Bipolar disorder (formerly Manic-depressive disorder ) is a mental disorder characterized by mood swings. Usually, a person is in a normal state between bouts of mood swings.    

The term “Mania” is used when a person is in an agitated state and feels self-confident. This state is replaced by a feeling of irritability, anger, anger. The word “Depression” describes the state of depression and sadness of the patient. Sometimes the patient is misdiagnosed as “depression” because manic disorder has similar symptoms, sadness and depression.     

What causes bipolar disorder

The main causes of bipolar disorder are genetic predisposition, changes in the chemical elements of the brain, as well as stress, important changes and events in life. Research is being conducted to establish the link between the causes and occurrence of bipolar disorder. Injuries and diseases of the brain, nervous tension and properties of a person’s character can also affect the development of the disease .           

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

In bipolar disorder, a person may experience an attack of one phase several times, then an attack of the opposite phase of mood may develop.

Signs of mania are:

• Excessive feelings of happiness, optimism, and excitement. 
• A sharp change from a good state to irritability and anger  
• Difficulty concentrating . 
• Increased energy and decreased need for sleep.  
• Increased sex drive. 
• Compilation of impossible tasks.
• Making rash decisions
• Abuse of alcohol or drugs.  
• impulsiveness.

By the symptoms of depression include: 

• Sadness.
• Prostration.
• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. 
• Loss of interest in your favorite activities. 
• Inability to concentrate.
• Tearfulness.
• Difficult to make a decision.
• Irritability.
• Increased need for sleep. 
• Insomnia or hypersomnia 
• Weight loss or gain

Bipolar disorder affects both men and women. However, women suffer from more frequent bouts of mood swings. In contrast to men, women are more prone to depression.    

Treatment for bipolar disorder

For bipolar disorder, a psychotherapist should be consulted. Treatment takes place in several stages. A person is prescribed drugs, the selection of which is made individually. With increased excitability, sedatives are prescribed, with physical or mental inhibition – drugs that stimulate activity. Bipolar disorder is a difficult disease to treat. It is characterized by relapses, so treatment by a highly qualified specialist is necessary .