What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depressive illness, is an illness which has significant psychological, social and interpersonal consequences. It has been scientifically shown to have a biological base and genetic contribution just as strong as for insulin dependent diabetes. It is defined, as well as by periods of depression, by also having periods of "mania" (bipolar I) or less severe "hypomania" (bipolar II).
Manic episodes are frequently very disruptive to life and relationships. Often these episodes may be highly perplexing to family, partners and friends who do not realise the underlying cause of what is going on. They involve distinct periods of abnormally elated or euphoric mood and other symptoms such as grandiose feelings, little need for sleep, racing thoughts, unusual talkativeness, irritability and anger, distractibility, involvement in potentially harmful behaviours, and occupational or social impairment.
Depressive episodes significantly interfere with life function and satisfaction, often creating great strain on personal relationships. Changes may include, decreased interest in activities, low energy, poor concentration, irritability, disrupted appetite and sleep patterns as well as low mood, pessimism and sometimes suicidal thoughts or acts.
Sometimes a mixture of the depressive and manic symptoms may even occur at the same time - a "mixed episode." This is particularly risky as people may have the combination of suicidal despondency of depression and the difficulty controlling impulses seen in mania together. Unfortunately these "mixed states" are frequently not recognised and properly treated, even by mental health professionals.
Bipolar disorder has a strong a genetic basis as a "physical disorder" such as diabetes. Unfortunately the genes involved in susceptibility, and hence likely to be of value in developing treatments remain unidentified. This provides a strong opportunity for additional medical research.
Bipolar disorder usually strikes before the age of 35, frequently in the late teens and early 20’s.
The identification of bipolar disorder is important to individuals as it can already be effectively treated. Its differentiation from non-bipolar depression is vital as the wrong treatment for this problem may actually worsen the course of bipolar illness.
