Bi-Polar Affective Disorder Flashcards
1
Q
What is Bipolar Affective Disorder?
A
A serious recurrent mental health condition characterised by periods of extreme mood elevation (mania) and cyclical depression
Bipolar 1 has more severe mania, psychosis possible
Bipolar 2 has depression and hypomania
2
Q
What is the aetiology of BAD?
A
Genetic factors Neurotransmitters and brain biochemistry circadian rhythm menstrual cycle (hormones) Maladaptive coping mechanisms Substance abuse head injury childhood trauma neglect parental death More common in high income countries prenatal environment
3
Q
What are the symptoms of BAD?
A
Cycles of depression and euphoria
Rapid onset of mania or hypomania
WHEN MANIC: Decreased need for sleep Pressured speech Racing thoughts Flight of ideas Distractibility Increased activity Grandiosity or self inflation Pleasure and stimulation seeking possible increased risk taking Episode for a week or longer
WHEN DEPRESSED: Diminished interest or pleasure Weight loss or gain Insomnia or hypersomnia Psychomotor agitation or retardation Loss of energy Feeling worthless or guilty Recurrent thoughts of death Indecisiveness
7 days or longer
4
Q
What are the treatment options for bipolar?
A
Mood stabilising medication like lithium
Anticonvulsants
Anxiolytics and antipsychs
Psychological approaches:
CBT, minfulness, talk therapy
ECT and TMS
