Bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression. According to the latest report bipolar disorder affects about 2% of the population and not 1% as previously thought. For those who suffer from this disorder can be very disturbing. But you know that you are not alone in these changes of mood.
Although bipolar disorder can affect anyone of any age, it usually begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. This disease does not depend on you. There is usually identified as a disease, so that people who have it may suffer needlessly for years or even decades. If left untreated, it can have devastating consequences such as abuse of alcohol and drugs, the deterioration of relations, a low work or school performance, financial and social problems and increased risk of suicide. Today we know more about the causes and treatment of mental problem.
Causes of Bipolar Disorder
As with other mood disorders, the basic causes for bipolar disorder are not fully known. Researchers think it is due to an imbalance of certain biochemical substances in the brain. Bipolar disorders often occur in some families, and more than two thirds of patients have at least one close relative with the disease or severe depression. In any case, genetics can not fully explain who and who is not sick. It is possible that the development of the disease is due to a process of sensitization (activation). The idea suggests that the first episodes of disease are induced or “triggered” by one major change or a stressful event, but each episode in the brain causes changes that increase the likelihood of triggering the next episode, which ultimately gives rise to episodes produced spontaneously.
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar disorder is characterized by symptoms that appear in different episodes with periods of normal mood in between. Most times there is no clear pattern of when or how often manic episodes will occur or when or how often alternate with depressive episodes. The mood swings can occur accused over a period of hours, days, weeks, months or even years.
Diagnosis
Unfortunately it usually takes a long time to diagnose the disease. Usually it is considered that it is a depression or other illness and until there is a manic episode is often not able to determine. Family history is important in determining the diagnosis which is therefore essential to give all necessary information to the psychiatrist so that you can do a good job.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
The treatment is achieved through medication, with a class of drugs known as mood stabilizers. A psychiatric accompaniment must be maintained over a long period. Some forms of psychotherapy can contribute to treatment.
