Bipolar Spectrum Disorder

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Bipolar Awareness Day

26 May 2019

 

What is Bipolar Spectrum Disorder?
Three to four percent of South Africans have Bipolar. Bipolar disorder is more than just a simple mood swing. Bipolar is when one experiences a sudden, dramatic shift in the most extreme emotions. These shifts are not self induced, just a few hiccups in the brain. In the manic or “high” phase of the illness you aren’t just happy, you are ecstatic. A great burst of energy can be followed by a severe depression, which is the “low” phase of the disease. Periods of fairly normal moods can be experienced between cycles, which are different for different people. They can last for days, weeks, or even months. Bipolar disorder can be disabling, but it also responds well to treatment. Many other diseases can present themselves as bipolar disorder, so it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. 

This spectrum covers four nerobehavioural conditions namely Bipolar I, II, Cyclothymic disorder and Bipolar Disorder otherwise not specified. Bipolar I is characterised by long periods of mania (great excitement or euphoria), which are followed by depressive episodes and psychosis (loss od contact with reality). Bipolar II characterised by less extreme mania when compared to Bipolar I also called Hypomania (lasts for a few days or hours), chances of having normal moods are present too, depressive episodes are present. Cyclothymic disorder is a mild experience of  Bipolar, moods are not extreme. And lastly Bipolar Disorder otherwise not specified is for those who experience different encounters that cannot be within the first three categories of the spectrum (the misfits of the spectrum).

Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be a resultant of chemical imbalances in the brain. Chemicals (Biologically termed Hormones) that are responsible for controling the brain's functions are called neurotransmitters.   The following hormones noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine  are believed to be the major causes of the disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterised by experiencing extreme moods, therefore it is plausible to attribute its start to depression. Bipolar can last from a week to two which brings a monstrous need and importance for one to get help as soon as they can. And yes, it is racially blind! Bipolar can only be diagnosed by a PG or a mental health professional. Medicine,therapy and self-help strategies can help treat the disorder. Since it is a moody condition, diagnosis takes time (moods need to be monitored over weeks or months).

If you can relate to some of the signs and symptoms described above, don't self diagnose!  Make sure you seek help. The good news is that bipolar disorder can be managed with the right treatment and support!

For help Call for FREE: 0800 70 80 90 

Or for more information visit:http://www.sadag.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47:3-4-of-south-africans-have-bipolar-disorder&catid=57&Itemid=149

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