A condition involving episodes of extreme high and low mood that can profoundly affect energy, behaviour, and judgement.
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WHAT IS IT?

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Bipolar Affective Disorder is a mood disorder characterised by significant fluctuations between episodes of depression and episodes of elevated or irritable mood (known as mania or hypomania). It affects approximately 1-2% of the population and usually emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, though it is often not diagnosed correctly for many years.

Bipolar disorder is not simply mood swings, it involves distinct episodes that can last days, weeks, or months, representing a marked change from the person's usual self. During a depressive episode a person may be unable to function; during a manic episode they may feel invincible and behave quite out of character. Both extremes carry significant risks and require careful management.

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WHAT MIGHT YOU NOTICE?

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In a depressive episode, the symptoms closely resemble those of major depression, low mood, loss of energy and motivation, poor sleep, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness. Suicidal thoughts are not uncommon during depressive phases and should always be taken seriously.

In a manic or hypomanic episode, the person may feel unusually euphoric, energised, or irritable, sleep very little without feeling tired, and have racing thoughts. Judgement is often impaired leading to impulsive decisions around money, relationships, or work. In full mania, insight is often lost and psychotic symptoms can occur.

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Common symptoms include:

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Episodes of elated, expansive or irritable mood
Markedly decreased need for sleep
Racing thoughts and flight of ideas
Rapid or pressured speech
Impulsive or reckless behaviour
Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem
Depressive episodes with profound low mood
Loss of energy and motivation
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Significant changes in appetite and weight

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WHICH TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILIBLE?​

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Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition that requires ongoing management, but with the right treatment, most people lead stable and fulfilling lives. The goals of treatment are to treat acute episodes effectively, prevent future episodes, and support overall health and wellbeing.

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Mood Stabilisers:  Medications such as lithium, valproate, and lamotrigine are the cornerstone of bipolar management, reducing the frequency and severity of both manic and depressive episodes.

Antipsychotic Medication:  Atypical antipsychotics are effective in treating acute manic episodes and are used as maintenance treatments in some people with bipolar disorder.

Psychological Therapy:  Therapy helps with mood monitoring, identifying early warning signs of episodes, building healthy routines, and addressing the psychological impact of living with a fluctuating condition.

Lifestyle & Relapse Prevention:  Regular sleep, consistent routine, avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, and stress management all play an important role in maintaining stability and preventing relapse.