Bipolar and Related Disorders Overview

Bipolar and Related Disorders

• Bipolar disorders are a group of conditions causing extreme mood fluctuations, impacting energy and functioning.
• Previously known as manic-depressive disorder, DSM-5 classifies them as bipolar and related disorders.
• Bipolar disorder encompasses three types: Bipolar I disorder, Bipolar II disorder, and Cyclothymic disorder.
• Untreated disorders adversely affect relationships, career prospects, and academic performance. Suicide risk is also a concern.
• Diagnosis typically occurs between the ages of 15 and 25, but can happen at any age.
• Bipolar disorders affect males and females equally.
• Three key episode types include: Manic Episodes, Hypomanic Episodes, and Depressive Episodes.

Manic Episode

• Mania is the opposite pole of depression.
• A manic episode isn't a disorder itself but a component of bipolar disorder.
• Individuals in a manic state experience dramatic and inappropriate mood swings. Symptoms impact emotional, motivational, behavioral, and cognitive functioning.

Distinctive Features of Mania

• Manic episodes can be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes.
• Characterized by a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood.
• Abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy levels.

Topic 71: Diagnostic Criteria of Manic Episode

• DSM-5 criteria for a manic episode require a distinct period (at least 1 week) of elevated mood, expansive mood, or irritability, lasting most of the day.
• At least three indicative symptoms (four if mood is only irritable) must be present to a significant degree. These include: inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, reduced need for sleep, increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, distractibility, increased goal-directed activity (socially, work, or school), or excessive involvement in activities with high potential for painful consequences.

Topic 72: Hypomanic Episode

• Hypomania is a less extreme form of mania, not typically causing significant impairment.
• Characterized by a change in functioning, typically resulting in increased sociability, flirtatiousness, energy, and productivity.

Topic 73: Bipolar I Disorder

• Bipolar I disorder involves at least one manic episode.
• A person with bipolar 1 disorder may experience both manic and depressive episodes.
• Diagnostic criteria require meeting at least one manic episode criterion.

Topic 74: Bipolar II Disorder

• Bipolar II disorder is characterized by cycles of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes.
• Elevated moods do not escalate to full-blown mania as in Bipolar I.
• Diagnostic criteria include at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode; no manic episodes.

Topic 75: Cyclothymic Disorder

• Chronic, fluctuating mood swings with periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms.
• The symptoms must be present for at least two years (one in children/adolescents).
• Neither episode meets the duration criterion for hypomania or major depressive episodes.

Topic 76: Substance/Medication Induced Bipolar Disorder

• This disorder results from substance use or withdrawal, with symptoms developing during or soon after substance use or withdrawal.
• Symptoms can include elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, or markedly diminished interest or pleasure.
• The disorder is not better explained by other bipolar disorders or by an independent non-substance/medication-induced bipolar disorder.

This quiz explores the intricate aspects of bipolar and related disorders, including their classifications and impacts. It covers key episode types, such as manic and depressive episodes, and highlights the importance of early diagnosis. Understand the symptoms and the risks associated with untreated conditions through this engaging quiz.