Causes and Symptoms Summary:

Causes of bipolar disorder are not exactly known, but there is much speculation that it is heavily involved with genetics. Bipolar patients have also been known in many cases to have suffered childhood abuse and/or trauma, which triggers the manic and depressive episodes. Symptoms for bipolar disorder are varied and depend on the individual, but in general, they are divided into manic and hypomanic episodes, and depressive and mixed episodes. Some people will have more of one type of episode and some people really do vacillate back and forth equally between both.

Treatment Summary:

There are several treatments for bipolar disorder, but one of the most common is medication, specifically lithium. Lithium has proven to be effective at reducing symptoms, but there are side effects, especially the higher the dosage. Anticonvulsant mood stabilizers work well for mania and have few side effects, but aren’t so effective at treating depression, and so are often taken in tandem with anti-depressants. Psychotherapy and alternative treatments (like yoga or acupuncture) have been shown to be effective when taken with medication.

Triggers for Bipolar Disorder:

Know the common triggers for bipolar disorder. You will have to discover your own individual triggers as the disorder continues, but in the meantime, try to avoid the general ones. Stress is probably the largest one—sudden or drastic change can bring it on. Substance abuse is not a cause of bipolar disorder, but it can definitely trigger an episode. Certain medications should be avoided if possible, as they too can potentially trigger an episode. Seasonal  change can bring about episodes, especially if you live in a volatile climate. Sleep deprivation can also trigger manic episodes.

Education on Bipolar Disorder:

If you are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is important that you understand the illness and how it works, especially in your individual case. The best way to manage your illness is to know all about it. Monitor your moods and keep track of your symptoms so that you can anticipate episodes. Make sure that you have a strong support network, and educate them about bipolar disorder. Make smart choices for yourself—a healthy, an exercise regimen, and plenty of sleep will help you keep your symptoms in check.

Bipolar Disorder and Suicide:

One of the biggest risks of bipolar disorder is suicide. The depression phase of bipolar disorder can be epic in its scope. People with bipolar depression are actually more likely to commit suicide than people with regular depression. Also, they have a larger success rate. Rate of suicide is higher in those who tend toward the depressive side as opposed to the manic side of bipolar, as well. If there is a family history of suicide, or if bipolar disorder manifests itself early in age, the risk factor goes up. And, not surprisingly, if there is a history of drugs or alcohol, risk in bipolar disorder is also raised.