What Is Bipolar I Disorder?
Bipolar I is a psychological condition that used to be called manic depression. Bipolar I is a type of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by an abnormal presence of euphoria and episodes of depression.
To be diagnosed with bipolar I, the person must have experienced a manic or mixed episode. A manic episode causes symptoms of euphoria or irritability, difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, insomnia, loss of judgment, impulsivity, and feelings of grandiosity or self-importance. People in manic episodes may talk more or faster than usual and may fidget.
Severe episodes of mania can cause hallucinations and delusions. The content of the hallucinations and delusions from mania are related to the other symptoms of the disorder. For example, someone who is experiencing an inflated self-esteem may have a delusion of being chosen by God or aliens for their superiority.
A mixed episode is considered a combination of symptoms of mania as well as symptoms of depression. The person having a mixed episode may fluctuate from feeling hopeless and depressed to feelings of self-importance and euphoria. The switching between the two can be very frustrating for the individual.
While Bipolar II is characterized by episodes of depression, it is possible for a person with Bipolar I to have never experienced clinical depression. People with Bipolar II may experience milder forms of mania, called hypomania, but if they experience a manic episode or mixed episode, their diagnosis would be changed to Bipolar I.
Treatment for Bipolar I disorder often includes both medication and cognitive therapy. Mood-stabilizing medications such as Depakote are often used to help even out the persons mood and prevent manic episodes.
Sometimes, people close to those with bipolar disorder become frustrated with the symptoms and expect the person with bipolar disorder to stop the symptoms. The individual with bipolar disorder cannot will the symptoms away just like someone with heart disease cannot make the condition go away.
Peoples experiences with bipolar disorder are highly individualized. Some people struggle with managing the symptoms even when they are doing what they can to manage the disorder. Others are able to live with very little interference by the symptoms.
Even though the person cannot stop the symptoms of bipolar disorder, the person can learn to manage the condition. Unfortunately, even with proper treatment, the person may have a relapse of symptoms. At those times, the person should try to remain patient and seek help from their mental health professionals.
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