What is Bipolar Disorder? Doctor explains

Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a mental illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts can range from periods of intense highs (mania or hypomania) to extreme lows (depression). These mood episodes can last for days or weeks and significantly impact a person's ability to function in daily life.

Key aspects of bipolar disorder:
1. Mood Swings: The core feature is the experience of extreme mood episodes, including mania, hypomania, and depression.
2. Mania: A period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, accompanied by increased energy and activity.
3. Hypomania: A less severe form of mania, where mood elevation is not as intense and does not cause significant impairment.
4. Depression: A period of sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in activities.

Types of Bipolar Disorder:
Bipolar I disorder involves manic episodes that may include psychotic symptoms, while bipolar II disorder involves hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.

Symptoms:
Symptoms vary but can include changes in sleep, appetite, energy levels, concentration, and behavior.

Causes:
While the exact causes are unknown, it's believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Treatment:
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that is typically managed with medication (mood stabilizers, antidepressants, etc.) and therapy (psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, etc.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
00:53 - What is Bipolar Disorder
01:47 - Potential Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
04:00 - Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder
05:20 - Treatment

📌 Useful links and resources:

NHS UK information - https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/cond...

Mind UK information - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-s...

Mayo Clinic *USA - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-c...

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Date published: 28/01/2024. Next review date: 22/01/2027