Lesson 1: Clinical Disorders – Part B

PART B

Mood Disorders - BIPOLAR Disorder

Depression and bipolar disorder are two of the most common mood disorders in North America. With bipolar disorder, individuals experience extreme mood swings interspersed by periods of more balanced and stable moods and behaviour. There appears to be a genetic link to bipolar disorder because it tends to run in families. Typically, this disorder presents itself in the early twenties and continues throughout the life of the afflicted person. Without treatment (usually drug therapy), individuals with bipolar disorder may experience marital difficulties, job loss, substance abuse, and suicidal thought. Please see Table 3.1 for symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Table 3.1:

Manic Phase

Depressive Phase

• increased energy and activity
• restlessness
• feeling of euphoria
• extreme irritability
• racing thoughts, moving rapidly from one idea or topic to the next
• inability to concentrate, easily distracted
• reduced need for sleep
• increased interest in sexual activity
• unrealistic belief in one’s ability and power, inflated self-esteem
• poor judgement
• excessive spending
• abuse of drugs
• aggressive behaviour
• denial that anything is wrong

• fatigue
• feelings of worthlessness
• a sense of hopelessness
• guilt
• loss of appetite
• thoughts of suicide (suicidal ideation)
• sleep disturbances
• loss of sex drive (libido)

Video: Depression and Bi-polar disorder

Video: Demi Lovato's speaks about her experience with Bipolar Disorder

Click on the link below to learn more about bipolar disorder:

Teen Mental Health

http://teenmentalhealth.org/learn/mental-disorders/bipolar-disorder/

*Please note: all names used in the following case studies have been changed to protect privacy.