Bipolar FAQs (continued)
cont. from
Yes,
bipolar disorder tends to run in families. It is quite likely that
people with bipolar disorder have close relatives who also have bipolar disorder
or depressed moods.
Bipolar disorder is equally common in men and
women in the United States. The
first episode in men is usually a manic episode. Women are more likely to
experience depression as a first episode of their bipolar disorder.
Young people under the age of thirty (30) are at greater risk than older
people for developing bipolar disorder.
About one percent (1%) of the population has bipolar disorder.
A mental health professional makes a diagnosis of bipolar disorder by taking
a careful personal history from the client/patient. It is important to the
therapist to learn the details that surround any stressful event or events in
that person's life.
Most people with mania show hyperactivity in their thoughts, words, and
actions. They usually speak rapidly and are commonly over-talkative. The manic
phase of bipolar disorder, with its elevated or euphoric mood, usually begins
over a period of one to two weeks. Severe irritability may cause some people
with mania to experience and express rage quickly. If such a condition worsens,
that person can lose control and the mania can lead to psychotic thinking and
bizarre behavior.
No laboratory tests are required to make a diagnosis of bipolar disorder nor
are there any physical conditions that must be met. However, it is very
important not to overlook a physical illness that might mimic or contribute to
this psychological disorder. If there is any question that the individual might
have a physical problem, the mental health professional should recommend a
complete physical examination by a medical doctor. Laboratory tests might then
be necessary as a part of the physical workup.
The primary treatment for mania is medication. For decades the treatment of
choice for bipolar disorder has been lithium which helps to control the mood
fluctuations. In the last few years, however, medicines like
Depakote
(divalproex) or Tegretol (carbamazepine) have also been used quite successfully
to stabilize mood. Antipsychotic medication is used to control severe mania.
The careful use of antidepressants can sometimes help to counteract the
depression associated with bipolar disorder.
Individual, family, or group psychotherapy can help a person with bipolar
disorder and his/her family learn to cope with this illness.
Although most individuals who experience a manic episode return to full
functioning, they remain at risk for recurrent episodes of mania. Medicines like
lithium,
Depakote, or
Tegretol may be used long term to help to prevent the
recurrent episodes of mania and/or depression. Usually, the severity of the
manic and depressive cycles lessens with increased age.
If you, a friend, or a family member would like more information and you have
a therapist or a physician, please discuss your concerns with that person.
How can you help someone with bipolar disorder who does not want treatment?
About 50% of patients with acute mania do not realize that they are
experiencing manic symptoms. Family members may benefit from joining
organizations like NAMI and MDDA to educate themselves and the individual who
may have bipolar disorder. Talking to others with bipolar disorder who have
experienced the same issues and benefited from treatment can be quite helpful.
Individuals should be encouraged to see a psychiatrist or other mental health
professional to ask questions about mania and bipolar disorder and to respond to
their doubts and concerns about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
next:
APA Guidelines for Treating Bipolar
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send to friend . bipolar site map
Reviewed: 04/2006
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