Bipolar disorder is also referred to as mania and is a cluster of mood disorders that exhibit themselves in the form of one or more episodes of abnormally elevated mood. Individuals experiencing this disorder also experience depressive, euphoric or mixed episodes in which characteristics of mania and depression are present at the same time. These incidents are isolated by periods of normal mood but in some patients depression and mania seems to alternate leading to periods of rapid cycling. In cases of extreme manic depression, the individual may also have delusions and hallucinations. a
Types of Bipolar Disorder:
Bipolar Disorder is divided into various categories based on the number of episodes and symptoms:
- Bipolar I
- Bipolar II
- Bipolar NOS
- Cyclothymia
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:
The development of symptoms usually occurs in young adulthood and the diagnosis is based on the individual’s self reported and observed behavior. Periods of illness are characterized by disruption and agony accompanied by a high risk of suicide. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and there may be times when your mood seems to be absolutely normal. Other symptoms are:
- Extreme tension
- Euphoria
- Puffed up self esteem
- Poor judgment
- Aggressive behavior
- Racing thoughts
- Heart palpitation
- Drug Abuse
- Lack of concentration
- Spending sprees
- Increased drive to achieve goals
- Increase sexual drive
- Increased physical activity
- Decreased sleep
Causes of Bipolar Disorder:
The exact cause of Bipolar Disorder has not been determined but a number of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors are responsible for triggering it.
Biochemical: Several high-tech imaging studies indicate that individuals with Bipolar disorder undergo physical changes in their brain. The neurotransmitters that are tied to mood along with hormonal imbalances trigger this disorder.
Genes: Some studies also point towards the fact that bipolar disorder is hereditary.
Environment: These include problems with self-esteem, significant loss or high levels of stress.
Connection between Bipolar disorder and creativity:
Research has established a correlation between bipolar disorder and creativity. The exact relation is yet to be determined, though it is indicated that there is a positive connection between the two. This disorder is found in a large number of individuals involved with creative arts.
