Scientists are studying the possible causes of bipolar disorder. Most scientists agree that there is no single cause. Rather, many factors likely act together to produce the illness or increase risk.
These factors include:
GENETICS
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families. Some research has suggested that people with certain genes are more likely to develop bipolar disorder than others.
Children with a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder are much more likely to develop the illness, compared with children who do not have a family history of bipolar disorder.
Brain-imaging tools, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), allow researchers to take pictures of the living brain at work. These tools help scientists study the brain's structure and activity.
There are chemical changes or imbalances in the brain during both extremes of behaviour (mania and depression).
DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE
More than half of the people diagnosed with bipolar disorder have histories of substance abuse. In some cases, substance abuse precedes the development of the problem; in others, alcohol or other drugs may be used as a form of self-medication.
STRESSFUL/DISTURBING EVENTS
Periods of high stress, or disturbing events can both cause mood swings.
TREATING BIOPLAR DISORDER. . .
Although bipolar disorder is a disruptive, long-term condition, with proper treatment plan, affected people can control these mood swings and lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Treatments of Bipolar disorder includes:
MEDICATIONS
The doctor may recommend one or more medicines to find what works best. Some of the classes of medications include mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, antidepressants, and so on.
COUNSELLING
Often, psychotherapy or other forms of counselling are used in combination with medication.
PEER SUPPORT
The advice and support of others who have bipolar disorder can aid recovery.
COMPLEMENTARY CARE
Some people benefit from exercise, stress reduction classes and other activities to complement their treatment and help them manage their illness.
ECT {ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY}
This is used as a last resort to treat severe bouts of depression and suicidal thoughts. It's only considered when medication and therapy haven't worked.
If you think that you or someone you know has bipolar disorder, talk with your primary care physician. Only a mental health professional can tell if a person has bipolar disorder and properly treat it.
Once in treatment, it is important that the person receives the support and understanding of friends and family. Many people also find strength and support through their religious and spiritual affiliations.
P.S: Bipolar disorder, for now, cannot be cured, but proper treatment helps many people with bipolar disorder. Even those with the most severe forms of the illness gain better control of their mood swings and related symptoms.
Since it is a lifelong illness, long-term, continuous treatment is needed to control symptoms.
#StayHealthy
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