Effects and Treatment of Bipolar Disorders

Introduction

Ever wonder how many people in this world have Bipolar Disorder but have no clue? Though the causes and effects of Bipolar Disorder vary, there are many options to treat it. A genetic connection to bipolar disorder has been found, indicating that children with one biological parent with bipolar I or bipolar II disorder have an increased likelihood of developing the condition (Goodwin & Jamison, 2007). Most people with bipolar disorder experience at least one social rhythm disruption caused by a major mood episode. Some effects of bipolar disorder include the use of drugs or alcohol to cope with symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and if left untreated, the manic and depressive episodes can be devastating. In conclusion, bipolar disorder affects people because it is a lifelong condition; it's more complex than just taking medication and having it disappear.

Causes and Genetic Factors

Studies show that the cause of Bipolar Disorder is partly related to a malfunction in certain brain circuits (Phillips & Kupfer, 2013). Research also indicates that bipolar disorder can sometimes run in families. "Because it appears bipolar disorder can run in families, there seems to be at least some genetic factors at play. About half the people with bipolar disorder have a family member with a mood disorder, such as depression" (NIMH, 2022). If there is a parent or family member with this disorder, there is a 40 to 70% chance that individuals can inherit this disorder from a family member. A variety of genetic factors and disturbances of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) provide a biological basis for making some people vulnerable to bipolar disorder (Miklowitz, 2011). People with this disorder can be challenging to deal with, as mood swings can range from anger to depression, sleepiness, confusion, and beyond. "The current thinking is that this is a predominantly neurobiological disorder that occurs in a specific part of the brain and is due to a malfunction of certain brain chemicals (that occur both in the brain and the body)" (Goodwin & Jamison, 2007). There is a possibility that this disorder can be triggered by life stressors.

Emotional, Physical, and Mental Effects

Bipolar Disorder affects individuals in three ways: emotionally, physically, and mentally. According to Brown University, "People with bipolar disorder are often depressed, irritable, and easily agitated. Intense feelings of guilt are common, and individuals are generally pessimistic and apathetic" (Brown University, n.d.). People with this disorder tend to feel helpless, worthless, and abandoned, leading to suicidal thoughts or ideation. Physically, individuals may experience a lack of energy. "Disorders of sleeping and eating vary from one individual to the next. Sleep disorders are common as some persons with bipolar disorder may sleep 14 hours per day. Increased appetite is frequent and associated with dramatic weight gains for some. For others, insomnia and lack of appetite may be the norm" (Miklowitz, 2011). During the manic state of this disorder, energy levels can make it harder to focus on just one task, leading to scattered behavior. Mentally, bipolar disorder affects concentration. Memory problems are not uncommon with this disorder. "Speech is often affected as patients may find it difficult to express themselves coherently. In some manic states, individuals may experience hallucinations and delusions of thought. These mental experiences combined with impulsive behavior may be linked to suicidal tendencies for some" (Phillips & Kupfer, 2013). People who are bipolar experience multiple mood episodes, making it difficult to determine their mood or feelings, and it is challenging for them to understand themselves.

Treatment Options

Some solutions to help manage this disorder include medication and therapy. "The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Most people take more than one drug, like a mood-stabilizing drug and an antipsychotic, benzodiazepine, or antidepressant" (NIMH, 2022). It's crucial not to miss out on sleep because "Missing sleep can trigger a mood change. Getting enough sleep is essential to managing mood," so people who have difficulty sleeping should consult a physician. If a person has experienced more than two manic or hypomanic moods, they have a lifetime bipolar disorder. "A person should have maintenance therapy to minimize the risk of future episodes" (Miklowitz, 2011). People often mistake the absence of bipolar disorder symptoms as a cure, but they are not. Therapy is crucial for those with this disorder because it can help people control their anger and avoid saying or doing things they don't mean. "Therapy can teach you how to deal with problems your symptoms are causing, including relationship, work, and self-esteem issues" (Phillips & Kupfer, 2013). Therapy also helps address unnoticed problems or struggles individuals face.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to acquire this disorder: one can have the gene, or family members may have it. People with this condition should attend therapy and take medication to help manage it. It's essential for them to maintain control and document their day, feelings, etc. They should be cautious and avoid overthinking, as it can impact their emotions and mood episodes.

References:

• Brown University. (n.d.). Understanding bipolar disorder. Retrieved from https://www.brown.edu/understanding-bipolar
• Goodwin, F. K., & Jamison, K. R. (2007). Manic-depressive illness: Bipolar disorders and recurrent depression. Oxford University Press.
• Miklowitz, D. J. (2011). The bipolar disorder survival guide: What you and your family need to know. Guilford Press.
• NIMH. (2022). Bipolar disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/bipolar-disorder
• Phillips, M. L., & Kupfer, D. J. (2013). Bipolar disorder diagnosis: Challenges and future directions. The Lancet, 381(9878), 1663-1671.