OASIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL -ALAIN

2022-2023

PSYCHOLOGY PROJECT

CASE STUDY

BIPOLAR DISORDERS

Submitted By: -----

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INDEX

 Student’s Profile
 Introduction
 Identification of Data
 Case History
 Signs and Symptoms
 Causes
 Treatment and Outcomes
 Conclusion
 Bibliography
STUDENTS PROFILE

Name

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Place of Birth

Date of Birth

Age

Grade

School

Contact no.

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INTRODUCTION
Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes changes in a person's mood,
energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience
intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days
to weeks, called mood episodes. These mood episodes are categorized as
manic/hypomanic (abnormally happy or irritable mood) or depressive
(sad mood). People without bipolar disorder experience mood fluctuations
as well. However, these mood changes typically last hours rather than days.
Also, these changes are not usually accompanied by the extreme degree of
behaviour change or difficulty with daily routines and social interactions
that people with bipolar disorder demonstrate during mood episodes.
Bipolar disorder can disrupt a person’s relationships with loved ones and
cause difficulty in working or going to school.

TYPES OF BIPOLAR DISORDERS

Bipolar I disorder.
This is the more severe form of bipolar. It involves at least one period of mania
in your lifetime. That episode may be extreme and dangerous. You may also
experience depression, but you don’t have to have a major depressive episode to
be diagnosed with this type.
Bipolar II disorder.
This can look similar to bipolar I, but this type always has depressive episodes
with occasional hypomania. Bipolar II isn’t a milder form of bipolar, it’s a
separate diagnosis. But some people with bipolar II go on to develop bipolar I.
Cyclothymic disorder.
Also known as cyclothymia, this is a rare type of bipolar disorder. Its highs and
lows are usually less severe than those of bipolar l and bipolar ll. But it can
impact your life just as much. You may have shorter periods of hypomanic
symptoms and brief periods of depressive symptoms. Cyclothymic disorder can
develop into bipolar 1 or bipolar 2.
Unspecified Bipolar Disorder

unspecified” is when a person does not meet the criteria for bipolar I, II
or cyclothymia but has still experienced periods of clinically significant
abnormal mood elevation.You may have a few symptoms of depression
and mania, but not the full diagnostic criteria based on the duration of
how many symptoms you have

Symptoms of bipolar disorder

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary. An individual with bipolar disorder
may have manic episodes, depressive episodes, or “mixed” episodes. A mixed
episode has both manic and depressive symptoms. These mood episodes
cause symptoms that last a week or two or sometimes longer. During an
episode, the symptoms last every day for most of the day. Mood episodes are
intense. The feelings are intense and happen along with changes in behavior,
energy levels, or activity levels that are noticeable to others.
Symptoms of Manic Episode
 Feeling very up, high, elated, or extremely irritable or
touchy
 Feeling jumpy or wired, more active than usual
 Racing thoughts
 Decreased need for sleep.
 Talking fast about a lot of different things (“flight of ideas”).
 Excessive appetite for food, drinking, sex, or other pleasurable activities.
 Thinking you can do a lot of things at once without getting tired.
 Feeling like you are unusually important, talented, or powerful.
Symptoms of Depressive Episode
 Feeling very down or sad, or anxious.
 Feeling slowed down or restless.
 Trouble concentrating or making decisions.
 Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much.
 Talking very slowly, feeling like you have nothing to say, or forgetting a
lot.
 Lack of interest in almost all activities.
 Unable to do even simple things.
 Feeling hopeless or worthless, or thinking about death or suicide.
Causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown. However, research suggests
that there is no single cause. Instead, a combination of factors may contribute
to bipolar disorder.
Brain structure and functioning: Some studies show that the brains of people with
bipolar disorder differ in certain ways from the brains of people who do not have
bipolar disorder or any other mental disorder. Learning more about these brain
differences may help scientists understand bipolar disorder and determine which
treatments will work best. At this time, health care providers base the diagnosis and
treatment plan on a person’s symptoms and history, rather than brain imaging or
other diagnostic tests.

Genetics: Some research suggests that people with certain genes are more likely to
develop bipolar disorder. Research also shows that people who have a parent or
sibling with bipolar disorder have an increased chance of having the disorder
themselves. Many genes are involved, and no one gene causes the disorder.
Learning more about how genes play a role in bipolar disorder may help researchers
develop new treatments.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

To diagnose bipolar disorder, a doctor or other health care provider may:
 Complete a full physical exam.
 Order medical testing to rule out other illnesses.
 Refer the person for an evaluation by a psychiatrist.
A psychiatrist or other mental health professional diagnoses bipolar
disorder based on the symptoms, lifetime course, and experiences of the
individual. Some people have bipolar disorder for years before it is
diagnosed. This may be because:
 Bipolar disorder has symptoms in common with several other
mental health disorders. A doctor may think the person has a
different disorder, such as schizophrenia or (unipolar) depression.
 Family and friends may notice the symptoms, but not realize that
the symptoms are part of a more significant problem.
 People with bipolar disorder often have other health conditions,
which can make it hard for doctors to diagnose bipolar disorder.

