What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition in which individuals experience intense changes in mood. These mood swings can alternate between manic or hypomanic to depressive.
Bipolar disorder is quite common and can impact individuals of all genders and ages. According to reports bipolar disorder may affect 1 in every 100 people at some stage of their life. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 40 million people experienced bipolar disorder in 2019.
Bipolar Meaning In Urdu
Bipolar disorder in Urdu language is known as بائی پولر ڈس آرڈر. It is a mental health condition characterized by bizarre shifts in mood, energy, or behavior from highs (mania) to lows (depression).
The States Of Bipolar Disorder
The three main states in bipolar disorder are:
- Manic: The manic state is the "high" state in bipolar disorder. In manic or hypomanic episodes, the person can feel happier and more energetic. During this state of mind individuals have a tendency to be more talkative and easily agitated while having racing thoughts and a lessened desire to eat or sleep. Behavior in a manic state can be impulsive and reckless at times. For example, individuals may spend or gamble a large sum of money they normally wouldn’t. Manic individuals can be easily distracted and can indulge in purposeless activities such as fidgeting and pacing aimlessly around the room.
- Depressive: The depressive or "low" state in bipolar disorder is the complete opposite of mania. In this state individuals may feel intense sadness, worthlessness, tiredness, appetite changes, and loss of interest in a majority of activities. In severe cases, the affected person may have suicidal thoughts. If you are having suicidal thoughts during a depressive episodes get help immediately by calling your relevant emergency helpline number.
- Euthymic: There is also a third state of mood known as euthymia that bipolar affected individuals may experience. This can occur between the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. During euthymic episodes, individuals have a stable mood in which they are neither depressed or hypomanic.
Bipolar Disorder Causes
Bipolar disorder has baffled scientists and researchers alike for ages. Its exact cause is still unknown however experts believe it may be triggered due to a number of factors such as:
- Genetics: If bipolar disorder runs in your family or If a close relative such as a parent or sibling has it, it would put you at a greater risk of having it
- Physiological Differences: Scientists believe physical differences in the brain, how the brain develops, and chemical factors may also contribute to bipolar disorder
- Other Causes: Overwhelming stress, traumatic events, or major life problems such as financial difficulties or marital issues such as divorce may trigger bipolar disorder episodes.
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar symptoms can be categorized by episode.
1) Manic episode symptoms
- Feeling invincible
- Feeling overly happy or joyful
- Being overactive
- Being agitated
- Being restless
- Having poor judgment
- Making impulsive decisions
- Feeling high on energy
- Low desire for eating or sleeping
- Racing thoughts
- Being talkative or talking very fast
2) Depressive episode symptoms
- Sadness
- Low energy
- Feeling lethargic
- Feeling worthless
- Lack of interest in activities
- Sleep changes (Insomnia or too much sleep)
- Weight changes (weight loss or weight gain)
- Suicidal thoughts
Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Bipolar disorder can be treated in the following ways:
- Medications: Medications can help manage manic and depressive episodes to lessen their impact on your health and wellbeing. These medications, known as mood stabilizers, are usually prescribed as part of your long-term treatment plan.
- Lifestyle changes: Along with other treatments, a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, yoga, or meditation are some healthy habits that can help bipolar disorder individuals.
- Talk Therapy: Psychotherapy or talk therapy can be effective as a means of treating bipolar disorder along with medications. Talking to a licensed mental health professional gives you a platform to share your thoughts and feelings and seek support. This can help you learn more about your condition to recognize and cope with associated symptoms in a better way.
Bipolar Disorder Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent bipolar disorder due to a lack of concrete evidence on its underlying causes. However, learning more about its symptoms can help with early diagnosis and timely treatment.
How To Book An Appointment With A Doctor For Bipolar Disorder In Lahore?
You can use oladoc to book appointments with doctors for bipolar disorder. Select your preferred doctor by checking patient ratings and reviews. With oladoc, you can schedule your appointments within minutes and get timely reminders so you don’t miss out on them. In case of any issues, you can contact our helpline number 04238900939 for assistance regarding your appointments.
