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Unlike depression and other forms of mental health problems, bipolar disorder is not as well known. It is one of the group of conditions called depressive disorders. Also known as manic depression it affects approximately six million adults i the USA.
Bipolar disorder can have a major disruptive impact on the life of the affected person as well as those connected to them. The condition results in sudden mood swings and erratic behavior. The cause of bipolar disorder is not fully known. There is some belief that there may be a genetic link. Stress is also a trigger for the onset of the condition. In many cases, it is a combination of both factors that result in someone having a depressive episode.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are four main types of this condition, namely:
1. Bipolar I
This stage can see someone move through various mood swings. During the manic stage, sufferers will do irrational things such as unexpectedly resigning from their work or sink into a dark depression. Interestingly, during this phase, they can also show signs of extreme happiness and tend to have lots of energy.
2. Bipolar II
Depression is a common sign of this type of the condition. The person becomes very sad and may hardly be able to get out of bed to go about their daily activities.
3. Cyclothmic Disorder or hypomania
The mood changes are less obvious in this type of bipolar depression. Persons at this level are generally able to function normally.
4. Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified or Mixed Bipolar Disorder
Both depression and mania are symptoms observed together hence the name, mixed bipolar disorder.
Since different people have different types of the condition, treatment options are best determined after proper assessment. Treatment tends to be long-term and involves a combination of options. These include medication, counseling and changes to the person’s way of life.