Bipolar Disorder
General description
Bipolar disorder is a rare illness, only one in a hundred is affected. Onset can occur at any time during teens or subsequently. As with schizophrenia the cause is as yet unknown, but evidence so far points to a genetic link. Brain injury, stress or substance misuse may cause or contribute to a genetic predisposition.
The main effects of bipolar disorder differ according to the phase. During the depressive phase, patients will often be unable to carry out normal daily tasks. The depressive feelings will continue for longer than normal. During the manic phase, delusions may occur and the patient may lose the ability to make rational judgements. While everyone has mood swings, they are more pronounced and sustained in bipolar disorder.
Common symptoms
- Feelings of unhappiness
- Apathy
- Tiredness and agitation
- Low self esteem
- Thoughts of suicide
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Constipation
- Loss of sex drive
- Overly or inappropriately happy or excited
- Full of energy
- Unable or unwilling to sleep
- Delusions
Common treatments
- Psychotherapy
- Anti-depressants
- Counselling
- Anti-psychotic drugs
- Self help techniques
- Lithium therapy
General Advice
Learn to recognise symptoms and seek help early.