Bipolar disorder is an abnormal syndrome of the brain characterized by unstable emotional changes. Individuals affected by this syndrome can rapidly switch their moods from excitement to depression and vice versa.
Key Facts About Bipolar Disorder
According to Dr. Nguyen Doan Phuong from the Institute of Mental Health at Bach Mai Hospital, bipolar disorder is a mental illness. In modern society, the incidence of bipolar disorder is increasing, particularly among individuals frequently involved in the entertainment industry, where this condition is not uncommon.
When experiencing bipolar disorder, you may feel euphoric, full of energy, or unusually irritable. Such mood swings can affect sleep, energy levels, activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly.
Statistics from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) indicate that bipolar disorder affects approximately 5.7 million American adults, representing about 2.6% of the U.S. population. Individuals with bipolar disorder exhibit varying symptoms as each person may be in a different phase.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
For Those in a Manic Phase
Signs and symptoms of a manic phase include:
- Excessive happiness, hope, or excitement.
- Sudden and severe mood changes, such as shifting from joy to anger or hatred.
- Restlessness.
- Rapid speech.
- Constant high energy, requiring less sleep.
- Increased impulsivity and poor judgment, such as quitting a job suddenly.
- Grandiose plans that are unattainable.
- Risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, unsafe sexual practices without protection, etc.
- Feeling unusually important, talented, or powerful.
- Hallucinations or delusions.
Most individuals experiencing a manic phase are unaware of the negative consequences of their actions. For those with bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts can often be a persistent danger.
For Those with Hypomania
During a hypomanic phase, you may feel very good and believe you can accomplish many tasks. Individuals with hypomania often perform well in social situations or at work.
You may not perceive anything unusual during a hypomanic phase. However, family and friends may notice changes in your mood and activity levels, considering them abnormal. Following a hypomanic episode, you may experience severe depression.
For Those Experiencing Depression
- Overwhelming sadness.
- Constant low energy and fatigue.
- Lack of motivation.
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
- Loss of joy in things that once brought happiness.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
- Uncontrolled crying.
- Irritability.
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping.
- Changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or loss.
- Thoughts of death or suicide (with suicidal intent).
If you are having suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help from loved ones or immediate medical attention.
The main cause of bipolar disorder remains a mystery.
Causes of Bipolar Disorder
The primary causes of bipolar disorder remain a significant question within the medical community. Current studies indicate that individuals with this syndrome may share certain common characteristics:
- Biochemical imbalances in the brain, particularly in systems such as serotonin.
- Genetic inheritance from family: This is also a major cause of mental and neurological disorders, including emotional disorders.
- Strong psychological impacts: Not all influencing factors stem from the present; many patients may experience psychological trauma in the past, yet the syndrome may linger inconspicuously until triggered by a similar event.
Damage to the neural transmission system: Currently, most patients with emotional disorders or depression exhibit various types of damage to the neural transmission system.
Who Does Bipolar Disorder Affect?
Experts suggest that bipolar disorder can affect anyone. The average onset age is 25, but it is rare. Typically, it can begin as early as childhood or as late as the ages of 40 to 50.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there is currently no way to prevent or stop bipolar disorder, as the exact causes have not been identified. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder and to seek early intervention.