How is bipolar disorder treated?

Treatment helps many people, even those with the most severe forms of
bipolar disorder. Doctors treat bipolar disorder with medications,
psychotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
Medications
Certain medications can help control the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Some
people may need to try several different medications and work with their
doctor before finding the ones that work best. The most common types of
medications that doctors prescribe include mood stabilizers and atypical
antipsychotics. Mood stabilizers such as lithium can help prevent mood
episodes or reduce their severity when they occur. Lithium also decreases the
risk for suicide. Additional medications that target sleep or anxiety are
sometimes added to mood stabilizers as part of a treatment plan. Talk with
your doctor or a pharmacist to understand the risks and benefits of each
medication. Report any concerns about side effects to your doctor right away.
Avoid stopping medication without talking to your doctor first.

Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy (sometimes called “talk therapy”) is a term for a variety of
treatment techniques that aim to help a person identify and change troubling
emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Psychotherapy can offer support,
education, skills, and strategies to people with bipolar disorder and their
families. Psychotherapy often is used in combination with medications; some
types of psychotherapy (e.g., interpersonal, social rhythm therapy) can be an
effective treatment for bipolar disorder when used with medications.

Coping With Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but there are ways to help
make it easier for yourself, a friend, or a loved one.
 Get treatment and stick with it—recovery takes time and it’s not easy. But
treatment is the best way to start feeling better.
 Keep medical and therapy appointments, and talk with the provider about
treatment options.
 Take all medicines as directed.
 Structure activities: keep a routine for eating and sleeping, and make sure
to get enough sleep and exercise.
 Learn to recognize your mood swings.
 Ask for help when trying to stick with your treatment.
 Be patient; improvement takes time. Social support helps.
Remember, bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness, but long-term, ongoing
treatment can help control symptoms and enable you to live a healthy life.
*Case of Bipolar Disorder: Sarah's Struggle**
Meet Sarah, a 25-year-old young woman who has always been known for her
cheerful and optimistic personality. She is passionate about her career in graphic
design and enjoys spending time with her friends. However, there's something that
Sarah has been battling since her teenage years – bipolar disorder.

**Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:**

1. **Manic Phase:** During her manic episodes, Sarah becomes excessively
talkative, full of energy, and highly creative. She works tirelessly on her graphic
design projects, often staying up all night without feeling tired. Her confidence soars,
and she believes she can achieve anything she sets her mind to. During these times,
Sarah might take impulsive risks, such as spending a lot of money on things she
doesn't need.

2. **Depressive Phase:** Unfortunately, after the euphoric highs, Sarah experiences

devastating lows. She feels overwhelmed by sadness, loses interest in her work and
hobbies, and withdraws from her friends and family. Getting out of bed becomes a
daily struggle, and she experiences feelings of worthlessness and guilt. The simplest
tasks seem impossible, and her energy is drained.

**Patient Information:**
Sarah comes from a supportive family, and she has always been encouraged to
pursue her dreams. She was an excellent student and excelled in her studies.
However, during her late teens, her mood swings became more noticeable, and her
academic performance started to suffer.

**Family Situation:**
Sarah's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, have been supportive throughout her
journey with bipolar disorder. They noticed her mood swings during her high school
years and took her to see a mental health professional. Since then, they have been
actively involved in her treatment and providing emotional support.

**Treatment for Bipolar Disorder:**

After her diagnosis, Sarah started a treatment plan that includes:
1. **Medication:** Sarah takes mood stabilizers prescribed by her psychiatrist to help
control her extreme mood swings and reduce the frequency and intensity of both
manic and depressive episodes.
2. **Therapy:** Sarah attends regular therapy sessions with a counselor who
specializes in bipolar disorder. In therapy, she learns coping mechanisms, stress
management techniques, and ways to recognize and manage triggers.
3. **Lifestyle Changes:** Sarah has made adjustments in her lifestyle, including
maintaining a regular sleep schedule, practicing mindfulness exercises, and
engaging in activities she enjoys to improve her overall well-being.

**Living with Bipolar Disorder:**

Despite the challenges she faces, Sarah has learned to manage her condition with
the ongoing support of her family, friends, and medical professionals. She now
recognizes the signs of mood swings and reaches out for help when needed. While
there are still ups and downs, Sarah's treatment plan has significantly improved her
quality of life. She continues to pursue her passion for graphic design and has
become an advocate for mental health awareness.

Sarah's story shows that with proper treatment, understanding, and support,
individuals living with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their
dreams.

CONCLUSION
Mood disorders are diagnosed through both physical examinations and mental health
evaluations. Your physician will perform a physical exam to rule out any underlying medical
conditions that are causing an effect on your mood. If ruled out, a mental health provider
may perform a series of assessments to determine your mood stability and mental health.
Many individuals are reluctant to seek help for mood disorders due to the social stigma
associated with them. Because of this, many go undiagnosed and approximately only 20%
of those diagnosed receive treatment.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

2. Mayoclinic