Bipolar Mood Disorder Type 1

People with bipolar mood disorder type I have the classic version of this mental condition, experiencing the bouts of mania that most people associate with bipolar disorder, although they may not experience depression as severe as that experienced by people with other bipolar types. There are many ways to treat bipolar disorder and get moods on a more even keel.

Definition

• Bipolar disorder is a mental condition that causes dramatic changes in mood, from extreme highs to extreme lows. These mood changes aren't just ups and downs; they can interfere with a person's ability to function.

Symptoms

• The highs of bipolar disorder are called mania; symptoms include great happiness or irritability, lack of focus, inability to sleep, overwork, feelings of invulnerability and risky behavior such as excessive gambling or sexual activity. Symptoms of the lows include loss of interest in activities, sadness or empty feelings, loss of energy, lack of concentration and irritability.

Type I

• Bipolar disorder type I is different from other types of the condition, such as bipolar disorder type II and cyclothemia, in that it causes full-blown manic episodes.

Causes

• No one knows the specific causes of bipolar disorder type I, but scientists speculate that there is a genetic cause or that people with bipolar disorder have changes in brain structure that cause their emotions to cycle dramatically.

Treatment

• Bipolar disorder type I can't be cured, but mood-stabilizing drugs can help. Atypical antipsychotic medications and antidepressants can be used in some cases, and therapy can provide support and understanding.