Bipolar Disorder: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More (cont)

Bipolar disorder continues to remain a mystery to scientists regarding its exact origins. However, there are several causes that may increase the chances of an individual developing the condition:

Genetic factors: There are many ties linking bipolar disorder and genetic factors. Studies show that people with a parent or sibling that are diagnosed with the condition are 10% to 15% more likely to have bipolar disorder. This doesn’t necessarily mean that someone with a close family member with the condition will end up having bipolar disorder.

Environmental factors: Traumatic life events, extreme and continuous stress or physical illness can lead to developing bipolar disorder in some cases. These factors could end up triggering or worsening the symptoms of those that are at higher risk of developing the condition.

Brain chemistry and structure: The way the brain functions and is wired could increase the risk of bipolar disorder. Neurotransmitter pathways and irregularities can also lead to an increased risk of developing the disease.

Keep in mind that these factors are not definite causes of bipolar disorder, they may only increase the risk of developing the condition. Every experience with bipolar disorder is different and many factors play hand in hand in the development of the condition.

Bipolar Disorder Risk Factors

Bipolar disorder usually becomes more visible during late teens and early adulthood. There are some less common cases where it may emerge in childhood. The exact reason for this remains unknown, but researchers believe that there are some risk factors that play a role for developing this condition later in life.

Potential risk factors for developing bipolar disorder are:

Family History: A close family member diagnosed with the condition can increase the chances of an individual developing the conditions.

Substance misuse: Abusing drugs and alcohol can worsen the symptoms of bipolar disorder, with many using these substances during a manic or depressive episode.

Stressful life events: Experiencing extreme stress in life or trauma can lead to the development of the disorder.

Other health conditions: People with a diagnosed bipolar disorder may also be suffering from other health conditions such as seasonal depression, anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The presence of these conditions vary, and not everyone with bipolar disorder experiences them.

Although these factors are linked to bipolar disorder, they are not definite factors for causing the disease. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that is unique to each person’s experience. If you think you or your loved ones are at risk of having the condition, seeking professional guidance is the best option to manage symptoms and to get on the right treatment plan.

Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

The first step of getting diagnosed with bipolar disorder is to go through a psychiatric assessment and meet all the criteria for having experienced a manic or hypomanic episode in the past. If the individual experiences hypomanic episodes, they might also be evaluated deeper for depressive episodes and experiencing low moods.

Diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) , a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder needs:

- At least one manic episode that lasts for a minimum of 7 days.

- Symptoms that significantly affect daily life.

- Symptoms that are unrelated to other medical disorders or substance misuse.

- While not mandatory, a diagnosis becomes more clear if a person has experienced:

-Hospitalization during a manic episode.

- Psychosis

- At least one manic-depressive episode, referred to as mixed features.

- Experiencing other episodes such as hypomania and depressive episodes apart from the manic episodes.

Diagnosis of Bipolar II Disorder

A diagnosis of bipolar II disorder requires:

- At least one hypomanic episode that lasts a minimum of 4 days.

- At least one depressive episode lasting a minimum of 2 weeks.

- Symptoms that are unrelated to other medical disorders or substance misuse.

- Visible mood changes when experiencing a hypomania episode when compared to a depressive episode.

Diagnosis of Cyclothymia

A diagnosis of cyclothymia requires:

Alternating episodes of hypomania and depression for at least 2 or more years.

Symptoms appearing for at least half of the 2 year period.

Symptoms not being absent for more than 2 months at a time.

Symptoms that don’t meet the full criteria for being diagnosed as bipolar I or bipolar II.

Symptoms causing distress or impacting daily functioning

Symptoms that are unrelated to other medical disorders or substance misuse.

Diagnosing bipolar disorder involves going through an evaluation of all the symptoms that come with experiencing a manic, hypomanic and depressive episode. Understanding the differences of Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymia makes it easier for individuals to get on the right treatment plan to manage symptoms effectively.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Managing bipolar disorder symptoms effectively involves a period of trial and error of trying different treatment options and treatment combinations. Although none of the following treatments guarantee the total disappearance of symptoms, they may improve the quality of life to a certain degree. Here are some treatment options for bipolar disorder:

Medication

Most individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder use a combination of different medications to manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. It’s common to go through a period of trial and error until finding the right combination of medication that works for them.

Medications that may be recommended by healthcare providers include:

Mood stabilizers, like lithium (sold under the brand name Lithobid).

Antidepressant-antipsychotics, like fluoxetine-olanzapine (known as Symbyax).

Benzodiazepines, a type of short-term anti-anxiety medication.

Antipsychotics, such as olanzapine (marketed as Zyprexa).

It’s more common for individuals with bipolar disorder to seek help during a depressive episode rather than when they’re experiencing a manic or hypomanic episode. That’s why it’s important for healthcare specialists to go through a deep medical history assessment to accurately diagnose the condition.

