does not mean that there are no other methods that are used to treat the disorder.

Self-help strategies and therapy are methods that play a crucial role in dealing with bipolar disorder. Individuals who detect symptoms of bipolar disorder can control the situation through regular exercises, eating well, sleeping enough, checking their moods regularly and staying close to people who can support them. They can also ensure that they avoid anything that causes them stress.

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder appears differently in different individuals. The symptoms of the condition vary in frequency, severity and their pattern. Some individuals experience frequent moments of depression or mania, while others have equal alternations between depression and mania.

Some individuals experience disruption of their moods frequently while others do not experience as many mood disruptions throughout their lives. Bipolar disorder is characterized by four different types of mood episodes which include depression, hypomania, mania and mixed episodes.

Signs and Symptoms of Mania

During the manic stage of bipolar disorder, individuals experience increase in their energy, euphoria and a sense of creativity. They are usually very talkative, fail to get sleep and exhibit signs of hyperactivity. They also have feelings of being in possession of great power or headed for great things.

But while individuals who experience mania feel nice at first, they soon become uncontrollable. They often behave in a reckless manner during this phase, engaging in unbecoming behavior such as irresponsible sexual activities, gambling away financial resources, or investing foolishly.

In addition, they are easily angered, become aggressive and irritable which causes them to pick fights with individuals who do not show willingness to cooperate with them. They lay blames on other people once their behavior is questioned. Some even suffer from delusions and begin to respond to imaginary voices (Bipolar Disorder 6)

Symptoms of Hypomania

Hypomania is usually not as severe as mania. Individuals who experience hypomania feel energetic, euphoric and highly productive, but have the capacity to continue with their normal daily activities without losing touch with reality. Some people may look at hypo manic individuals as people who exhibit abnormally good moods.

However, the condition leads to wrong decisions which are detrimental to careers, relationships and reputation of individuals. In addition, the condition grows to complete mania or serious depressive disorder afterwards. Individuals who suffer from hypomania show the following signs and symptoms

The first sign of hypomania is that individuals who suffer from the condition are characterized by rapid talk that other people find difficult to cope with. The second symptom of the condition is that individuals engage in reckless actions with little regard of the consequences.

The third symptom is that victims of hypomania are easily distracted and it is difficult for them to concentrate in what they do. The fourth symptom of hypomania is that the individuals sleep for few hours and feel abnormally energetic. The fifth symptom of the condition is that individuals who suffer from hypomania exhibit impaired judgment. The sixth symptom of the condition is that the individuals have unrealistic beliefs concerning their powers and capabilities.

Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Depression

Bipolar and regular forms of depression were not in the past considered as different conditions. However, research continuously highlights major differences between the two conditions with emphasis on the treatments recommended to deal with the conditions.

Majority of individuals who suffer from bipolar depression do not get help from the use of antidepressants. Antidepressants are considered risky since they have the potential to make the condition worse. They trigger hypomania or mania, leads to mood swings, or interferes with other drugs that stabilize mood.

Although the two share several similarities, there are certain symptoms that appear more in individuals who suffer from bipolar depression than those with regular depression. For instance, bipolar depression often involves guilt, irritability, random mood changes and restlessness.

Individuals who suffer from the condition are also slow in movement and speech, sleep for many hours and add weight regularly. In addition, their chances of losing touch with reality are high and interference in their works and functioning at the societal level. Some of the common symptoms associated with bipolar depression include lack of pleasure, irritability, changes in weight or appetite, energy loss, hopelessness, memory and concentration challenges, suicidal thoughts and problems in sleeping (Castle 81).

Signs and Symptoms of Mixed Episode

The mixed episode is a combination of symptoms of depression and hypomania or mania. The common symptoms of this disorder include irritability, insomnia, anxiety, racing thoughts and depression that has elements of agitation. This scenario where individuals experience moments of high energy but are lower in moods is a dangerous one since it is characterized by high suicidal thoughts.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

The causes of bipolar disorder are not yet known. Research shows that certain individuals genetically run high risks of suffering from the condition. Yet not all individuals who have inherited susceptibility actually develop the condition. This implies that there are other causes of the illness apart from genes.

Neurochemical, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a crucial role that initiates and enables bipolar disorder to progress. The prevailing thoughts on the cause of bipolar disorder are that it is a biological disorder that affects specific brain sections and is caused by inappropriate functioning of neurotransmitters.

The external psychological and environmental factors that aid bipolar disorder development are known as triggers. They can cause new depression and mania episodes or worsen already existing ones. However, most episodes of bipolar disorder do not require an obvious trigger. Although there is no known cause of bipolar disorder, the following clues are believed to be causes of bipolar disorder by researchers.

Genetic Causes

Researchers have found out that bipolar disorder is mostly familial. This means that the condition runs in families. Almost half of individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder come from families with members who exhibit mood disorders like depression. Individuals who have one parent who suffers from bipolar disorder have between 15 and 25 percent likelihood of suffering from the same condition while the risk of non-identical twins suffering from the condition is 25 percent.

