Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder And Its Types
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder: Recognizing Signs
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition, typically characterised by a cycle of depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. Mania is a state of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and increased talkativeness. Hypomania is similar to mania but less severe. A person experiencing hypomania may feel excellent, be highly productive, and take on multiple projects simultaneously. However, they may also be impulsive and irritable and have difficulty sleeping. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy characterise depression.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
During periods of mania or hypomania, a person with bipolar disorder may experience:
incredible ‘highs’ or euphoria
delusions of self-importance
high levels of creativity, energy and activity
less sleep or no sleep
poor appetite and weight loss
racing thoughts, racing speech, talking over people
high irritability, impatience or aggressiveness
inappropriate sexual activity or risk-taking
dressing more colourfully and being less inhibited
impulsiveness and making poor choices in spending or business
grand and unrealistic plans
poor concentration, easily distracted
delusions, hallucinations.
During depressive episodes, a person with bipolar disorder may experience:
feelings of sadness or hopelessness
loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities
withdrawal from family and friends
sleep problems (often excessive sleep)
loss of energy, feeling exhausted
physical slowing
low self-esteem
feelings of guilt
problems concentrating
suicidal thoughts.
Different types of bipolar disorder
There are four types of bipolar disorder explained here. The two main types of bipolar disorder are Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Cyclothymic disorder and substance-induced bipolar disorder are also recognised, though less common types of bipolar disorder.
Bipolar I
People with Bipolar I disorder experience mania and periods of depressive symptoms.
Bipolar II
People with Bipolar II disorder experience less extreme highs (known as hypomania) and periods of depressive symptoms.
Cyclothymic disorder
Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, is similar to but less severe than Bipolar I and II. Specifically, people with cyclothymic disorder experience periods of low mood or mild depression and periods of hypomania that are typically less severe or long-lasting than those experiencing bipolar I or II.
Substance-induced bipolar disorder
Substance-induced bipolar disorder occurs when a person experiences a noticeable and persistent disturbance in mood, with high or irritable mood, after substance use or withdrawal.
Causes of bipolar disorder
The causes of bipolar disorder are not always the same for every person. The leading causes usually combine genetics, environmental factors, physical illnesses and substances.
Although there is no specific gene that causes bipolar disorder, it is passed from parent to child. If one parent has bipolar, there is a 10% chance their child will be diagnosed with bipolar. If both parents have bipolar, this chance increases to 40%.
Environmental factors that may trigger bipolar disorder include stressful life events and seasonal factors – such as a rapid increase in hours of bright sunshine, which affects the pineal gland.
Physical illnesses can, in some cases, cause symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, such as mania or hypomania.
Certain substances can lead to a high, which resembles mania or hypomania. Examples of such chemicals include antidepressants, vast amounts of caffeine, and cocaine, ecstasy or amphetamines.
Treatments for bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder needs careful and ongoing treatment to be managed effectively. The first step is to speak with a GP, who can help determine if a person’s mood changes are indicative of bipolar disorder. They may refer to a specialist, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, for expert long-term management. Taking a team approach that includes support from your GP, psychologists, psychiatrist, and family is one of the best ways to manage bipolar disorder effectively.
Initial treatment may include a prescription of medication by a medical professional, such as a GP or psychiatrist, to stabilise someone currently experiencing mania or depression. Ongoing treatment may focus on psychological and lifestyle approaches that will help people diagnosed with bipolar disorder improve their quality of life.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can be used to treat bipolar disorder. This therapy can help people identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behaviour, which can help to reduce symptoms of depression and mania.
It can also be helpful for people with bipolar disorder to establish a routine, including regular sleep patterns, eating habits, and exercise routines.
It's important to note that having bipolar disorder does not define a person, and it's important not to make generalisations or stereotypes about someone based on their diagnosis. It's also essential for friends and family to be supportive and understanding of their loved one's condition and encourage them to seek help if needed.
Meet Your Clinical Psychologists In Newcastle
Dr Emma Doolan is a Clinical Psychologist based in Newcastle. With a collaborative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Emma is experienced in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities like schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has completed her registration as a clinical psychologist from AHPRA. Emma is a member of several professional associations, including ACPA, APS, AACBT, and APN.
Paige Cornell is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who have experience in therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. She focuses on building a solid therapeutic relationship and tailoring treatment to each individual. Paige has experience in private practice, NGOs, and forensic settings.
She works with a diverse range of mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, substance abuse, and offending behaviours. Paige is particularly interested in helping LGBTQI+ individuals and those dealing with trauma and substance abuse. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and a board-approved supervisor for psychologists. Paige is a member of ACPA and APS, holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychological Science (Honours).
Taylah Armstrong is a Clinical Psychologist in Newcastle. She focuses on developing solid therapeutic relationships to assist individuals in enhancing their well-being and achieving their goals. Taylah is skilled in treating various concerns such as anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders.
She utilises evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Taylah has worked in public healthcare, primary care, and education sectors. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist by AHPRA and holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Newcastle.
Paige Whitfield is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle with experience in private and public health settings. She collaborates with health professionals, families, and schools to provide evidence-based treatments like CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT for various issues. Paige has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (Honours) and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and is a member of APS and ACPA.
Dr Kaitlin Fitzgerald is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who takes a collaborative and client-centred approach to therapy. She creates a warm and relaxed environment for clients, aiming to make therapy sessions comfortable and even enjoyable. Kaitlin holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. In addition to her private practice at ELD Psychology, she also works in public mental health treating adults with various mental health issues.
Kaitlin has experience working with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. Kaitlin is fully registered as a clinical psychologist with AHPRA and is approved to supervise provisional and registered psychologists.
Eliza Newton is a person-centred Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping clients explore their deeper selves. She tailors her approach to each client, using psychodynamic therapy for self-exploration or structured techniques like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Schema Therapy. Eliza focuses on individuals overcoming childhood trauma, including Complex PTSD, and helps those with ADHD develop organisational and emotional well-being strategies. With experience in private practice, inpatient settings, and psychiatric rehabilitation, she addresses challenges from anxiety and mood disorders to severe mental illness.
Eliza holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with AHPRA and is a member of AAPi and ACPA.
Disclaimer
The content provided on this blog is intended for Australian audiences and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared here is based on general knowledge and experience in the field of psychology, but it may not be applicable to your specific situation.
Always seek the advice of your psychologist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a psychological condition or treatment. Never disregard professional psychological advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, or dial 000 immediately. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or institutions.