Bipolar disorder, also referred to as manic depression, is a psychiatric condition characterised by intense mood fluctuations from highs (mania or hypomania) to lows (depression). These mood swings encompass periods of elevated mood states as well as episodes of deep depression. When we say highs, we are talking about periods where people feel overly happy, energetic, or irritable. Then, there are the lows where the same person might feel sad or hopeless and lose interest in most daily activities.
Understanding the symptoms of bipolar disorder isn't always straightforward, but we must stay informed. We will also see whether health insurance covers such ailments. So, let us demystify it.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Recognising the bipolar symptoms as part of a broader pattern can prompt individuals or their loved ones to seek professional help.
Manic episodes in people with bipolar I disorder can be so intense that a single episode can last for at least seven days. It usually takes at least two weeks for a depressive episode to pass. Mania is characterised by a lot of symptoms — like being elated or irritated, having a lot of energy, not needing to sleep, having thoughts that race, speaking quickly and under pressure, being overconfident, and doing hazardous things like spending too much money or putting your business in jeopardy. When someone is depressed, they may feel sad or hopeless for an extended period, sluggish, uninterested in their typical activities, worthless, and have suicidal thoughts or ideas about dying.
Symptoms of bipolar II disorder include at least a single episode of hypomania lasting four days; a person may experience at least three symptoms of hypomania, like an abnormal increase in energy and activity levels, as well as feelings of joy, impatience, or both. In addition to these symptoms, they may exhibit an inflated sense of self-worth, less sleep requirement, increased talkativeness, and distractibility. These incidents are obvious to those around you, but they won't get in the way of your social or professional life. A person can also experience an episode of major depression lasting two weeks, showing five or more symptoms. One may show symptoms of psychosis, but only in the case of depression.
A person with cyclothymia or cyclomic disorder experiences hypomanic and depressed episodes multiple times over the course of at least two years. While not quite hypomanic or depressive, these symptoms are severe enough to impair functioning to warrant further evaluation. It is possible for people with cyclothymia to have stable moods for brief periods, but these are often shorter than two months. This milder type of bipolar illness is characterised by sporadic mood swings.
Wrapping up
Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder can also experience symptoms not related to any other mental/medical health issue or any form of substance abuse. Weight swings, disturbed sleep habits, and problems with focus and memory are just some of the cognitive and physical changes brought on by bipolar illness. A person's professional and personal lives can become even more complicated as a result of this.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.