The risk of suffering from bipolar disorder for individuals who have identical twins with bipolar disorder in their families is even higher. Researchers who carry out studies on adopted children have been able to gather more information about the environmental versus genetic and events in normal lives that cause bipolar disorder.

Neurochemical Causes

Bipolar disorder is essentially a biological disorder which affects specific brain sections as a result of particular neurotransmitters functioning inappropriately. It may also be as a result of dysfunction of chemical messengers found in the brain. Some of the neurotransmitters involved with the chemicals include serotonin and many others. The condition may remain dormant until it is triggered by external factors.

Environmental Causes

There are certain environmental factors that are not fully understood that are associated with changes in the age that bipolar disorder starts. Occurrence of the disorder at early ages is associated with issues such as misdiagnosis and puts young people at the risk of contracting the illness. In addition, bipolar disorder may be caused by life events that lead to mood episodes. Despite the fact that substance abuse does not primarily cause bipolar disorder, it interferes with the process of recovery.

Medication-triggered Mania

Certain medications like antidepressants have the capacity to stir manic episodes among individuals who are susceptible to bipolar disorder. This calls for exhaustive treatment for depressive disorders among individuals who once experienced manic disorders.

Due to the fact that depressive episodes have the potential of turning into manic ones after antidepressant medications, it is usually advisable to take antimanic drugs to limit the chances of occurrence of manic episodes. Antimanic drugs develop a partial ceiling that makes it difficult for mania induced by antidepressants to develop. There are other medications that are associated with high feelings that are similar to mania.

For example, appetite suppressants may cause an increase in energy levels, lack of sleep and cause individuals to talk a lot. Individuals return to normalcy once they stop the medications. Some of the substances that are associated with manic-like episodes include excessive caffeine, overdoses of certain drugs obtained over the counter and use of illegal drugs like cocaine and designer drugs (Castle 82).

Stress

Bipolar disorder can be caused by stressful experiences for individuals whose genetic composition makes them vulnerable to the illness. Stressful events that involve spontaneous or drastic changes either bad or good may trigger bipolar disorder. Some of the events include marriage, job loss, loss of family members or change of location. Individuals who are vulnerable to bipolar disorder should avoid stressful events, stimulants like alcohol and inadequate sleep because these factors trigger bipolar disorder.

Treatment and Medication of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition that can be treated contrary to what some individuals believe that the condition cannot be treated. The following are some of the medications available for treating bipolar disorder.
Mood Stabilizing Medications

Mood stabilizing medication is usually the first option to treat bipolar disorder. Individuals who suffer from the condition are exposed to the use of mood stabilizers for several years. Most of the medications fall under the category of anticonvulsants with an exception of lithium. Ideally, anticonvulsants are used in the treatment of seizures but control of moods is their other function. There are several mood stabilizing medications used in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

The first mood stabilizer used in treatment of bipolar disorder is lithium which is also referred to as lithobid or eskalith. It was the first medication for mood-stabilizing that FDA approved for use in treatment of mania. It is an effective medication for dealing with mania and prevention of other depressive complications.

The second mood stabilizer used in treatment of bipolar disorder is valproic acid which is used in place of lithium. Just like lithium, it is also an effective method of treating the disorder. In recent years, lamotrigine which is an anticonvulsant has been introduced as a mood stabilizer for treating bipolar disorder.

Atypical Antipsychotic Medications

This is another common medication for bipolar disorder. The medication is combined with other forms of medication. There are atypical and conventional antipsychotics used in treatment of bipolar disorder. The first antipsychotic medication used in treatment of bipolar disorder is Olanzapine which is administered together with antidepressant medication.

It helps in reducing the effects of serious mania. The second antipsychotic used in the treatment of bipolar disorder is Aripiprazole which treats mixed episode of manic disorders. The third antipsychotic used in the treatment of bipolar disorder is Quetiapine. This eliminates the symptoms associated with sudden and severe manic instances (Leay 130).

Antidepressant Medications

Antidepressants are occasionally used in the treatment of depression as a form of bipolar disorder. The medications are combined with mood-stabilizers. It is advisable to combine them with mood stabilizers because using them alone may cause individuals to switch into hypomania or mania.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder is a medical condition that affects both young people and adults. There are different subtypes of bipolar disorder which exhibit different characteristics. Some are characterized by extreme cases of mania such that the normal functioning of individuals is affected while other types are mild and do not affect the normal functioning of individuals.

Bipolar disorder is a condition that is surrounded by myths but for every myth surrounding the condition, there are proven facts. Despite the fact that some individuals argue that the condition cannot be treated and that those who suffer from it cannot functionally normally, it has been proven that bipolar disorder is treatable. Individuals who suffer from the condition can also lead normal lives.

Works Cited

Bipolar Disorder. 2012. Web.

Castle, Lana. Bipolar Disorder Demystified:Mastering the Tightrope of Manic Depression. New York: Da Capo Press, 2003.

Definition of Bipolar disorder 2011. Web.

Leay, Robert. Psychological Treatment of Bipolar Disorder. New York: Guilford Press, 2005.

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder. n.d. Web.