Bipolar disorder is a condition in which a person has periods of depression alternating with periods of mania or elevated mood. It is known as a manic-depressive mental disorder that causes constant changes in shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out normal tasks.
Depression and manic episodes
Depression is more than just a feeling of deep sadness; it is a mental health disorder characterised by a persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. Depression can lead to suicidal and drug abuse among other dangerous activities.
When it comes to bipolar, you may initially be diagnosed with clinical depression before having any future manic episodes. During a manic phase of bipolar disorder, you may feel thrilled and have lots of energy, ambitious plans and ideas, the polar opposite of depression. Other common signs include talking quickly and becoming too annoyed easily.
There are several treatment options for bipolar disorder that can make a big difference in the long run. These treatments aim to control the effects of an episode and help someone with bipolar disorder live life as regularly as possible. Like other treatments in other medical specialities, it using a combination of different treatment methods is sometimes the best way to manage bipolar disorder successfully.
The following treatment options are available:
Medication to prevent episodes of mania, hypomania and depression. These are known as mood stabilisers and are taken every day on a long-term basis.
Medication to treat the main symptoms of depression and mania when they occur Learning to recognise the triggers and signs of an episode of depression or mania Psychological treatment such as talking therapy, which can help you deal with depression, and provides advice about how to improve your relationships.
Lifestyle changes, such as doing regular exercise, planning activities you enjoy that give you a sense of achievement, as well as advice on improving your diet and getting more sleep. How is it diagnosed?
There is no single bipolar disorder test, so a bipolar disorder diagnosis is usually made on the basis of the symptoms meeting several criteria. A multidisciplinary assessment with input from a Dr Michelle Vlok-Barnard is necessary to rule out other conditions that could be causing the symptoms you are experiencing.