Bipolar Spectrum Disorder (BSD), formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to perform daily tasks. These shifts are more severe than typical mood swings experienced by most people. BSD can significantly impact an individual’s life and functioning. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum, bipolar disorder ranks sixth among the leading causes of disability worldwide. Recognition of the symptoms and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing BSD and improving the quality of life for those affected.

Bipolar disorder typically begins in young adulthood, ranging from late teens to mid-20s, onset can occur in childhood or as late as in a person’s 50s.

Both men and women are equally susceptible to developing bipolar disorder, and there is a genetic predisposition, with the disorder often running in families. Individuals with a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing it themselves.

What are the Core Symptoms of Bipolar Disorders?

Bipolar disorder encompasses both manic and depressive episodes, which alternate in a cyclical pattern, resulting in a diverse array of symptoms. Manic episodes are characterized by several features, including a decreased need for sleep, grandiose ideas, or racing thoughts. On the other hand, depressive episodes involve a loss of interest in typically enjoyable activities, along with thoughts of death or suicide. Below are further details about these two types of episodes:

Manic Episodes:

• Decreased need for sleep, feeling rested after only a few hours of sleep
• Grandiose or inflated self-esteem, with beliefs of possessing special powers or abilities
• Racing thoughts or rapid speech, jumping from one topic to another
• Increased energy levels, leading to heightened activity or restlessness
• Increased engagement in risky behaviors, such as reckless spending, impulsive decisions, or substance abuse
• Heightened irritability or agitation
• Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
• Excessive involvement in goal-directed activities or projects

Depressive Episodes:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities, including hobbies or social interactions
• Changes in appetite or weight, either significant weight loss or gain
• Disturbances in sleep patterns, either insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Fatigue or decreased energy levels, leading to feelings of lethargy or exhaustion
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts, or planning for suicide

It’s essential for individuals with bipolar disorder to receive appropriate treatment and support to manage these episodes effectively and maintain stability in their lives. Treatment often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and support from mental health professionals and loved ones.

Types of Bipolar Disorders?

Bipolar disorder encompasses a spectrum of conditions, with at least four distinct types:

1. Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by manic episodes that last at least seven days or by manic symptoms that are severe enough to require immediate hospital care. Depressive episodes typically occur as well, lasting at least two weeks. Individuals with Bipolar I may also experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of both mania and depression are present simultaneously.

2. Bipolar II Disorder: Marked by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are less severe than full-blown mania. Hypomanic episodes are characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity, but they do not cause significant impairment in functioning or require hospitalization.

3. Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves chronic fluctuations in mood that alternate between periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms. However, the symptoms do not meet the criteria for full-blown manic or depressive episodes.

4. Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS): This category is used when symptoms of bipolar disorder are present but do not fit the criteria for any of the specific subtypes listed above. It may include atypical presentations or cases where symptoms do not fully meet diagnostic criteria.

The distinction between these types of bipolar disorder is based on the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as the specific pattern of mood episodes experienced by individuals. Bipolar I disorder is generally considered the most severe form due to the presence of full-blown manic episodes, which can lead to significant impairment in functioning and may require hospitalization for safety reasons

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder at ABC Neuro Hub:

At our clinic, we provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating bipolar disorder, integrating evidence-based therapies, neurofeedback, holistic support services and Medication management. Our goal is to help individuals effectively manage mood fluctuations, stabilize their mood, and improve overall quality of life.

Neurofeedback is an essential component of our treatment approach for bipolar disorder. Neurofeedback allows patients to learn how to regulate their brain activity, targeting specific neural pathways associated with mood regulation. By modulating brainwaves, patients can achieve greater stability in mood and reduce the frequency and severity of mood episodes.

Our evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation, are tailored to address the unique challenges of bipolar disorder. These therapies help individuals develop coping strategies, identify triggers, and manage symptoms related to mood episodes.

Medication management is another integral part of our treatment approach for bipolar disorder. Our experienced psychiatrists work closely with patients to develop medication regimens that effectively stabilize mood, manage symptoms, and minimize side effects.

In addition to therapeutic interventions and medication management, we emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications, including regular sleep patterns, healthy nutrition, exercise, and stress management techniques. These lifestyle changes play a crucial role in supporting mood stability and overall well-being.

Our experienced team of mental health professionals provides compassionate and individualized care, creating a supportive environment for patients to explore their feelings, challenges, and goals. We are dedicated to empowering individuals with bipolar disorder to achieve greater stability, resilience, and quality of life.