Bipolar and Related Disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by significant mood swings or episodes of mania and depression.
Bipolar disorder is the most well-known disorder in this group and is characterized by episodes of mania, hypomania (less intense than mania), and depression. People with bipolar disorder may experience extreme highs or manic episodes where they feel euphoric, have increased energy and impulsivity, engage in risky behavior, and have racing thoughts. These episodes are followed by periods of depression where they feel sad, hopeless, and lack energy and motivation.
Other related disorders include cyclothymic disorder, which is characterized by milder mood swings, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, which involves chronic irritability and frequent outbursts of temper in children and adolescents. There is also a condition called schizoaffective disorder, which involves symptoms of both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Treatment for these disorders usually involves medication, such as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or family-focused therapy.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 