Understanding and Living with Bipolar Disorder.
Sarah, a 28-year-old marketing professional, was known for her boundless energy and creativity. During her manic episodes, she felt invincible—working tirelessly for days with little to no sleep, talking rapidly, and taking on multiple projects at once. She made impulsive decisions, spent large sums of money on unnecessary purchases, and felt an overwhelming sense of confidence, believing she could accomplish anything. However, her excitement often led to reckless behaviour, straining her personal and professional relationships.
Eventually, Sarah’s manic phase would spiral into agitation and irritability. She would easily engage in arguments, and struggled with focus. Despite warnings from loved ones, she didn’t recognise that something was wrong. Eventually, her parents sought professional help for her. After being diagnosed with bipolar mood disorder, Sarah began medication and therapy. With the guidance of her doctors and counselors, along with the unwavering support of her family and friends, she was able to grow and improve her well-being.
What is Bipolar Mood Disorder?
Everyone experiences mood changes from time to time. However, for some individuals, these shifts are more pronounced. In people with bipolar disorder, emotional highs and depressive lows can be so intense that they significantly impact daily life. These extreme mood shifts alternate between manic episodes (where individuals experience high energy, impulsivity, and euphoria) and depressive episodes (characterised by sadness, exhaustion, and hopelessness). The intensity and frequency of these episodes vary based on the type of bipolar disorder a person has.
Every year, March 30th is observed as World Bipolar Day to raise awareness and encourage understanding of bipolar disorder. This date was chosen to honour the birthday of Vincent van Gogh, the legendary artist who is believed to have had bipolar disorder. The condition is often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and stigma. This day highlights the importance of acceptance, early diagnosis, and better mental health support while working to reduce stigma and misconceptions.
Symptoms
Individuals experiencing this condition may go through alternating periods of depression and extreme euphoria (mania).
Symptoms of Depression:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, restlessness, or unexplained crying.
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
- Low self-esteem, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and a sense of inefficacy.
- Difficulty with memory and concentration.
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation.
- Waking up unusually early in the morning.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Various physical discomfort, including extreme fatigue, pain, reduced sexual desire, and Menstrual irregularities.
- Bowel irregularities.
Symptoms of Mania:
- Persistent excitement, extreme happiness, irritability, or anger.
- Speaking excessively, rapidly, and loudly.
- Inflated self-image, feeling powerful or delusions of grandeur.
- Difficulty concentrating. Racing thoughts and jumping quickly between topics.
- Hyperactivity, feeling physically and mentally energised.
- Reckless spending, impulsive shopping, or selling assets.
- Reduced need for sleep.
- Lack of awareness of the illness.
- Aggressive or destructive behaviour.
- Inappropriate or unusual behaviour.
- Increased libido and risky sexual behaviour.
- Substance abuse.
Treatment
A psychiatrist can diagnose and treat bipolar disorder effectively. With proper medical care and adherence to prescribed treatments, individuals can lead stable and fulfilling lives. In some cases, hospitalisation may be necessary. If left untreated, the condition can lead to severe consequences, including self-harm, harm to others, financial losses, or engagement in high-risk behaviours such as substance abuse.
How Family Can Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder
- Avoid unnecessary arguments with someone experiencing bipolar symptoms, as this may escalate their distress.
- Listen with empathy and without judgement, focusing on understanding not blame.
- Seek professional help from a psychiatrist as soon as possible. Bipolar disorder is a serious condition that requires regular medication. Do not be misled by misconceptions or fear surrounding treatment.
- Safeguard important financial assets such as bank accounts, credit cards, property deeds, and other valuables, as individuals with bipolar disorder may engage in impulsive financial decisions.
- Educating yourself about the condition helps you provide better support.
- Understand that marriage is not a cure for this condition. Ensure the disorder is well-managed before considering major life decisions.
- Supervise closely and keep medications secure due to potential risky behaviours.
- Enforce strict avoidance of substance use, as drugs can worsen symptoms and complicate treatment.
World Bipolar Day is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. By raising awareness and offering support, we can help individuals with bipolar disorder lead healthier and happier lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember: help is available, and no one has to face this alone.