Bipolar Disorder: Everything You Need to Know

Bipolar disorder is among the most severe mental health disorders out there. Not to mention, it’s becoming more and more common by the day. As per the National Institute of Mental Health, around 2.8% of Americans are affected by bipolar disorder annually.

Furthermore, it is stated that bipolar disorder is the sixth leading cause of disability in the world. Also, bipolar disorder is said to be more common in men compared to women. The great thing is that it’s not found in children under the age of 12.

That being said, it is important to know all the tiny bitsy details about bipolar disorder. In this article today, I’m going to cover them all. Have a look:

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder has three different episodes, including mania, hypomania, and major depressive episodes. The symptoms of the disorder depend on the episode you’re experiencing. However, the following are a few common ones:

• Abnormally upbeat and jumpy behavior
• An exaggerated sense of self and euphoria
• Distractibility and racing thoughts
• Unusual talkativeness
• Decreased need for sleep
• Increased energy, agitation, or activity
• Withdrawal from friends and family

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

There are a variety of ways to treat bipolar disorder, but the treatment option you opt for greatly depends on the episode of bipolar disorder. Plus, the severity of the disorder plays a part in its treatment. Mentioned below are a few recommended treatment options for bipolar disorder:

• Allopathic medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers mainly prescribed in manic and hypomanic episodes.
• Electroconvulsive shock treatment (ECT) is recommended as a last resort in the case of severe bipolar disorder and suicidal behavior.
• Herbs and plants are suggested by many experts in the case of major depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. Passionflower and shroom chocolates are most effective in this regard.
• Lifestyle rehabilitation is also important; thus, regular exercise or yoga is what you need to add to your everyday routine.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is prescribed when the patient comes to recovery as it alters your thought process, providing long-term relief.

Risk Factors of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health illness and it has no known cause. However, several things increase your odds of developing the disorder. They are as follows:

• Having a history of alcohol or drug abuse
• Periods of high stress, including financial crisis or loss of a loved one
• A history of trauma, including physical and mental torture
• Having a first-degree relative, such as a parent or a sibling
• Life with damaged relationships or toxicity

The Final Word…

Mental health awareness is one thing and knowing about different disorders is another. All these details may not help you avoid bipolar disorder but they can surely help you steer clear of it. Bipolar disorder can be pretty severe if left untreated; therefore, you must take it seriously at all costs. I hope you find the article helpful. I wish you all the best, my friends. Please stay safe!

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