Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depressive disorder, is characterized by an alternating pattern of emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). The intensity of signs and symptoms can vary from mild to severe. The exact cause is unknown, but it occurs more often in relatives of people with the disorder.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are three commonly recognized types of bipolar disorder:

• Type 1 is characterized by at least one manic episode and periods of major depression.
• Type 2 is characterized by periods of high energy levels and impulsiveness that are not as extreme as mania (called hypomania). These periods alternate with episodes of depression.
• Cyclothymia is a mild form of bipolar disorder, involves less severe mood swings. People with this form alternate between hypomania and mild depression.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

Typically with bipolar disorder, there is no clear cause for the manic or depressive episodes. The following may trigger an episode in people with bipolar disorder:

• Periods of sleeplessness or stress
• Recreational drug use and certain medications
• A significant life change such as childbirth, death, or another significant loss

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Depressive Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

• Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt, anger, or isolation
• Lack of motivation
• Loss of interest in activities that were formerly enjoyable
• Lack of interest in sexual activity
• Social anxiety
• Loneliness or isolation
• Disturbances in sleep or appetite
• Difficulty concentrating

Manic Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

• Increase in energy and decrease in the need to sleep
• Short attention span, being easily distracted
• Racing thoughts
• Increased sex drive
• Aggressive behavior and intolerance
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Poor judgement and impulsive behavior

Bipolar Treatment

• Acute treatment-Suppresses current symptoms and continues until remission, which occurs
• when the symptoms are diminished for a period of time.
• Continuation treatment-Prevents a return of symptoms from the same episode.
• Maintenance treatment-Prevents a recurrence of symptoms.

Bipolar and Co-Occurring Disorders

Bipolar disorder is often associated with co-occurring disorders such as substance abuse and addiction. For many individuals, the abuse of alcohol or other drugs begins as a means of self-medicating their manic or depressive symptoms. This substance abuse exacerbates the symptoms of mania and depression, which can lead to an ever-worsening cycle of drug abuse and self- intrusive behaviors.