Mental healthMental health conditionICD-10 F31
Bipolar disorder
Also called: Manic depression
A lifelong condition with episodes of depression and episodes of mania or hypomania — abnormally elevated mood, energy and activity.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Causes
- Strong genetic component with environmental triggers
Risk factors
- Family history
- Stress
- Sleep disruption
- Substance use
- Antidepressants alone can trigger mania
Symptoms
- Mania: little need for sleep, racing thoughts, grandiosity, risky behaviour, rapid speech
- Depressive episodes
- Psychotic symptoms in severe episodes
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Psychiatric assessment and history from family
- Mood charting
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Mood stabilisers: lithium (most effective for prevention), valproate (avoided in pregnancy), lamotrigine
- Antipsychotics (quetiapine, olanzapine, aripiprazole)
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Regular sleep and routines
- Psychoeducation and relapse plans
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Psychological therapy
Possible complications
- Suicide
- Relationship, financial and occupational harm
Prevention
- Early recognition of warning signs prevents relapse
Outlook
Most people live full lives with long-term treatment.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent help for thoughts of suicide or severe mania.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
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