Do you often experience sudden emotional changes? Know Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects a person's mood, sleep patterns, energy levels, and ability to function normally in daily life. It is a serious disorder that can interfere with a person's daily life, personal relationships, school or work performance, and even cause dangerous thoughts or impulsive behavior.

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mood disorder characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder experience deep episodes of depression, followed by episodes of mania or hypomania. Depressive episodes are characterized by feelings of sadness, loss of interest or joy in daily activities, weight changes, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and thoughts of death or suicide. Meanwhile, episodes of mania or hypomania are characterized by elevated mood, high energy, impulsivity, and risky behavior.

Types of Bipolar Disorder:

• Bipolar Disorder Type I: This involves severe episodes of mania that can last for a week or more. Depressive episodes are also possible.
• Bipolar Disorder Type II: In this type, individuals experience serious depressive episodes alternating with episodes of hypomania, which is a lower level of mania than in type I.
• Mixed Bipolar Disorder: This is a combination of symptoms of mania and depression in one period.
• Cyclothymic Disorder: This involves milder mood swings, with milder but persistent episodes of hypomania and depression.

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, however, the following factors may contribute:

• Genetics: People with family members who suffer from bipolar disorder have a higher risk of developing this condition.
• Brain Chemical Imbalance: Changes in brain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, may play a role in the onset of bipolar disorder.
• Stress and Trauma: Stressful events or emotional trauma can trigger episodes of bipolar disorder in vulnerable individuals.
• Lifestyle and Environment: Environmental factors, such as lifestyle, irregular sleeping habits, and consumption of certain substances, can also influence the development of bipolar disorder.

A diagnosis of bipolar disorder involves a thorough medical evaluation by a mental health professional. This includes a clinical interview, behavioral observation, and physical examination to rule out possible physical causes of the symptoms. Management of bipolar disorder involves a combination of drug therapy and behavioral therapy. Medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants can help control symptoms. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy, is also important to help individuals understand and manage symptoms and develop strategies for coping with stress and other triggering situations.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Although understanding and managing bipolar disorder can be challenging, with proper treatment, social support, and lifestyle changes, many individuals can manage their symptoms and live meaningful lives. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder to seek immediate professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment. At RSU Hermina Purwokerto, Hermina's friends can consult about bipolar disorder with a mental health specialist.

 Access to registration can be done in the following 4 ways:
1. Download the mobile application on Playstore (Type Halo Hermina)
2. Call Call Center 1500488
3. Via website -> www.herminahospitals.com
4. Via the Halodoc application