Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

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Symptoms of BiPolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, commonly referred to manic depression, severely affects more than 5.7 million Americans every year. Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition in which those who suffer experience abnormal elevated and depressed moods for a significant period of time that interferes with normal day to day functions.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder are irritability, excitability, hyperactivity, sadness, withdrawal, despair, reckless behavior, anger, worry, and suicidal feelings.
(See the Depression and Mania Warning Signs on the Home Page for more information)

There are no age limits as to those that are affected by this mental disorder, but onsets of this disorder usually appear in the late teens and early 20s. While the exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, biochemical, genetic, and environmental surroundings are suspects of the disorder.

First, it is thought that an imbalance in brain chemical called neurotransmitters could be to blame for bipolar disorder. Neurotransmitters in the brain regulate our moods and if these transmitters are not properly in line, it affects our moods and could lead to bipolar disorder.

Second, genes are also a possible link to bipolar disorder. If a close relative, such as a mother suffers from the disease, then their children and grandchildren are at a higher risk of developing bipolar disorder.

Third, environmental factors could make bipolar disorder more common also. If someone experiences a death in the family or other traumatic stress, then that individual is more likely to develop bipolar disorder than someone who is not experiencing these events.

Still today, there is no true bipolar disorder test. The best way in determining bipolar disorder is through a series of exams and tests to rule out other disorders.

See Also Diagnosing BiPolar Disorder

• A Physical Exam may be conducted to check for vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure.
• Laboratory Tests may be conducted to check for blood count, thyroid tests, as well as other blood tests.
• A Psychological Evaluation will be conducted in which a self assessment and questionnaire may be completed. A psychologist may also ask the one being tested about their feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns.

Once these tests have been completed, a psychologist will evaluate the results by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel of Mental Disorders. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental illness that requires consistent treatment.

Treating bipolar disorder can involve several medications including oral drugs such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs. Another part of treatment is psychotherapy, including cognitive, family, and group theory. Frequent medical follow ups are necessary to ensure that medication and therapy are effective due to symptoms of bipolar disorder can reoccur frequently.