Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.
There are majorly three types of bipolar disorder. All three types involve clear changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods range from periods of extremely “up,” elated, irritable, or energized behaviour (known as manic episodes) to very “down,” sad, indifferent, or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). Less severe manic periods are known as hypomanic episodes.
To determine if you have bipolar disorder, your evaluation may include:
- Physical exam : Your doctor may do a physical exam and lab tests to identify any medical problems that could be causing your symptoms.
- Psychiatric assessment : A psychiatrist will talk to you about your thoughts, feelings and behaviour patterns. You may also fill out a psychological self-assessment or questionnaire. With your permission, family members or close friends may be asked to provide information about your symptoms.
- Mood charting : You may be asked to keep a daily record of your moods, sleep patterns or other factors that could help with diagnosis and finding the right treatment.
- Criteria for bipolar disorder : Your psychiatrist may use guidelines like ICD issued by WHO, or DSM published by American Psychiatric Association, to diagnose bipolar and related disorders.
Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
Treatment is best guided by a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions (psychiatrist) who is skilled in treating bipolar and related disorders. You may have a treatment team that also includes a psychologist, social worker and psychiatric nurse.
Bipolar disorder is usually a long term condition. Treatment is directed at managing symptoms. Depending on your needs, treatment may include medications, regular treatment, substance abuse treatment, and hospitalization if needed in some cases.
