Psychiatric Disorders

Bipolar Disorder

(BD)

(Previously known as Manic Depression)

It is characterized by an alteration in the person's mood, whether from exaltation, high spirits, being active, euphoric, full of energy or with a lot of vitality, which is considered mania in contrast to another state where the mood is reduced, no activity is carried out or there is depression.

Bipolar Disorder

People who suffer from bipolar disorder feel out of control over their emotions, and it can affect men and women equally. These episodes can begin very abruptly and last for a period of at least two weeks and up to four months. The depressive phase can last even longer, up to six months.

These mood swings tend to affect sleep, behavior, the ability to think or make decisions, and they influence daily activities. For example, they may lose their job or struggle to function properly.

This disorder is characterized by being lifelong; it can only be managed to regulate mood swings or other symptoms that may arise. It's important to know that people sometimes go through difficult times where thoughts of sadness or suffering may occur, and there are also days when we experience immense joy. However, bipolar disorder is characterized by the frequency and intensity of these episodes.

What are the possible causes of bipolar disorder?

There is no single defined cause; however, genetics plays a significant role, as the disorder has been found in several members of the same family. While this is not a determining factor some individuals may not develop it is most common in close relatives such as parents or siblings. Another possible cause is brain function, as some individuals may have brain abnormalities.

Risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder or even trigger it include periods of excessive stress, the death of a family member or loved one, traumatic experiences, and alcohol or drug abuse.

What are the symptoms?

A manic episode is characterized by the following signs:

Easily distracted
Decreased sleep
Excessively high self-esteem
Lack of temper control
Aggressive or destructive behavior
Promiscuity or increased sexual desire
Euphoria, happiness, or a feeling of exhilaration
Irritability
Distractibility
Lack of control, which can lead to excessive alcohol or drug use, gambling, shopping, or spending
Distorted self-perception
Increased speech rate, abrupt topic changes, and intolerance of being interrupted.

A depressive episode may present with:

Low energy and fatigue
Feelings of hopelessness
Sadness or low mood
Worry
Feelings of emptiness
Difficulty concentrating
Suicidal thoughts and even suicide attempts
Loss of self-esteem
Sleep disturbances: Sleeping too much or, conversely, having trouble sleeping.
Eating changes: Eating too little or too much, which can lead to weight loss or gain.
Withdrawal from daily activities
Loss of interest and enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities.
Constant discomfort such as headaches or stomach aches.
Irritability, anxiety, or aggression
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Melancholy

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

This disorder requires timely diagnosis because the manic or depressive episodes are excessive and can be life-threatening. Mood swings and behavioral changes must be controlled, and treatment should not be interrupted.

A person with bipolar disorder will receive multidisciplinary support from psychologists and psychiatrists. The specialist will prescribe the appropriate medications to control symptoms. It is important to be informed about the possible side effects. Treatment will be personalized, taking into account the patient's age and the severity of their symptoms.

Individual, family, and group therapy will help individuals learn to manage their lives and behavior.

What are the complications of bipolar disorder?

The most serious complication is suicide. Subsequently, other problems may arise that affect the lives of the person with the disorder and their close family. These can include legal or financial problems, damaged social and emotional relationships, and poor performance at school or work.

What should you do if someone with this disorder is having a crisis?

It's important that if you are close to someone experiencing a crisis, especially one involving suicidal thoughts, you seek professional help.

Don't leave the person alone. You can contact the emergency transport service of Margaritas Therapeutic Community, as they have trained personnel to transport patients to a hospital or other institution. This service is available 24/7, 365 days a year in Mexico City and throughout Mexico. If you are experiencing a crisis, ask for help. Call emergency services, and if possible, have someone with you. Tell a friend or family member so they can get specialized help and appropriate treatment.

Contact for Help

Established in 1991

45 years
of experience

Since our founding in 1991, we have worked in an interdisciplinary manner with psychiatrists, psychoanalysts, and psychotherapists in the treatment, rehabilitation, monitoring, and follow-up of patients.

Facilities

Operational Model

Created to help people with different levels of problems.

Our unique model allows patients to be in an inclusive environment, interact with society, and thrive within it. Over time, we have seen excellent results with the types of therapies and workshops we offer, which set us apart from institutions, psychiatric clinics, and other halfway houses in Mexico.