Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects approximately 5.7 million adults in the United States. People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings, ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. If left untreated, this condition can have devastating effects on both the patient’s physical and mental health. To help those living with bipolar disorder better understand this condition, let’s take a closer look at its causes, treatments, and symptoms.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
The exact causes of bipolar disorder remain unknown; however, some experts believe that genetics may play a role in its development. Studies suggest that people who have relatives with bipolar disorder are more likely to develop it than those without any family history of the condition. Other possible factors include environmental influences such as stress, trauma or substance abuse, or even biological factors such as hormones or brain chemistry imbalances.
Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is typically treated through a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Commonly prescribed medications include antipsychotics, mood stabilizers and antidepressants, depending on the severity of the patient’s symptoms. Psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy can also be beneficial in helping patients manage their symptoms and cope with stressors that may trigger episodes of depression or mania.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
The most common symptom of bipolar disorder is extreme mood swings—from deep depression to exaggerated euphoria—that can last anywhere from days to months at a time. Other symptoms associated with this condition may include changes in sleep patterns (too little or too much), loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, reckless behavior (such as spending sprees or unsafe sex) and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
Bipolar disorder is an often misunderstood mental health condition that affects millions of adults in the United States alone. While its exact cause remains unknown, there are treatments available that can help manage its symptoms and prevent further episodes from occurring in the future. It is important for those experiencing any symptoms associated with this condition to seek professional help from a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist so they can receive proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to their individual needs. With proper care and support from loved ones, those living with bipolar disorder can lead healthy lives free from the debilitating effects of this illness.
