Bipolar Disorder I
Hi welcome to Talking with Donna, I am glad you are able to join me. So, far I have shared 3 forms of the depressive disorder series (Depression, Major Depression and Persistent Depressive disorders). If you remember when we started, I said there were several types and subtypes. Today I will be sharing with you information concerning bipolar I disorder. This is part one of bipolar I disorder series.
(*. Disclaimer:If you or anyone you know are challenged with mental health challenges, please seek professional mental health services. This information is not for replacement of diagnosing or a substitute for treatment or therapy. This information is for educational purposes only. *)
Because there is a lot of information with bipolar disorder and the various types, I will be posting information concerning this disorder during the coming weeks of November. Today will will look at the following information:
* What Form are we discussing today
* Another name for it (if it has one)
* What it is
* Characteristics of the persistent depressive disorder
What Form are we discussing today
We are looking at bipolar disorder I and in my past information I have not included any historical information (or if I did it was limited) concerning this challenge, I looked high and low even in my 30ty year notes (ok they are not that old, but they are dated, so if you are interested in this bit of information, please research it as again it’s s dated), and I was interested in it…. with that being said. Bipolar disorder was recognized in the 19th century, although it is noted that ancient peoples described symptoms resembling manic and depressive states.
Manic Depressive Disorder term was used historically and described a condition in which individuals experienced periods of extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression). It emphasizes the mood swings between these two extremes.Bipolar Disorder term became more widely accepted and used in the latter part of the 20th century. It reflects the understanding that there are “two poles” or distinct mood states – mania (or hypomania) and depression – in this disorder.
In modern psychiatric terminology, “bipolar disorder” is the preferred and more commonly used term to describe the condition. It also encompasses several types of bipolar disorders, such as Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder, each has its own set of diagnostic criteria. These different types specify the nature and duration of manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes to provide a more precise diagnosis and guides for treatment.
Another name for it (if it has one)
In the 19th century the disease was termed “manic-depressive illness” by a German psychiatrist names Fmil Kraepelin. In the 20th century it was changed to the name it currently has as a shift from manic-depressive to bipolar disorder as a result if evolving psychiatric understanding and diagnostic criteria.
What it is
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme and unpredictable mood swings. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania (extreme highs) and depression (extreme lows). Although there are different types of bipolar disorder, we will only focus on Bipolar I at this time. The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully known, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.
It has a biological basis, and abnormalities in brain structure and function are often observed.
Characteristics of Bipolar disorder I
Bipolar I disorder is characterized by the individual experiencing at least one manic episode. There is a period of elevated, irritable and/or expansive (widespread) mood. During this time the individual may also experience high levels of activity or/and energy. The symptoms maybe so severe it will impair important areas in their life and may require hospitalization. The depressive episodes are not required for a diagnosis, and it can be part of the episodes. The depressive episodes can involve feelings of hopelessness, extreme sadness, the loss of pleasure or interest in activities. The symptoms may include cycling which is experiencing both mania followed by depressive episodes. The person can also experience stable periods in between.
It’s essential for individuals with Bipolar I and their loved ones to seek professional help and develop strategies to address these challenges.
Join me next week for a new topic in our bipolar disorder I series, were we will continue our discussion and on to Bipolar II and then under this umbrella we will end this series with Cyclothymic Disorder. Next week we will follow with:
* What are some of the challenges people affected with this dis-ease face?
*What can individuals do to offset symptoms of Bipolar I Disorder?
*What type of exercises are good for Bipolar I Disorder?
*What is a balance diet for people affected with Bipolar I Disorder ?
I would like for you to join me here on my Blog “Talking with Donna” where I will continue to provide information on mental health. Also, you can listen to my podcast also named “Talking with Donna”, where I provide meditation for stress relief or just for relaxation and although they are old (as I haven’t had a chance to record new meditation as of yet. If you haven’t already, please check it out). I can be found on these platforms: Spotify, Apple podcast, Google podcast, Overcast, Stitcher, Amazon music, Pocket cast and iHeart Radio.
Again, thank you for joining me. Please Remember to, Like, Share and follow. You can also email me at talkingwithdonna@gmail.com.
Remember if you or someone you know are challenged with mental health issues, please seek assistance.
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