What is Bipolar Disorder?

  • Bipolar consists of oscillations between extreme mood states. These moods can either be depression and mania or just mania.

  • Most people experience episodes of depression beginning in early adulthood. Some have their first manic episode around age 25, although some do not have an episode of mania until middle adulthood. Sometimes mania can include psychosis.

  • In retrospect, some people experience episodes of “hypomania” before full blown mania. Hypomania includes symptoms of mania that are less intense- people are still able to function in everyday life.

    Treatment

  • Mania often lands people in the psychiatric hospital, especially if the mania includes psychosis.

  • The average hospital stay lasts 1-2 weeks. Treatment includes medication management to stabilize mood and induce sleep. For some, ECT is required to bring mood and psychosis back to baseline.

  • The prognosis for Bipolar Disorder can be good for individuals who adhere to evidenced-based treatment.

    The Role of Therapy

  • Psychotherapy is an important part of treatment when used in conjunction with medications.

  • Therapy modalities include CBT and Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy.

  • In terms of every day life, routine and good sleep are extremely important to maintain stability.