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Life can have its ups and downs. If these fluctuations are extreme, it can lead to problems. Here, we will explain what bipolar disorder is and how to get help.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings, energy and activity levels. These fluctuations result in periods of manic (or hypomanic) and depressive episodes.
There are several types of bipolar disorder, including type 1, type 2, and cyclothymia, depending on the severity and duration of manic and depressive periods, with type 1 being the most severe form. It is a disease treated in specialist psychiatry.
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What causes bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. For bipolar disorder, there is a strong genetic component, as the risk increases if a close relative has the disorder. Biological factors include changes in brain structure and chemical imbalances. Environmental factors such as stressful life events can trigger the disease in genetically prone individuals. Hormonal imbalances can also play a role. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that requires professional treatment.
How common is bipolar disorder?
According to the National Department of Health, prevalence rates for Bipolar disorder in South Africa are unknown but are possibly similar to global rates, with a 12‐month prevalence of around 1% for Bipolar I Disorder (BD‐I) and 1% for Bipolar II Disorder (BD‐II).
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Symptoms of bipolar disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary depending on the type of mood swings experienced – manic, hypomanic or depressive episodes:
- Manic Episodes: Here, you often experience excessive energy, activity, and restlessness with an extremely elevated mood or irritability. There may be a reduced need for sleep and increased talkativeness or rapid speech. Racing thoughts and being easily distracted are common, and you may have an exaggerated belief in your abilities. Risky behaviours such as impulsive money or sexual adventures are also common.
- Hypomanic Episodes: Similar to manic episodes but less severe and less disruptive to everyday life. However, they can still lead to noticeable changes in behaviour and mood.
- Depressive Episodes: Prolonged sadness, hopelessness or emptiness with loss of interest or pleasure in most activities. There may be changes in weight and appetite and problems sleeping (too much or too little). Restlessness or sluggishness is common, as is fatigue or lack of energy. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or unfair guilt, difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide are common.
Bipolar disorder often involves cycles of these mood swings, which vary in length and intensity. Diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder should be handled by a qualified health professional in a specialist psychiatric hospital. You can get a referral from your GP or contact them directly.
Treatment of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is diagnosed and treated in specialist psychiatry and is not something we do at Lavendla. Treatment usually includes medication, but also psychological treatment. Family members may also receive support as part of the treatment. In addition, it is important to adapt the therapy to the individual’s specific needs and situation and to consider lifestyle factors. If you have bipolar disorder, routines, avoiding alcohol, working on your sleep, exercising regularly and managing stress are essential. The disease is also routinely monitored with annual check-ups. It is possible to live an everyday life if you take care of your bipolar disorder.
As these conditions can be severe, it is not uncommon for people to be admitted to inpatient care during acute episodes. If you or someone you know is experiencing manic or delusional behaviour, you can call 0800 456 789 or go to an emergency psychiatric clinic.
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Being a relative of someone with bipolar disorder
It is essential to get knowledge and information about the illness yourself if you are a family member. You can also offer emotional support but remember that you are not a substitute for qualified care. Family groups and training courses can also be helpful, often provided by specialist psychiatric services or non-profit associations. It is also good to be aware of heredity and take care of yourself if you are the child of someone with bipolar disorder.
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Approaching the topic of bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, but we are here to make the hard part easier. You can easily book a session with us when you think it’s time to talk to a psychologist or therapist. No matter when you take the step, our experienced team is always ready to help you or your loved ones.
12 FAQs about Bipolar Disorder
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition with alternating periods of depression and mania or a mixture of the two. These alternations can be so extreme that they disrupt a person’s daily life and functioning.
How common is bipolar disorder?
Although the prevalence in South Africa is unknown, it is believed that about 1% of our population has bipolar disorder.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Extreme swings in mood, energy and activity levels characterize bipolar disorder. These fluctuations result in periods of manic (or hypomanic) and depressive episodes.
What is psychosis?
Psychotic illness, often just called psychosis, is a psychiatric condition in which a person has difficulty distinguishing between what is reality and what is not. Psychosis is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can occur in various mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, or as a result of certain medical conditions or substance use.
What causes bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. There is a strong hereditary component although other factors such as biology, life events and hormones also have an impact.
What are the treatment options for bipolar disorder?
Treatment usually includes medication and psychological treatment. Family members may also receive support as part of the treatment. It is also important to consider lifestyle factors and have regular follow-ups.
Are there different forms of bipolar disorder?
There are several types of bipolar disorder, including type 1, type 2, and cyclothymia, depending on the severity and duration of manic and depressive periods. Type 1 is the more severe form while type 2 is milder.
Can you recover from bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic illness, but that doesn’t mean you can feel good and have a good life if you manage your lifestyle and treatment plan.
Is there a link between creativity and bipolar disorder?
Yes, a link between bipolar disorder and creativity has been suggested, and there is research to support this link. However, not everyone with bipolar disorder is creative.
What can I do as a family member of someone with bipolar disorder?
The most important step is to encourage the person to seek professional help. You can also offer emotional support but remember that you are not a substitute for qualified care. Family groups and training courses can also be helpful. It is also good to be aware of heredity and take care of yourself if you are the child of someone with bipolar disorder.
Can you force someone to go to therapy?
No, you can’t force someone to undergo therapeutic treatment. People need to understand that they need to work on themselves, but if the situation is acute with manic episodes or severe depression, they can be given compulsory treatment in order not to harm themselves. This decision is made by a doctor in an inpatient setting.
Where can I go if I or someone I know has symptoms of bipolar disorder?
To get help, you should go to your healthcare centre for a referral to a specialist psychiatrist. It is possible to get help. If you have acute symptoms, call 0800 456 789 or go to the emergency department.
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