Bipolar Disorder Flashcards
What is bipolar disorder?
Alternating periods of mania/hypomania and depression
Describe a hypomanic episode.
Mood elevated or irritable >4 consecutive days to a definite abnormal degree
Leading to an interference with life
At least 3 of hypomania symptoms
What are the signs of a hypomanic episode?
- increased sexual energy
- increased activity or restlessness
- difficulty concentrating, distracted
- increased talkativeness
- mild spending sprees or other reckless behaviour
- decreased need for sleep
Describe a manic episode.
Mood elevated, expansive, irritable > 1 week
Abnormal for the person
Severe interference with functioning
At least 3 manic symptoms (4 if irritable)
What are the signs of a manic episode?
All the signs of a hypomanic episode +
- flight of ideas, thoughts racing
- increased self esteem, grandiosity
- loss of social inhibitions, inappropriate behaviour
- distractibility/ constant changes in activity or plans
- foolhardy/reckless behaviour
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Clinically
What is mania?
persistently elevated mood plus psychotic symptoms
How can you differentiate between mania and hypomania?
duration - hypomania less than 7-10 days
presence of psychotic symptoms (mania)
What kind of delusions are most common in bipolar disorder?
grandeur e.g. ruler of own kingdom
