Bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression) is a mental health condition characterized by significant, often extreme, shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These aren’t just “mood swings”; they are intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods known as “mood episodes.”
Here are 10 vital facts to help you understand the complexities of bipolar disorder and how it is treated.
Bipolar disorder is defined by the oscillation between two extremes:
Mania (The Highs): Feeling euphoric, wired, or unusually irritable. Energy is high, and the need for sleep decreases.
Depression (The Lows): Feeling empty, hopeless, or fatigued. Energy is low, and interest in daily activities disappears.
Not everyone experiences bipolar disorder the same way. The three main types are:
Bipolar I: Defined by manic episodes that last at least seven days, or manic symptoms so severe that immediate hospital care is needed.
Bipolar II: Defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (a less severe version of full mania).
Cyclothymic Disorder: Periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years.
It is a common misconception that all “highs” are the same. Hypomania is a milder form of mania. During a hypomanic episode, a person might feel very productive and social. However, Mania is much more severe and can lead to “psychosis” (losing touch with reality) or risky behaviors that have serious consequences.
Sometimes, a person can experience symptoms of mania and depression simultaneously. This is known as a mixed episode. For example, an individual may feel very energized and agitated (manic) while feeling extremely hopeless and suicidal (depressive).
Bipolar disorder is a biological condition. Neuroimaging often shows physical changes in the brains of people with the disorder. Specifically, there are often issues with the way neurotransmitters like noradrenaline and serotonin function, which are the chemicals responsible for regulating mood.
Bipolar disorder is one of the most heritable mental health conditions. If a parent or sibling has the disorder, the risk of developing it increases. However, most people with a family history do not develop it; environmental stressors often act as the trigger for the first episode.
Bipolar disorder is frequently misdiagnosed as Major Depressive Disorder. If a patient only tells their doctor about their “lows” and doesn’t mention their “highs,” they may be prescribed antidepressants alone. In people with bipolar disorder, antidepressants without a mood stabilizer can sometimes trigger a manic episode.
Sleep disruption is both a symptom and a trigger for bipolar disorder. A lack of sleep can provoke a manic episode, while excessive sleep is often a hallmark of the depressive phase. Maintaining a strict “sleep hygiene” routine is a cornerstone of management.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but it is highly manageable. Treatment usually involves:
Mood Stabilisers: Such as Lithium, which helps prevent the frequency and severity of episodes.
Psychotherapy: To help recognize early warning signs (prodromes) of a mood shift.
Routine: Keeping a consistent daily schedule for eating and exercise.
Because bipolar disorder can affect judgment during manic phases, having a “Crisis Plan” or “Advance Statement” in place is vital. This allows family and doctors to know how to help the individual when they are not in a position to make healthy decisions for themselves.
Bipolar disorder is a marathon, not a sprint. While the mood shifts can be disruptive, many people with bipolar disorder—including famous artists, CEOs, and writers—lead highly successful lives by maintaining a careful balance of medication, therapy, and self-care.
NHS England: Bipolar Disorder Overview
Bipolar UK: Support and Information
Mind UK: Understanding Bipolar
SANE: Mental Health Support
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