Bipolar disorder is said to be characterized by fluctuation of mood from sad to happy repeatedly. So, if I have a lot of mood swings, does it mean that I have bipolar disorder?
So, this is the question that is often asked and I shall discuss it here today.
The understanding of bipolar disorder is rapidly evolving and different hypotheses have been formulated from time to time by experts. However, here, we shall restrict ourselves to a simplified model for easier understanding.
Classically, bipolar disorder is characterized by either repeated manic episodes or both manic and depressive episodes. Manic episodes are usually characterized by sustained elevated mood or irritability, increased self esteem, grandiosity, over-religiosity, over-generosity, decreased requirement for sleep (sleeps less but is visibly not tired), increased activity, authoritative behavior and so on. These symptoms typically last from days to weeks to months. A somewhat milder version of this is known as a hypomanic episode. These episodes may alternate with depressive episodes characterized by sadness, fatigue, pessimism, suicidal ideation and so on. Depressive episodes typically last from weeks to months and are generally longer than manic episodes.
Now to answer the question: Does mood swings represent bipolar disorder?
No, what is commonly referred to as mood swings by most people is short lasting fluctuations of mood and the extent of mood variation is also limited. for instance one might feel a little confident for a few minutes to hours and then somewhat less confident with associated changes in mood from happiness to sadness or irritability. Thus, besides being short lasting, the intensity of change is also mild (increased confidence but not grandiosity; decreased confidence but not suicidal ideas).
It may be seen in normal people, in women in the days preceding menses, in those with a borderline personality, during alcohol withdrawal, during onset of menopause and so on.
But should it be treated? What if it is very discomforting?
If the symptoms are troublesome, yes, it can be treated. Typically, women with premenstrual dysphoria, alcohol withdrawal etc are treated with good results.
An important cautionary note: In those persons with already well diagnosed bipolar disorder, however, new onset mood swings may indicate emergence of a new episode or a partially controlled episode. This must be reviewed by a specialist and appropriate treatment measures instituted.
I hope it has been a useful discussion, friends.
So, this is the question that is often asked and I shall discuss it here today.
The understanding of bipolar disorder is rapidly evolving and different hypotheses have been formulated from time to time by experts. However, here, we shall restrict ourselves to a simplified model for easier understanding.
Classically, bipolar disorder is characterized by either repeated manic episodes or both manic and depressive episodes. Manic episodes are usually characterized by sustained elevated mood or irritability, increased self esteem, grandiosity, over-religiosity, over-generosity, decreased requirement for sleep (sleeps less but is visibly not tired), increased activity, authoritative behavior and so on. These symptoms typically last from days to weeks to months. A somewhat milder version of this is known as a hypomanic episode. These episodes may alternate with depressive episodes characterized by sadness, fatigue, pessimism, suicidal ideation and so on. Depressive episodes typically last from weeks to months and are generally longer than manic episodes.
Now to answer the question: Does mood swings represent bipolar disorder?
No, what is commonly referred to as mood swings by most people is short lasting fluctuations of mood and the extent of mood variation is also limited. for instance one might feel a little confident for a few minutes to hours and then somewhat less confident with associated changes in mood from happiness to sadness or irritability. Thus, besides being short lasting, the intensity of change is also mild (increased confidence but not grandiosity; decreased confidence but not suicidal ideas).
It may be seen in normal people, in women in the days preceding menses, in those with a borderline personality, during alcohol withdrawal, during onset of menopause and so on.
But should it be treated? What if it is very discomforting?
If the symptoms are troublesome, yes, it can be treated. Typically, women with premenstrual dysphoria, alcohol withdrawal etc are treated with good results.
An important cautionary note: In those persons with already well diagnosed bipolar disorder, however, new onset mood swings may indicate emergence of a new episode or a partially controlled episode. This must be reviewed by a specialist and appropriate treatment measures instituted.
I hope it has been a useful discussion, friends.
Please let me know if there is any specific issue that you want me to address. Write in at stayhappy.prakash@gmail.com
So until next time, STAY HAPPY!
Dr. Sathya Prakash, MD, Dip. CBT
Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist and Behavioural Sciences Expert
Appreciate your page to come directly to communicate with you..thanks rogger
ReplyDeleteI have a question if when we can't control over a mind due to excessive worry and anxiety then memory loss,racing thoughts,flashbacks of any thoughts usually happens???
These problems is treatable???
Thanks Robert!
ReplyDeleteYes, that can happen and is perfectly treatable!