What is bipolar disorder? Continued

As I said in my earlier post, bipolar disorder commonly runs in families. Environmental factors such as stress, sleep disruption, and drugs and alcohol may trigger mood episodes in vulnerable people. Though the specific causes of bipolar disorder within the brain are unclear, and in balance of brain chemicals is believed to lead to dysregulated brain activity. Let's talk a little bit more about bipolar 1 disorder.

People with bipolar one disorder frequently have other mental illnesses such as anxiety, substance use issues, and or ADHD. It may be noted that the risk of suicide is significantly higher among people with bipolar one disorder then among the general population.

Bipolar 1 disorder is diagnosed when a person experiences a manic episode. During a manic episode, people with bipolar 1 disorder experience an extreme increase in energy and may feel on top of the world or uncomfortably irritable mood. Some people with bipolar one disorder also experience depressive or hypomanic episodes, and most people with bipolar one disorder also have periods of neutral mood. In my next post I will talk about the symptoms of bipolar manic episode. Please remember that when treated, people with bipolar disorder can lead full and productive lives.

You can reach out to my office if  you would like to be evaluated for symptoms that are concerning to you.