What it means to be ‘bipolar’
World Bipolar Day is celebrated today (30 March) and it aims to create awareness about the disorder.
POLOKWANE – Bipolar is a mental disorder which is characterised by extreme shifts in mood. These mood shifts are accompanied by fluctuations in energy and activity levels and these moods do not change within seconds, but gradually over time.
Review spoke with a local Clinical Psychologist, Zelda Buitendag, about this disorder.
“The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) distinguishes between bipolar I and bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I is characterised by a least one manic episode or mixed episode, which has manic and depressive features in the same episode, while bipolar II disorder is characterised by one or more major depressive episodes, together with at least one hypomanic episode,” Buitendag explained.
While both bipolar I and II diagnoses require the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes, only bipolar II requires the presence of a major depressive episode. During these abnormal shifts, the patient commonly finds it difficult to complete everyday tasks.
Bipolar disorder is treated with three main classes of medication, namely mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants.
Treatment entails a combination of at least one mood-stabilising drug and or atypical antipsychotic drug, plus psychotherapy.
“The family of the patient should be involved with the treatment. When they are fully informed about the problem and its manifestations, they will be able to assist their loved one better.
She said light therapy has proved effective as an additional treatment when bipolar disorder has a connection to seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
“If someone you live with has bipolar disorder, maintain a calm environment, particularly when that person is in a manic phase. Keep to regular routines for daily activities like sleeping, eating, and exercise. Enough sleep is very important in preventing the onset of episodes,” Buitendag explained.
During a manic phase, patients may engage in risky activities like fast driving, help them to stay safe. Drinks and foods containing caffeine should be allowed in moderation and avoid alcohol at all times.
“Being diagnosed as bipolar is not a death sentence and people who are bipolar can live normal lives,” Buitendag concluded.
