What is Bipolar Disorder?
How is it diagnosed


Diagnosing bipolar disorder involves a thorough clinical evaluation by a psychiatrist. They assess symptoms, medical history, and family history to form a comprehensive picture. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides standardised criteria for diagnosis, categorising bipolar disorder into types.


Treatments :

Mood Stabilisers
Medications such as mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants are [expander_maker id="4" more="Read more" less="Read less"]commonly prescribed to stabilise mood fluctuations. [/expander_maker]

Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, particularly psychodynamic therapies and[expander_maker id="4" more="Read more" less="Read less"] Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helps individuals develop coping strategies and manage mood swings effectively.[/expander_maker]

Lifestyle Changes
A strict lifestyle regime, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and [expander_maker id="4" more="Read more" less="Read less"]sufficient sleep, can help maintain overall well-being. Stress management techniques are crucial in preventing the triggering of episodes.[/expander_maker]

Patterns of Depression and Mania
The patterns of bipolar disorder vary among individuals and across the[expander_maker id="4" more="Read more" less="Read less"] different types. Bipolar I's intense manic episodes are often succeeded by severe depressive episodes. Bipolar II, characterised by depressive and hypomanic episodes, may lead to less severe disruptions in daily life but still poses significant challenges. Cyclothymic disorder, with its chronic mood disturbances, presents a more subtle but enduring impact on an individual's emotional stability.[/expander_maker]