Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness with a variety of symptoms. While no one single cause has been identified, certain people may be genetically predisposed to the disorder. Despite this, not everyone with this inherited vulnerability will suffer from this disorder. There are several physical changes that researchers have documented in the brains of people with this disorder, including abnormal levels of cortisol and neurotransmitters. In addition, bipolar disorder can be triggered by certain environmental and psychological factors. These triggers can initiate new episodes of depression or mania or worsen existing symptoms. However, many episodes of bipolar disorder occur without obvious triggers.

Symptoms

Bipolar disorder is a condition in which people experience periods of intense emotion. They also exhibit changes in their sleeping and activity patterns. Additionally, they have uncharacteristic behaviors. Their mood episodes are distinct from their normal moods and last for many days. Bipolar disorder also affects a person's social life. Some people with the disorder feel depressed and energized while others have mixed moods.

People with bipolar disorder may use drugs and engage in high-risk behaviors during their manic episodes. These behaviors can affect their families and friends. In addition, they may have eating disorders. Researchers are still trying to find the exact cause of the disorder, but it is generally agreed that many factors increase the risk of developing the disorder.

Causes

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is caused by imbalances in the brain's chemicals, or neurotransmitters. The levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain increase during the manic phase, and decrease during the depressive phase. Hormones also play a role in the condition. The important hormone thyroxin helps regulate moods. There are various risk factors for bipolar disorder, including stopping medication and not following doctor's orders.

Among the most effective preventative measures are establishing a regular sleep schedule and following a healthy diet. In addition, patients should also monitor their moods closely. People with bipolar disorder should be especially vigilant about their health, and should not ignore any signs of mood swings. Another significant risk factor for patients with this illness is suicide. People with bipolar disorder are much more likely to commit suicide than those who have depression without bipolar symptoms.

Treatment options

Psychotherapy is one of the most common treatment options for bipolar disorder. It focuses on developing routines and thought processes to help people learn how to regulate their emotions and biological processes. It can also help people develop better relationships and reduce the risk of relapse. In addition to psychotherapy, there are other treatments available to help manage symptoms.

For people who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it's important to seek ongoing treatment to help them stay stable. For example, taking mood stabilizers can help stabilize moods and avoid mania or depression episodes. In addition to medications, psychotherapy can help patients identify triggers, improve interpersonal skills, and learn to recognize negative patterns.

Genetics

Recent studies have revealed that people with bipolar disorder have a higher risk for some genetic variants. However, the underlying genetic mechanism is complex. Researchers are currently using candidate gene approaches to unravel the genetic basis of bipolar disorder. They have identified several regions of interest in bipolar disorder, including 21q22, Xq24-q26, and chromosome 18.

There is no single gene that is responsible for the development of bipolar disorder. However, genetic factors have been found to account for 60 to 80 percent of the risk of bipolar disorder. Although having relatives with the disease increases the likelihood of developing the condition, it is not a guarantee. Other risk factors are also thought to contribute to the disorder. These include subtle differences in brain size and activity. In addition, traumatic head injuries may increase the risk of developing the disorder.

Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy

The basic premise behind interpersonal and social rhythm therapy is the concept that changes in our daily routines affect our mood. Our circadian rhythms are affected by sleep, social interactions, and our daily schedules. Social rhythm therapy can help individuals regulate their mood by creating structure around daily activities and adherence to medications.

IPSRT helps people regulate their own daily rhythms by focusing on the emotional, social, and cognitive aspects of their lives. This approach can help individuals deal with past trauma and improve their relationships with others. It can also help individuals manage their symptoms and prevent relapse. It was developed by Ellen Frank, who has published a book on her theories.

IPSRT involves a weekly or biweekly visit with the therapist. These sessions are used to reinforce the techniques taught in treatment. Patients also work on improving their interpersonal relationships and maintaining a positive social rhythm. The initial sessions will last for one to four weeks. Later, the sessions will be reduced to once every two weeks or months.