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Usual Onset and Clinical Course of Bipolar Disorder

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates almost six million Americans suffer from bipolar disorder, a mental illness in which the individual may seesaw between manic highs and depressive lows.

  1. Usual Onset

    • While bipolar disorder can manifest at any age, the median age for onset is around age 25. According to AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, bipolar is frequently misdiagnosed, sometimes for as long as 10 years.

    Clinical Course

    • There is no typical clinical course for bipolar disorder. Instead of the "classic" cycle of manic highs and depressive lows, individuals may experience mixed episodes (symptoms of mania and depression simultaneously) or cycle between normal moods and severe depression.

    Medication

    • There are several medications available to treat bipolar disorder. Psychiatrists will prescribe medications to suit the individual, typically an antidepressant (Prozac and others), an antipsychotic to treat mania (such as Abilify), and a medication to treat cycling (Lithium, Depakote).

    Therapy

    • Research conducted by NIMH suggests patients with bipolar disorder fare better when treatment includes therapy. Styles proven effective are goal-oriented therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family-focused therapy.

    Warning

    • An estimated 25 to 50 percent of individuals with bipolar disorder attempt suicide. Take any suicidal thoughts and impulses seriously. Call a hotline or go to the emergency room for help.

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