Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorders are found between the chapters on schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic
disorders and depressive disorders in DSM-5-TR in recognition of their place as a bridge
between those two diagnostic classes in terms of symptomatology, family history, and genetics.
It is a mood disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood or energy.

Types: There are two types of bipolar disorder, including Bipolar I and Bipolar II.

Bipolar I: For a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder, it is necessary to meet the criteria for a manic
episode. The manic episode may have been preceded by and may be followed by hypomanic or
major depressive episodes.

Bipolar II: Criteria have been met for at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major
depressive episode.

Management

 Psychoeducation: Psychoeducation for bipolar disorder consists of giving information about

the symptoms of the illness, prognosis of the disorder, its prevalence, and details about
possible treatment/management options are also described to the client.

 Monitoring/Detecting Early Signs of an Episode: We make the client realize that in order
to manage severe mood-related symptoms and even stop them from recurring, they need to
know when symptoms are beginning to emerge.

 Mood Symptoms Distinguishing: After the client has developed awareness of the severity
levels of symptoms, they can distinguish between their regular functioning and the changed
level of functioning during depressive/manic episode.

 Identifying Strengths: We ask the client to identify the possible strengths that they have.
The list of strengths can remind the client that they have many abilities that can be used to
make it through difficult times when they experience mood disturbances.
 Recognizing Triggers: For people with bipolar disorder, there might be common triggers of
mood swings that can persist or turn into proper episodes. Therefore, it is important for these
individuals to track their triggers. For this, other people associated with the client can provide
useful information and help.

 Using Coping Resources: Everyone possesses some coping resources. Personal qualities,
personality aspects or support are all examples of coping resources. Making a list of coping
resources helps a person make it through their day during times of trouble, or periods when
their symptoms appear.