Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive disorder) is an illness that causes mood swings to extremes. There are often periods of normal mood in between, with moods ranging from feeling on top of the world or uncomfortably overly restless and fast (this is the "mania" period) to feeling extremely sad and hopeless (this is the "depression").

Bipolar disorder is a disease that causes changes in the mood, energy and functionality of the person, but does not interfere with living a normal life under treatment. The disorder can lead to deterioration in relationships, difficulties in work or school life, and even suicide.

The suicide risk of patients with bipolar disorder is 2-3 times higher than the general population average and the death rate is higher.

The good thing about this disease is that it is treatable. In this way, people can have a full and productive life.

Symptoms of Bipolar Affective Disorder

Manic Episode Symptoms

• During the manic phase, the person experiences a feeling of absolute happiness that he is on top of the world or that nothing (even bad news or a terrible tragedy) can change it.
• They may have unrealistically exaggerated beliefs about their abilities. They display an overt grandeur, inappropriate, and increased self-confidence.
• Sudden or extreme irritability or anger is observed. While mania is often portrayed as an enjoyable experience, this is not the case for most people with bipolar disorder.
• Hyperactivity and increased arousal are observed. Programs more work than you can do in a day; He cannot sit still, cannot relax.
• They may have delusions of grandeur, such as thinking they have a special connection to God, famous people, or political leaders.
• Their judgment is markedly impaired, and they may engage in excessive shopping, inappropriate sexual relations, and irrational business investments.
• They may have fast-paced, increasingly inconsistent conversations in a loud voice that suddenly shifts from topic to topic. Their thoughts may be racing and uncontrollable.
• Less need for sleep.

Symptoms of Depressive Episode

• In the depressive period, the patient feels helpless, hopeless and worthless. Extreme sadness or hopelessness, helplessness is experienced.
• He no longer takes an interest in activities he once enjoyed.
• His energy runs out, he feels exhausted and tired.
• Sleep disorders such as sleeping too much or not being able to sleep at all are observed.
• There can be a noticeable increase in appetite or significant weight loss without dieting.
• Concentration, memory and decision-making disorders occur.
• There may be thoughts about death or suicide.

Severe episodes of mania or depression sometimes also include psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations (seeing and hearing things that aren´t actually there) and delusions (false but strong beliefs unaffected by logical explanations).

Who Gets Bipolar Affective Disorder?

Bipolar disorder can develop in anyone. Its onset is usually in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, the disorder can also be seen in children and adults. The disorder usually persists throughout life.

Treatment of Bipolar Affective Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a treatable disease. Since it is a recurrent disease, long-term preventive treatment is very important. Medication alone or drug therapy combined with psychotherapy are the most effective ways to control the disease over time. In the majority of cases, much better control is achieved when treatment is continuous.

Even if treatment is never interrupted, mood changes can sometimes occur. Close and open communication with the psychiatrist can increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

Like all serious illnesses, bipolar disorder can lead to disruptions and disruptions in a person´s life and relationships with others. Therefore, people under treatment for bipolar disorder may benefit from psychotherapy to work with their psychiatrist to resolve problems and re-establish relationships damaged by the illness.

Because bipolar disorder can cause serious disruptions in family life and create extreme stress within the family, other family members may also benefit from the help they will receive, especially from mental health professionals. Families not only learn from these specialists about strategies that can help them cope with the disease, but also learn how to become an active part of treatment.