Bipolar disorder is a mental health illness which affects around 2% of the population in the United States. It is a brain disorder which causes severe, but frequent shifts in mood from manic to depressive. In many cases, it is misdiagnosed by laypersons as a separate, smaller problem such as depression rather than part of a larger problem. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder, and get a diagnosis from a licensed physician when symptoms appear.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Some symptoms typical of those who have bipolar disorder include:
- Feelings of extreme elation and deep depression at the same time
- Large variations in work quality and output
- Periods of great optimism followed or preceded by periods of great pessimism
- Overly happy (or sad) period
- Racing thoughts - jump from one thought to another very quickly
- Extreme irritability
- Lack of concentration
- Hopelessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Those who experience these symptoms need to contact a physician for proper diagnosis of their condition. Because there is no definitive test for bipolar disorder, the diagnosis process is very complicated, and requires the skill and experience of a licensed physician or mental health professional.
Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder
Because there are no blood tests or brain scans for diagnosing bipolar disorder, a doctor interviews a patient to diagnose the condition. A blood test or brain scan may be ordered to rule out other causes of bipolar-like symptoms. Other conditions which may cause some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder include drug abuse, stroke, or brain cancer.
During a typical interview to determine if a patient has bipolar disorder, the doctor will ask for the patient's family history of mental illness. It is thought that bipolar disorder may be a genetic condition. The doctor will also ask the patient to describe current symptoms.
After getting the patient's history, the doctor will ask a long series of questions designed to test a patient's level of concentration, mood, reasoning, memory, and ability to interact with others. The patient's appearance will also be noted. Some of the tests may require written answers or manipulation of physical objects.
The diagnosis of bipolar disorder is not a do-it-yourself job.
Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
The benefits of early diagnosis can be substantial. Around 15% of bipolar disorder patients attempt to commit suicide sometime during their lives. In addition, up to 60% of bipolar patients abuse drugs or alcohol at some point during their lives. Drug abuse can significantly hamper the treatment of bipolar disorder. It is best to catch bipolar disorder early before its severe symptoms contributes to drug abuse or worse.
There are many medications doctors can prescribe to treat bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is thought to be a chemical imbalance in the brain, which can be corrected with medications. Along with medications, psychotherapy with a psychologist or counselor also helps patients cope with the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, the right combination of medications and psychotherapy can allow many of those with the disease to live a normal life.
Note: This article is not professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed doctor or mental health professional to diagnose or treat any mental health condition.
References:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). "Bipolar Disorder."
Healthwise. "Bipolar Disorder."
