What is Bipolar Disorder? Symptoms and Diagnosis
Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition that falls under mood disorders and is characterized by extreme fluctuations in a person's mood. This condition features a cycle where manic and depressive episodes occur alternately. During manic episodes, a person may feel extremely energetic, excited, and euphoric; while during depressive episodes, they may experience deep sadness, anxiety, and disinterest. In this article, we will discuss the definition, symptoms, and diagnostic processes of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary between manic and depressive periods. Each period has its own unique clinical indicators.
Symptoms of Manic Episodes
Excessive energy, activity, and feelings of excitement
Insomnia or reduced need for sleep
Rapid thinking and speaking (a continuous and fast flow of thoughts while sharing ideas)
Increased self-esteem or excessive pride
Extreme ideas and delusions (for example, feeling like a celebrity)
Thoughts and behaviors of self-harm or harm to others
Negative impacts on relationships and work life (social withdrawal or risky behaviors)
Symptoms of Depressive Episodes
Intense feelings of sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness
Lack of interest and reluctance towards daily activities
Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Changes in eating habits (hunger or lack of appetite)
Increased childhood anxiety or difficulty in concentration
Thoughts of self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder
The diagnosis of bipolar disorder should be made by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. This process typically consists of several stages:
Clinical Evaluation: The patient's medical history, family history, symptoms, and mood are observed. Individual interviews are conducted to understand their psychosocial situation.
Standard Tests: In some cases, the psychiatrist may use specific psychological tests and scales to assess the person's mood.
Diagnostic Criteria: Symptoms are evaluated with reference to diagnostic guidelines such as the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). These guidelines have specific diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder, such as experiencing at least one manic episode.
Once the diagnosis of bipolar disorder is confirmed, the appropriate treatment process begins. Specialists typically adopt a multifaceted approach to determine the most suitable treatment methods for the individual’s situation. In this process, methods such as medication, individual therapy, group therapies, and lifestyle changes may be utilized.
Conclusion
Bipolar disorder is a manageable condition in light of scientific research and clinical observations. However, it is crucial that the diagnosis and treatment process is conducted by professionals. If you or someone you know is suffering from this disorder, I strongly recommend seeking professional support. Remember that each individual's treatment process is different, and a personalized approach plays a critical role in the path to recovery.