Patients should:

Talk to their doctor about the potential side effects of the medication they are about to go on.

Discuss the benefits of the medication they’re about to go on.

Report any concerns they have when it comes to the side effects that the medication has.

Inform their doctor if they are on any other medication or are taking any supplements.

Take the prescribed medication consistently (it usually takes several weeks for some medication to show visible results)

If you or your loved one wants to discontinue medication for bipolar disorder, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. Stopping the medication without medical surveillance may trigger symptoms appearing again.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or better known as talk therapy, can play a big role in helping people with bipolar disorder. Different types of psychotherapy use different techniques to help individuals not only manage their symptoms, but also help with mood regulations, a more positive outlook on life, and changing negative behaviors. Some forms of psychotherapy for bipolar disorder include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT aims at treating depression, helps with insomnia and is known for its success in helping people with bipolar disorder. Combining CBT with other treatment methods may help tremendously in managing bipolar symptoms.

Psychoeducation: This type of talk therapy provides more knowledge to individuals around bipolar disorder. It also offers coping mechanisms on how to handle symptoms better.

Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy: This therapy’s main focus is to teach individuals on bettering their sleeping patterns, eating habits and overall daily routines. By maintaining a balanced routine, bipolar symptoms have a higher chance to subside in the long run.

By adding psychotherapy as part of a treatment plan for bipolar disorder, individuals may improve their chances of reducing symptoms associated with the condition.

Other Treatment Options

Some other treatment methods are also known to show promising results in improving and managing bipolar disorder:

Light therapy: Light therapy is primarily used for treating those affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD) . However, it has also been beneficial for people that suffer from SAD and bipolar disorder simultaneously.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): This is a brain stimulation therapy that is seen as a last resort treatment option for individuals that fail to respond well to other forms of treatment for bipolar disorder. ECT is usually performed in cases where the person is at high risk of suicide or experiencing catatonia, a state of unresponsiveness.

Considering these therapies may shed some light in improving symptoms of bipolar disorder when other treatment options are not showing effectiveness.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies for bipolar disorder are known to provide some relief. However, it is crucial to speak to a doctor before making them a part of your treatment plan as they can interfere with other medication. One of the most promising natural remedies of aiding people with bipolar disorder is:

Omega-3: Some research held in 2021 has found that omega-3 supplements have decreased the severity of symptoms in bipolar I disorder.

Keep in mind that before starting Omega-3 supplements, other supplements or herbal remedies it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first. This makes sure that the natural remedies don’t interfere with other treatments you’re on.

Lifestyle Changes

An important part of an effective treatment plan for bipolar disorder is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Practicing healthy habits in your daily routine can help manage symptoms. However, the effectiveness of these lifestyle adjustments varies from person to person. Here are some beneficial adjustments:

Balanced diet: Consuming a balanced diet consisting of whole grains, meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds can help maintain overall health. A balanced diet helps prevent deficiencies that can lead to worsened symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Exercising regularly: Engaging in at least 120 minutes of exercise a day has shown some benefits in managing bipolar symptoms.

Continuous therapy: Regularly attending therapy sessions has proven to be beneficial for people that live with bipolar disorder.

Managing weight: Managing a healthy weight can have a positive impact on wellbeing and might reduce some symptoms.

Although lifestyle changes might provide some benefits, researchers believe that it’s not sufficient without combining them with other forms of treatment.

Bipolar Disorder Prevention

Mood episodes cannot be prevented entirely and bipolar disorder is recognized as a lifelong condition. However, the positive side is that people with bipolar disorder can live a fulfilling life by sticking to the right treatment plan. Recognising the symptoms of bipolar disorder is important to intervene and seek help before symptoms worsen.

Building a Support Team

Managing bipolar disorder often involves building a support team that includes:

Your primary care physician

A therapist or counselor

A psychiatrist

Other specialists like sleep experts or alternative therapists

Support groups

Finding Effective Treatments

Effective treatment for bipolar disorder is not standard. Since every person experiences bipolar disorder differently, it usually takes some trial and error before an individual finds the right treatment plan for them. Finding the right treatment plan might take anywhere from a couple of months to several years. The reason behind this is because everyone reacts differently to the medication and therapy available. What may work for one person may not work for the other. This makes it important to always keep open communication with your care team to find the best treatment plan that works in your favor.

Conclusion

Living with bipolar disorder can come with its own challenges. It’s important to treat ourselves or people that suffer with the condition with kindness and support. Keep in mind that the condition isn’t a weakness or a personal failure. Also, remember that not responding well to a treatment plan is normal. Practicing patience and acceptance is the best method to make the journey more manageable.

In conclusion, the effective way to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder is through early diagnosis, having a support system and care team, exploring different treatment options and being patient. Although there is no known way to fully cure the disorder, there are plenty of steps that can help an individual live a more fulfilling life and increase overall wellbeing.

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