Never before has there been more mainstream awareness of mental health issues. This reality is critical in helping people become more capable of recognizing signs and seeking help. However, like most aspects of modern life, increased awareness can lead to a parallel increase in confusion and misunderstandings. Take, for example, Bipolar Disorder.

The word “bipolar” is often casually tossed around as an all-purpose adjective. As a result, false perceptions can propagate. People who genuinely struggle with Bipolar Disorder may end up acting upon information that will not help them. Therefore, in the name of accuracy, let’s present some basic facts about a disease that impacts about 1 in 40 Americans today.

Bipolar I Disorder

There are other, less severe variations of this disorder, and we will touch on them below. For now, the focus will be on the most common and challenging version. Bipolar I Disorder presents with alternating episodes of mania and depression. Since depression is a common mood disorder on its own, Bipolar I Disorder is most often diagnosed when a person is in the throes of a manic episode. 

What’s a Manic Episode Like?

The primary criteria include the following:

• A person is either extremely energetic or irritable

• The episode lasts at least one week

• The person’s behavior is unlike how they typically behave

In order for Bipolar Disorder to be considered a possible cause, the person must experience at least three of the changes on this list (for at least one week):

• Rapid speech and/or talking much more than usual 

• Racing, ever-changing thoughts that are evident through the person’s conversation topics

• Feeling so much energy that they barely sleep

• Burning off that energy through non-stop activity 

• Easily distracted

• Engaging in risky or dangerous behavior 

These kinds of symptoms are severe enough to hamper one’s ability to handle daily functioning. In more extreme instances, the person may experience psychotic signs like hallucinations.

What’s a Major Depressive Episode Like?

The “down” episode lasts at least two weeks, during which the person in question displays intense sadness and loses interest in activities that once excited them (including sex). Beyond that, you must experience at least four of the following symptoms:

• Sleep and appetite disturbances (increase or decrease of either)

• Fatigue

• Restlessness

• A feeling of worthlessness or guilt

• Inability to concentrate 

• Slow movement and/or speech

• Thoughts of death, dying, or suicide

Other Important Bipolar Disorder Facts

• In Bipolar II Disorder, the depressive and hypomanic episodes are shorter and less severe.

• Someone with Cyclothymic Disorder experiences hypomanic and depressive symptoms.  However, these symptoms are briefer and less intense and, thus, do not qualify as episodes.

• As many as 9 in 10 people with Bipolar Disorder have a family history of the condition.

• The average at which Bipolar Disorder is diagnosed is 25.

• There are no clear-cut causes, but stress, substance abuse, and biochemical imbalances are believed to play a role.

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

As challenging as all of the above may sound, help is available. A blend of medication and talk therapy commonly results in a lessening of symptoms. Treatment is very individualized, but mood-enhancing medications have proved effective. However, since Bipolar Disorder can seriously disrupt your day-to-day life, therapy is a powerful co-modality. Working with a therapist is an excellent way to learn more about the illness. In addition, your therapy sessions are valuable in helping you avoid triggers and stay on point with medications.

Loving someone with Bipolar Disorder has its challenges, and it makes a whole lot of sense to seek the support you need. Both therapy and support groups are also useful for family members, partners, and other loved ones. Either way, it starts with a free and confidential consultation.