Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD) sometimes referred to as Manic-Depression is a chronic condition characterised by extreme swings in mood. This can include extreme emotional highs known as “mania” or “hypomania” and extreme lows “depression”.
Bipolar symptoms look different for each person. In some cases, episodes can last for weeks and even months and occur every few years. Others may experience shorter but more frequent episodes.
Bipolar affects approximately 2.2% of Australians. Generally, it starts in early adulthood and it is usually a lifelong condition.
There are several types of bipolar and related disorders:
This is characterised by extreme highs and lows in mood. It involves 1 or more manic episodes with periods of hypomania or depression often preceding this. It can also include psychosis. Generally, due to the severity of these symptoms, people may require hospitalisation.
This involves highs that are not as extreme known as “hypomania” and also periods of depression. Hypomanic episodes can last hours or days. There are also periods of normal mood known as “euthymia”. Whilst this disorder is not as severe as Bipolar I, it can be more chronic in nature as the depressive symptoms are often more frequent and longer-lasting.
This disorder results in persistent and unpredictable mood changes, however they are not as severe and generally have shorter duration. They still impact daily functioning.
Causes or factors that may contribute to the development of Bipolar Disorder
Research shows there are strong genetic links in Bipolar Disorder. Therefore, having someone in your family that has BPAD can increase your risk of developing the disorder.
Some people that are susceptible to BPAD may be triggered into episodes of mania or depressions eg family conflict, childhood abuse, major life altering events
Chemicals including norepinephrine, serotonin and are linked to mood disorders including BPAD
Certain medical conditions such as traumatic brain injuries may trigger changes in the brain triggering the condition
Misuse of certain substances ie some recreational drugs can be linked to BPAD ie cocaine and amphetamines. There is also evidence that excessive caffeine may trigger episodes of mania in some cases.
Diagnosis usually involves a thorough physical examination to rule out any physical conditions that may present with similar symptoms. This will usually include various blood test.s
A full and careful mental health assessment including history of life experiences, medications, substance use, family history etc
Mood charting- can assist in tracking the frequency and severity of symptoms
Early diagnosis and engagement in treatment is essential in developing strategies, stabilising moods to avoid harmful situations and improve quality of life.
Medication
Therapy
Psychological therapies are extremely effective in managing symptoms of BPAD. These can include:
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
ECT can be used in extreme cases where medication is ineffective, usually in extreme situations. Despite concerns people may have regarding ECT, it can be extremely effective and life saving in some situations.
Having BPAD can increase the risk of substance abuse including alcohol, tobacco and other drugs
BPAD can affect quality of life—impacting education, work, relationships, and causing medication side effects. Manic phases may lead to risky behaviors (e.g., unsafe sex, reckless spending, accidents), while depressive phases may bring severe suicidal thoughts.
Management:
With support from mental health professionals, family, and consistent treatment, symptoms and complications can be reduced. Destigmatizing BPAD is essential to improving outcomes and community support.
My Lotus Care Group supports a number of families living with ASD We provide support and education for families including:
To find out more please contact info@mylotus.com.au.
Lotus Disability Care is able to assist their participants to connect with a variety of allied Health services.