What is it?

Bipolar disorder is a disorder that causes one's mood to fluctuate from feeling down, or depressed, to feeling up, or manic. There are several types of bipolar disorder which are characterized by how severe the mood swings are and how often they occur, or cycle. It is important to realize that while moods vary in everyone, in patients with bipolar disorder mood changes are exaggerated and they interfere with relationships, job performance, and general well being.

What causes it?

The incidence of all mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder, is considerably higher among the blood relatives of individuals with clinically diagnosed mood disorders than the general population. This suggests a biological or genetic predisposition to this disorder. Some of the other biological factors that are implicated in this disorder are disturbances in brain serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and glutamic acid activity.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms consist of both depression and mania. In contrast to depression alone, people with bipolar disorder have had at least one manic episode in the past, including the following symptoms:

• Marked irritability
• Heightened sense of sexuality

• Spending sprees
• Racing thoughts
• Increase in energy level

• Restlessness
• Expansive mood
• Diminished need for sleep

What are the treatment options?

Mood stabilizing medications are the mainstay of treatment for patients with bipolar disorder. These include lithium, Depakote, Tegretol, Lamictal. Numerous other medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics and anxiolytics are also commonly prescribed. In addition to medication, it is recommended that individuals get counseling, at least initially, for support and education given the life-long management of the illness.