Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Disorder)

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that can be seen in children and mostly adults with two extreme conditions. Bipolar individuals, whose moods fluctuate at extremes, experience periods of depression in which they are depressed and unhappy and manic episodes in which they are more cheerful, active or furious than usual. 




 

Symptoms

A typical depression period is characterized by depression-specific symptoms such as unhappiness, grief, exhaustion, pessimism. The other end, referred to as the manic period, corresponds to a delirious mood. In the manic period, the person feels more energetic, vigorous and self-confident. The rate of their speech significantly increases, they have racing thoughts, and may be inclined to engage in excessive spending or high-risk activities without thinking. For example, making business investments without thought, having risky sexual intercourses, sudden and great changes in life can be seen. Frequent changes in sleep patterns are heralds of manic episodes. 

In this period, there is a significant decrease in the need for sleep, and not having insomnia despite getting very little sleep is observed. In parallel with the increase in self-confidence, significant increases are observed in the plans, projects and activities of the individuals in the manic period. Examples such as being interested in jobs they have never done to that day, writing books and commercial initiatives are some of these increases. In some cases, in manic individuals, 'grandiose thoughts', which means that they see themselves as special and superior to other people, accompany the clinical picture. The person can perceive himself/herself as a president or savior.

Although this increase in mood is generally not perceived as a problem by manic people, this disorder may lead to serious losses resulting in death if not treated, due to the tendency to take risks. In addition, as in the case of other mental disorders, bipolar disorder may also affect the functioning of the individual in various areas and cause him/her to incur losses.
 

Treatment 

Sometimes the manic period may be shorter and lighter. Periods and frequency of periods may vary. Therefore, there are several sub-types of bipolar disorder. Since it is a disorder with strong biological aspect, after the correct diagnosis is made, treatment should definitely be arranged by a psychiatrist. Combining the treatment protocol, including measurement of blood values, with psychotherapy plays a key role in enabling individuals to manage bipolar disorder and regain their functionality.

Liv Hospital Psychiatry Clinic, which consists of clinical psychologists and psychiatrists specializing in their fields, successfully applies bipolar disorder treatment.