Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive illness) is a mental disorder characterized by two distinct episodes of illness. One is the manic episode, marked by an elevated mood in which the person feels very energetic, special and important, needs less sleep, talks more, has racing thoughts and engages in exciting activities without thinking about the consequences (spending a lot of money, driving fast, trying to launch very large projects).
The other is the depressive episode, in which the patient experiences unhappiness, low mood, lack of motivation, reduced self-confidence, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and thoughts of death and suicide.
During these episodes, patients may engage in behaviors that put both themselves and the people around them at risk of harm.
Who gets bipolar disorder?
It affects men and women equally. The average age of onset is between 20 and 25. Genetic factors play a very important role among the causes of the illness. Together with a genetic predisposition, traumatic or major life events (childbirth, a death, military service, marriage, divorce, moving, changing jobs, etc.) can trigger an episode.
Treatment of bipolar disorder
The patient and the physician must work together. Medication plays an important role in treatment. In addition to medication, it is necessary to bring order to daily life (regulating sleep and eating habits, stopping alcohol and substance use, etc.) and to have sufficient information about the illness.
The physician starts treatment based on the signs and complaints. Treatment should not be stopped without the physician's knowledge.
The course of bipolar disorder
The two seemingly opposite types of episodes follow a course of flare-ups and remissions. Between episodes, many people return to their normal mood and carry on with their lives with symptoms that partly affect daily life. If bipolar disorder is not treated, a manic episode can last several months, while a depressive episode lasts at least 6 months.
Recognizing the illness and being able to notice its symptoms is very important for early intervention. It is also important to explain these symptoms to the patient's relatives so that they, too, can recognize when an episode is starting.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
