The Meaning of Bipolar Disorder: What You Need to Know

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that significantly impacts a person's day-to-day interactions, behaviors, mood, thoughts, energy, and ability to focus. In this article, we'll explore the different types of bipolar disorder, their symptoms, and how they affect individuals, while also delving into treatment options and related conditions.

What Does Bipolar Mean?

The term "bipolar" literally means "two poles," highlighting the extreme ends of the mood spectrum that individuals with this disorder experience. The symptoms can range from the highs of mania to the lows of depression. This fluctuation between two opposite states is central to the understanding of bipolar disorder.

Manic Symptoms:

• Unusually high energy
• Talkativeness
• Distractibility
• Decreased need for sleep1

Depressive Symptoms:

• Extreme sadness
• Lack of energy
• Lack of emotions or motivation
• Feelings of hopelessness and guilt¹

These alternating phases of mania and depression demonstrate the "bi" in bipolar, underscoring the shifts between two distinct and opposite mood states.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is categorized into three types: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder (also known as cyclothymia). All three types involve episodes of mania, depression, or both. However, the onset and severity of these symptoms can vary among the different types.²

Bipolar I Disorder

Typically beginning in late teens, bipolar I disorder involves manic episodes lasting at least seven days. These episodes can be severe enough to necessitate hospitalization. Individuals may also experience major depressive episodes, although some may only experience mania without accompanying depression.³

Bipolar II Disorder

This type of bipolar involves episodes of major depression and hypomania. Hypomania includes the same symptoms as mania but is less severe and only lasts up to four days.³

Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)

Cyclothymia can start as early as age six and may progress to bipolar I or II. Individuals with cyclothymic disorder experience hypomanic and depressive symptoms, but not to the extent that they are classified as mania or major depression.³

Causes and Co-Occurring Conditions

There is no single cause of bipolar disorder. However, research suggests it may be influenced by various factors such as genetics, environment, and brain structure. Additionally, people with bipolar disorder often have other mental health diagnoses, including psychosis, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, or substance and alcohol use disorders.¹

Treatment Options

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with appropriate treatment, individuals can manage and reduce their symptoms. Treatment usually includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. It’s important to be patient and consistent with treatment to improve and maintain a healthy life.

If you or someone you know has bipolar disorder, seeking help from a licensed mental health professional is essential. By understanding bipolar disorder and its complexities, we can approach care with empathy and support, fostering a conducive environment to obtain needed treatment and improve overall well-being.

Sources:

1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Bipolar Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder
2. Medline Plus. (2019). Bipolar Disorder. Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/bipolardisorder.html
3. Marzani, G., & Neff, A. P. (2021). Bipolar Disorders: Evaluation and Treatment. American Family Physician, 103(4), 227–239. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0215/p227.html