A Mini Guide to Bipolar Disorder | Everything You Need to Know

Bipolar disorder is one of the prevalent and severe mental health disorders. It brings along both mood and psychotic symptoms and the amalgam makes matters worse. 

As mentioned by the National Institute of Mental Health, around 5.7 million people in America are diagnosed with bipolar disorder every year. Besides that, disorder is fairly common among males compared to females. 

Nonetheless, if you don’t know enough about it, I’ve got you covered. Mentioned below are all the tiny bitsy details of bipolar disorder: 

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

The first thing that you need to do is know the symptoms of bipolar disorder so that it can be diagnosed sooner rather than later. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are as follows: 

• Increased energy, activity, and agitation
• Unusual talkativeness
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• An exaggerated sense of self or euphoria
• Social withdrawal
• Sleep and appetite disturbances
• Racing thoughts and distractibility
• Hallucinations and delusions

Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder 

Bipolar disorder manifests in three different episodes, including mania, hypomania, and major depressive episode. The treatment for bipolar disorder depends on the episode one is experiencing. The following are a few ways bipolar disorder can be treated: 

Allopathic Medicines 

• Antidepressants are prescribed to people with a major depressive episode of bipolar disorder. They alter the way neurotransmitters work and relieve stress as well as hopelessness and pessimism.
• Antipsychotics are essential if you’re having delusions and hallucinations. They may have a few side effects, but they’re mandatory to get the brain on the right track.
• Mood stabilizers are prescribed to manage the highs and lows of mood you experience in bipolar disorder. From constant agitation to sadness and indecisiveness, mood stabilizers can fix them all.

Natural Remedies 

• Herbs and plants are a great alternative to allopathic antidepressants. For those going through a major depressive episode of bipolar disorder, herbs and plants like ashwagandha, Melmac mushrooms, and passionflower can be very helpful.
• Regular exercise is also a must for people with bipolar disorder. Increased activity means an uplifted mood and improved energy levels. It can also naturally regulate sleep, which is another big concern for people with bipolar disorder.
• Meditation can be another feather in your cap. It’s a healing method that can promote your physical health and mental well-being simultaneously. It can relax you from head to toe, leaving you de-stressed and unwinded.

Psychotherapy 

• Once the patient comes to recovery, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is recommended. It’s a psychological treatment that alters the way your brain performs. It can change how you think and feel, providing you with a positive outlook on life.

Risk Factors of Bipolar Disorder 

Similar to other physical and mental ailments, bipolar disorder also has certain risk factors. Several things can increase your chances of getting the bipolar disorder, such as: 

• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Periods of stress, including the financial crisis, loss of a loved one, divorce, and more
• Having an immediate relative with a psychotic disorder
• Exposure to a traumatic event

Lastly, in case you or any of your loved ones have symptoms of bipolar disorder, I suggest you seek professional help right away. Once you have the diagnosis, you can create a mix of medical and herbal treatment and walk on your way towards recovery.