Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a long-term mental illness in which a person has periods of very high mood and energy (mania) and periods of depression, with normal times in between. During mania people may sleep little, talk fast, spend money or take dangerous risks. It usually begins in young adulthood. With long-term treatment, most people can control their mood swings.
Symptoms
- Mania: feeling very happy, excited or irritable for days
- Mania: needing very little sleep, fast speech and racing thoughts
- Mania: unrealistic plans, overspending or risky behaviour
- Depression: sadness, loss of interest, tiredness and hopelessness
- Depression: thoughts of death or suicide
- In severe episodes, false beliefs or hearing voices
Causes
- Genes: it often runs in families
- Changes in brain chemistry
- Episodes can be triggered by stress, lack of sleep or childbirth
- Alcohol and drug use can trigger episodes
- Some antidepressants given alone can trigger mania
Prevention
- Take mood-stabilising medicine every day, even when you feel well
- Keep regular sleep; losing sleep is a common trigger
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Learn your early warning signs and tell your family
- Keep regular follow-up visits with your doctor
Treatment
- Mood-stabilising medicine prescribed and monitored by a doctor; some need regular blood tests
- Other medicines for mania or depression as decided by the doctor
- Talking therapy and family education
- A regular daily routine for sleep, meals and activity
- Do not start, stop or change these medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Why do I need medicine when I feel well?
Mood stabilisers prevent new episodes. Many people stop them when they feel well and then become ill again. Talk to your doctor before making any change.
Is bipolar disorder the same as normal mood changes?
No. Everyone has good and bad days, but in bipolar disorder the highs and lows are extreme, last days or weeks and seriously affect life and relationships.