Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder? 

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes significant changes in mood, energy, thinking, and behavior. These changes go beyond everyday mood swings and last for days or weeks, sometimes longer. People may experience periods of depression, when they feel very sad or lose interest in things they usually enjoy. They also experience periods of feeling unusually energized, excited, or irritable, called mania or hypomania. During these periods, they may sleep much less without feeling tired, talk more than usual, have racing thoughts, or make impulsive decisions.

Mania is severe enough to cause major problems in daily life and may require hospital care. Sometimes, people experiencing mania lose touch with reality, such as believing things that are not true. Hypomania is less severe and does not cause the same level of disruption, but it is still a clear change from how someone usually feels and acts that others can notice. Bipolar disorder is often a lifelong condition, but treatment can help people manage symptoms and live well.

There are two main types are bipolar disorder. Bipolar I (bipolar 1), which involves at least one episode of mania and may also include depression, and bipolar II (bipolar 2), which involves episodes of hypomania and depression, but no episodes of mania.

How common is bipolar disorder?

About 2% of people around the world have bipolar disorder. An additional 2% experience some bipolar symptoms but do not meet the full criteria for a diagnosis based on DSM-5 criteria.

Is bipolar disorder treatable? 

Bipolar disorder is generally considered a lifelong condition with a progressive course, and it can be well-managed with medications and behavioral treatment. Mood episodes are first treated with medications. Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) is an evidence-based behavioral treatment for bipolar disorder that focuses on managing stressful life events and stabilizing circadian rhythms and daily routines which are commonly disrupted in bipolar disorder. 

Where can I find the most up-to-date information on bipolar disorder?

The International Bipolar Foundation has a wealth of resources and educational videos for individuals with bipolar disorder and their support systems. Evidence-based resources like this workbook are available to help better understand bipolar disorder and develop strategies for maintaining regular routines and recognizing early signs of mood episodes.  

The bottom line on bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorders is a lifelong but manageable condition. Treatment is most effective when medication is combined with certain lifestyle habits and behavioral strategies, such as maintaining regular sleep and daily routines. With the proper care, many people experience long periods of mood stability.

Author: Ali Klevens

Edited by: Alyssa Herman