Frequently asked questions about bipolar disorder
What is bipolar disorder?
Formerly called manic depression, bipolar disorder is the experience of mood swings from agitated excitement to depression. Today, the term unipolar depression (lows) is used in conjunction with bipolar disorder (highs and lows).
Is there a cure for bipolar disorder?
Genetic predisposition can make you more susceptable to the life experiences which trigger bipolar disorder. Treatment that addresses the triggers of bipolar disorder can successfully reduce the severity and occurrence of episodes. We teach the skills to help manage the disorder and to establish a daily routine that ensures healthy sleep patterns are maintained. Bipolar disorder responds well to treatment, but it becomes more severe if left untreated, so early diagnosis is the key.
Can bipolar disorder be genetic?
The chance of developing bipolar disorder is increased if there is a genetic predisposition. However, if you don’t have bipolar disorder in your family it doesn’t mean that it won’t develop.
What is a bipolar disorder cycle?
On average, most people with bipolar disorder experience an episode of mania and an episode of depression four times in a period of 10 years. A bipolar disorder cycle is these twin episodes of extreme high (mania) and extreme low (depression). Bipolar disorder usually returns on occasions over a lifetime, perhaps with few or no symptoms in between. Treatment can help manage the cycle of episodes and any personal problems caused by bipolar disorder, allowing people with the disorder to lead fulfilled and productive lives.
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Bipolar disorder isn’t easily diagnosed as it cannot be identified by a blood test or brain scan. In discussion with your doctor, a physical examination and mental health evaluation may be carried out. A psychiatrist or other trained mental health professional can also provide an evaluation of symptoms and assist in mapping a family history in order to identify unipolar depression or bipolar disorder.
How do we treat bipolar disorder?
Wesley Hospital Ashfield and Wesley Hospital Kogarah’s highly regarded treatments for bipolar disorder are holistic, combining therapy and medication. Our in-patient programs provide psychological therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy. As skills-based treatments, all aspects of life that could have contributed to the development of the bipolar disorder are considered, and ways to manage the symptoms are provided. During out in-patient programs, additional sessions with a clinical psychologist are available on request.
Our day patient programs for the treatment of bipolar disorder also use cognitive behavioural therapy. Our qualified psychologists work with you to develop life skills enabling:
- symptoms of bipolar disorder to be monitored and
- the behavioural or thought patterns contributing to bipolar disorder to be identified.
We work with you to develop skills to cope more effectively with stress, and aims to increase family support and to build support networks.
