Understand what bipolar disorder is and how to treat it

Bipolar affective disorder, also known as bipolarity, is a psychiatric disorder that is characterized by episodes of mood swings, varying mainly between depressive and manic states (also called euphoria phases). “Depression can be subtle and states of mania usually involve irritability and anger”, explains psychologist Daniela de Oliveira.

Symptoms of bipolar affective disorder

In general, the symptoms of bipolar affective disorder vary from person to person. However, according to Daniela de Oliveira, the main signs of depressive episodes are: sadness, melancholy, anguish, indecision, anxiety, lack of perspective, decreased concentration, apathy and pessimistic thinking. The signs of manic states are related to accelerated thinking, distraction, mental confusion, insomnia and irritability.

Signs to identify the disorder early

Although not a rule, at first, bipolar affective disorder can also be identified through some symptoms. According to psychologist Shana Eleve, they are: irritability, lack of attention, increased anxietydepressive mood, emotional lability and worse professional or academic performance.

“An important recommendation is to always be aware ofaffective changes in sleep and in behaviors that are persistent, and that, even slightly, begin to impair social and occupational performance. Not that it means a diagnosis of bipolarity, but these situations can lead the person to seek professional help sooner”, guides the psychologist.

Types of bipolar disorders

Although bipolarity usually presents the characteristics and symptoms mentioned above, this psychiatric problem can be divided into three types: Bipolar Affective Disorder Type 1, Bipolar Affective Disorder Type 2 and Cyclothymic Disorder.

Psychologist Daniela de Oliveira clarifies that type 1 may or may not accompany depressive episodes and present changes in mood and states of mania, mainly involving irritability. Type 2, in turn, also includes temperamental fluctuations, but the depressive signs are more persistent. Cyclothymic Disorder is characterized by severe depression and hypomanic situations (milder disorder than mania).

Causes of psychiatric illness

As with many other psychiatric disorders, bipolarity also does not occur due to a specific reason, but rather due to a combination of factors. “We believe that genetic aspects associated with an unfavorable environment, that is, a hostile environment, in which love and respect are not priorities, are decisive for triggering the disorder”, comments psychologist Sirlene Ferreira.

Use of alcohol and chemical substances

Psychologist Shana Eleve reveals that patients with bipolar disorder tend to make greater use of alcohol and illicit drugs. “In addition, alcohol and other drugs can intensify the symptoms of bipolar disorder. However, it is not possible to say that someone developed the disorder because of having used a substance. Overall, it’s a complex relationship,” she says.

Bipolar disorder and other health problems

Besides thedifficulty in relationships personal and professional, bipolar affective disorder is also capable of causing physical illness. Problems with the thyroid, migraines, heart disorders, obesity, diabetes, among other illnesses, according to psychologist Sirlene Ferreira, can be symptoms of a psychiatric disorder.

Even, according to psychologist Shana Eleve, bipolarity may be associated with other comorbidities, such as anxiety disorder, personality disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder

Currently, there is no exam or laboratory test that identifies bipolar affective disorder. As the psychiatrist Philipe Diniz explains, this disorder can only be diagnosed through clinical criteria.

“We have a series of parameters to identify the two oscillations of bipolarity, that is, the depressive and the manic. When we reach a minimum number of symptoms for each condition, it is possible to get closer to the result”, adds the doctor.

Bipolar disorder treatment

Bipolar affective disorder has no cure. However, there are treatmentsthat can control the disease. In most cases, treatment usually follows three stages: medication, psychotherapy and psychoeducation. Philipe Diniz explains that medication is used throughout life. In addition, according to experts, the psychotherapy and psychoeducation will help the patient to deal with difficulties and provide greater knowledge about himself and the disorder itself.

Main benefits of treatment

Treatment for bipolar affective disorder offers numerous benefits to the patient’s life. Psychologists Daniela de Oliveira and Shana Eleve agree that the main advantages involve the reduction of symptoms, especially mood swings, in addition to improving daily activities and maintaining professional and personal relationships.

Importance of the support network

During treatment for bipolar disorder, the support network is essential. In this case, the understanding and care of friends and family is of utmost importance. “As with any disorder, you need to be patient and supportive, as the person is in a state of suffering, with dysfunctional emotional responses. It is also important to avoid judgments, as they can cause further distress. Also, you shouldn’t blame the person for the disease, think it’s something irrelevant or try to find easy answers “, advises psychologist Shana Eleve.