Spotlight on Bipolar Disorder in Adults

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Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.6 percent of all us adults, and the overwhelming majority of those with bipolar disorder also have a co-occurring substance use disorder, reports the National Institute of Mental Illness. Unfortunately , most do not understand how bipolar disorder relates to substance abuse, nor do people understand how bipolar disorder can actually make substance abuse worse and vice versa. Although addiction treatment non 12-step programs can help, a greater understanding of this disorder is needed.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

How many different types of bipolar disorder, and each type of bipolar disorder refers to how quickly Manic and depressive episode symptoms of here. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the five most common types of bipolar disorder include the following:

  • Bipolar I – this type of bipolar disorder is classified and characterized by manic or mixed episodes that have it lasted for a period of at least one week. Additionally, bipolar I may be diagnosed if a person exhibits manic symptoms that hair so severe quotation marks if they require immediate hospital care. For example, someone with bipolar disorder who is experiencing paranoid delusions or severe hallucinations may require immediate Hospital intervention. Additionally, depressive episodes may be the defining point in a bipolar I diagnosis, which refers to depressive symptoms that last at least 2 weeks.
  • Bipolar II – in bipolar II, a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes up here. I have a manic episode is not a full-blown manic episode, but it does involve the characteristics of a manic episode. For example, I have a manic episode may include periods of insomnia, difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping, changes and usual thought processes, and even over exaggerated gestures and actions.
  • Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified – bipolar disorder not otherwise specified is used by clinicians to diagnose someone with bipolar disorder that does not fall into any of the other categories of a bipolar disorder diagnosis. For example, someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder do not meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar I or bipolar II, but symptoms of bipolar disorder are clearly exhibited. For example, persistent depression and bouts of mania may occur, but it does not follow a typical pattern.
  • Cyclothymic disorder – cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder, and those with cyclothymia may experience hypomania symptoms and Mild depression for a period of at least two weeks. However, the key difference between cyclothymic disorder and bipolar disorder not otherwise specified rests in that cyclothymic disorder rests on how cyclothymic disorder tends to be mild, while bipolar disorder not otherwise specified may actually include full-blown Mania.
  • Rapid Cycling bipolar disorder – Rapid Cycling bipolar disorder refers to the prevalence of a bipolar disorder that is characterized by the presence of at least four or more significant periods of major depression, mania, hypomania, or a mix of any of the above. However, Rapid Cycling disorder may result in more than four episodes within a year.

The causes of bipolar disorder vary but environmental genetics play major factors in the development of bipolar disorder. Environmental factors, such as exposure to substance abuse, hostile environments, and other negative settings, may result in depressive symptoms, which could lead to a break and manifestation of an episode. As a result, addiction treatment non 12-step programs may be required for those with bipolar disorder and co-occurring substance abuse issues.

Symptoms of mania from bipolar disorder include the following:

  • An overly happy mood.
  • Severe irritability.
  • Talking very fast.
  • Becoming easily distracted.
  • Interesting activities.
  • Extreme restlessness.
  • Unusual changes in sleep habits.
  • Unrealistic beliefs and one’s abilities.
  • Moving or behaving impulsively.
  • The symptoms of a depressive episode from bipolar disorder include the following
  • Extended periods of intense sadness or hopelessness.
  • A loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities.

The behavioral symptoms of depression during bipolar disorder mimic the symptoms of major depression. The symptoms may include having difficulty concentrating, feeling restless or irritable, changes in eating, sleeping, and other habitual activities, and suicidal thoughts or actions.

Please note. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a medical emergency and requires immediate medical intervention. If anyone expresses thoughts of harming oneself or another person, go to the nearest emergency department or call 911 immediately.

Bipolar Disorder and Drug Abuse

Those with bipolar disorder may also have an increased tendency to abuse drugs or alcohol, especially if the symptoms of bipolar disorder result in abstinence from taking one’s medications. In other words, a person with bipolar disorder may suddenly switch episodes and stop taking his or her prescribed medications. As a result, family members and friends of those with bipolar disorder need to be extra vigilant for the presence of substance abuse signs. Furthermore, an addiction recovery program non 12-step often includes outpatient treatment after discharge to ensure all medications are taken appropriately.
Bipolar disorder represents one of the other major medical or and mental illnesses in the US, and unfortunately, many of those with bipolar disorder often demonized and stereotyped period but understanding the different types of bipolar disorder, it’s signs and symptoms, and how it relates to substance abuse, those with family members or friends with bipolar disorder can help make sure proper treatment is salt and of here too.

Sudhir Singh on Email
Sudhir Singh
I am a passionate health and wellness writer. I enjoy skiing, yoga, workout, searching for the perfect wine and chocolate combination, and spending time with friends.