बाइपोलर विकारलाई नेपालीमा “द्विधातु विकार” भनिन्छ। यस विकारमा मानसिक रोगीको मनोवैज्ञानिक अवस्थामा दबाव अधिक रहन्छ जुन अत्यधिक उत्तेजनात्मक अवस्थामा (मानियामा) र अत्यधिक विषण्ण अवस्थामा (डिप्रेसनमा) सम्भव हुन्छ। यस विकारमा मानिसको मनस्थितिको अत्यधिक उत्तेजनात्मक र निम्न उत्तेजनात्मक समय समयमा परिवर्तन हुन्छ।
What is Bipolar disorder?
Introduction:
Bipolar disorder is a mental health illness marked by significant mood swings, such as mania or hypomania, and depression. These mood fluctuations can have a major influence on everyday functioning and quality of life. In this post, we’ll look at the intricacies of bipolar illness, including symptoms, causes, and successful coping strategies for managing the condition.
How do you understand Bipolar disorder?
Understanding Bipolar disorder:
Bipolar disorder is more than just occasional mood swings—it’s a chronic illness that requires lifelong management. There are three main types of bipolar disorder:
- Bipolar I Disorder: Individuals experience manic episodes that last at least seven days or are severe enough to require hospitalization. Depressive episodes may also occur.
- Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes alternating with hypomanic episodes, which are less severe than full-blown mania.
- Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): A milder form of bipolar disorder marked by numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that last for at least two years (one year in children and adolescents).
What are the causes of Bipolar disorder?
Causes of Bipolar disorder:
- Genetics:
- Bipolar disorder is assumed to be genetic, as it runs in families.
- Family members of a person with bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
- However, no single gene is responsible for bipolar disorder. Instead, a variety of genetic and environmental factors are hypothesized to serve as triggers.
- Triggers:
Bipolar illness symptoms are frequently triggered by a stressful event or environment.
Examples of stressful triggers are:
- Possible causes of relationship breakup include physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
- the death of a close relative or loved one
- These life-altering experiences can trigger periods of depression at any point in a person’s life.
- Bipolar disorder could also be triggered by:
- Physical Illness
- Sleep disorders.
- Overwhelming concerns in everyday life, such as money, employment, or relationships
- Chemical imbalance throughout the brain
- There is evidence that bipolar disorder may be linked to chemical imbalances in the brain.
- Noradrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine are examples of neurotransmitters, which are molecules that govern brain function.
- Some research suggests that if the levels of one or more neurotransmitters are imbalanced, a person may develop bipolar disorder symptoms.
- For example, there is evidence that episodes of mania can occur when noradrenaline levels are excessively high, whereas episodes of depression can occur when noradrenaline levels go too low.
Symptoms of Bipolar disorder:
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary depending on the type and severity of the episode but may include:
- Manic/Hypomanic Episodes: Elevated mood, increased energy or activity, racing thoughts, reduced need for sleep, impulsivity, and engaging in risky behaviors.
- Depressive Episodes: Sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
How do you manage Bipolar disorder?
Managing Bipolar disorder:
Managing bipolar disorder involves medication adherence, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants prescribed by a healthcare provider help stabilize mood. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), assists in coping skills. Regular sleep, exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding substance abuse support overall well-being.
How can you overcome Bipolar disorder?
Overcoming Bipolar disorder:
Overcoming bipolar disorder involves ongoing treatment, support, and self-care. Adhering to medication, attending therapy, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial. Building a strong support network, practicing stress management techniques, and staying proactive in managing symptoms can help individuals achieve stability and lead fulfilling lives.
Treatment for Bipolar disorder:
Certainly, here are the treatment options for bipolar disorder outlined in points:
- Medication:
– Mood stabilizers such as lithium, valproate, or lamotrigine help regulate mood swings and prevent relapse.
– Antipsychotic medications like quetiapine or olanzapine may be prescribed to manage manic or mixed episodes.
– Antidepressants are sometimes used cautiously in combination with mood stabilizers to address depressive symptoms.
- Psychotherapy:
– Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and improve problem-solving skills.
– Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) focuses on stabilizing daily routines, managing stress, and enhancing interpersonal relationships.
- Lifestyle Modifications:
– Establishing a regular sleep schedule and practicing good sleep hygiene are essential for mood stability.
– Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol and drug abuse support overall well-being.
- Supportive Interventions:
– Peer support groups and psychoeducation programs provide encouragement, understanding, and practical advice for managing bipolar disorder.
– Family therapy helps improve communication, problem-solving skills, and support networks among family members.
- Hospitalization:
– In severe cases or during acute episodes, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure safety, stabilize mood, and provide intensive treatment and supervision.
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT):
– ECT may be considered for individuals with severe bipolar depression or those who have not responded to other treatments. It involves brief electrical stimulation of the brain under anesthesia.
- Complementary and Alternative Therapies:
– Some individuals find relief from symptoms through complementary approaches such as acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness meditation, or nutritional supplements. However, these should be used cautiously and in conjunction with traditional treatments.
References:
- Molly Howland, M.D. and Alex El Sehamy M.D., “What Are Bipolar Disorders?” www.psychiatry.org, January 2021, https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/bipolar-disorders/what-are-bipolar-disorders
- “Bipolar Disorder” www.nhs.uk, January 3, 2023, https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/bipolar-disorder/