What is the psychology behind bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks, called mood episodes.
What research is being done on bipolar disorder?
A new study has found brain abnormalities in people with bipolar disorder. In the largest MRI study to date on patients with bipolar disorder, a global consortium published new research showing that people with the condition have differences in the brain regions that control inhibition and emotion.
Can psychologists help with bipolar disorder?
Psychologists can help people with bipolar disorder recognize and manage symptoms of the disease, change negative thought patterns and behaviors, manage daily routines, and improve relationships with family and friends.
What psychological model best fits bipolar disorder?
Most studies of cognitive models in bipolar disorder have used the model of unipolar disorder as a template.
Which psychotherapy is most effective for bipolar disorder?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves trying to change your patterns of thinking, is effective for bipolar disorder, according to the American Psychological Association.
Does bipolar damage your brain?
A study by researchers at the San Francisco VA Medical Center indicates that people with bipolar disorder may suffer progressive brain damage.
What is the most effective medication for bipolar disorder?
Most of the time, doctors will start bipolar disorder treatment by prescribing a mood-stabilizing drug like lithium. But the FDA has approved some medicines for bipolar depression, too: Lurasidone (Latuda). You might take it alone or with lithium or valproic acid. For some people, traditional antidepressants may trigger a manic episode.
What are facts about bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder and depression are mood disorders, but bipolar is not the same as depression. Although bipolar disorder does share many symptoms with depression, bipolar symptoms also include mood swings. People with bipolar disorder experience periods of high energy called mania.
How to tell if someone is bipolar?
Spotting the signs of bipolar disorder can help a person to get treatment. The person’s mood can range from feelings of elation and high energy to depression. There can also be disruption in sleep and thinking patterns and other behavioral symptoms. The extremes of mood are known as manic episodes and depressive episodes.
How do people develop a bipolar disorder?
Currently, they believe several factors may contribute, including: Genetics. The chances of developing bipolar disorder are increased if a child’s parents or siblings have the disorder. Stress. A stressful event such as a death in the family, an illness, a difficult relationship, divorce or financial problems can trigger a manic or depressive episode. Brain structure and function.