Bipolar disorder (BD) is a psychological disorder that is characterized by episodes if depression alternating with episodes of mania. During a depressive stage of BD, patients exhibit the symptoms of major depression. Patient with BD also display signs of mania.

DepressionMania Sleep problemsDecreased need for sleep Low or increased appetiteRisky behavior Suicidal thoughts or behaviorRacing thought/Rapid speech FatigueAgitation or irritation Loss of interest in personal appearance or sex Increased physical activity/Increased sex drive Delusions or hallucinationsEuphoria/Psychosis Lack of self-worthInflated self-esteem Vague physical symptomsPoor judgment Inability to concentrate or make decisions Careless or dangerous use of drugs or alcohol

 Seasonal changes in mood  Rapid cycling bipolar disorder  Psychosis

 Having blood relatives such as a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder  Drug or alcohol abuse  Major life changes (death of a loved one)  Periods of high stress

For a patient to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, manic symptoms must be present for at least one week. To be diagnosed with BD, the patient must meet the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM). Diagnostic criteria for BD are based on the specific type of BD. Other testing may include a physical exam, laboratory testing, psychological evaluation, and mood charting.

The traditional treatment for bipolar disorder of Lithium may be used by itself or in combination with other drugs. Antiseizure drugs have proven effective agents in mood stabilization. Atypical antipsychotics have also been effective as mood stabilizers.

 Lithium  Carbamazepine (Tegretol)  Lamotrigine (Lamictal)  Valproic acid (Depakote, Depakene)  Aripiprazole (Abilify)  Asenapine (Saphris)  Olenzapine (Zyprexa)  Quetiapine (Seroquel)  Risperidone (Risperdal)  Ziprasidone (Geodon)  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy  Psychoeducation  Family therapy  Group therapy  Transcranial magnetic stimulation  Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)  Hospitalization

Copy and paste the link below into your web browser to view a short YouTube video on the five types of bipolar disorder. &feature=youtu.be

This video proved to be very informative regarding bipolar disorder and the different symptoms associated with each type. However, the video did not discuss treatment options for patients with bipolar disorder.

Adams, M.P., Holland, L.N., & Urban, C.Q. (2014). Pharmacology for nurses: A pathophysiologic approach (4th ed.). r-disorder/DS00356/DSECTION=treatments- and-drugs