Psychology · Ch 4 — Psychological Disorders
Bipolar and Related Disorders
Bipolar and Related Disorders
Bipolar and Related Disorders
Bipolar disorders are fundamentally mood disorders, but unlike depressive disorders, they involve swings in both directions — from the lows of depression to the highs of mania. The core idea is that a person’s mood alternates between two poles: depression and mania. This is why these disorders were earlier called manic-depressive disorders.
The most well-known form is Bipolar I Disorder. In Bipolar I, both manic episodes and depressive episodes occur. They are alternately present, meaning a person may experience a period of mania, then a period of depression, and sometimes these episodes are interrupted by periods of normal mood. A key point is that manic episodes rarely appear by themselves; they usually alternate with depression.
Other types include Bipolar II Disorder and Cyclothymic Disorder. Bipolar II involves a milder form of mania (called hypomania) along with depression, while Cyclothymic Disorder involves chronic, fluctuating mood disturbances with many periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are less severe than full-blown episodes.
A common mistake is to think of bipolar disorder as just "mood swings." The manic episodes in Bipolar I are severe and can lead to risky behaviour, hospitalisation, or psychosis — they are not just feeling happy or energetic.
Suicide: A Critical Concern
The textbook then turns to a deeply important topic: suicide. Every suicide is a misfortune, and it can take place at any stage of life. Suicide is not caused by a single factor; it is the result of a complex interface of biological, genetic, psychological, sociological, cultural, and environmental factors.
Risk factors for suicide include:
- Having a mental disorder, especially depression and alcohol use disorders.
- Going through natural disasters.
- Experiencing violence, abuse, or loss.
- Isolation at any stage of life.
- A previous suicidal attempt — this is the strongest risk factor.
Often, suicidal behaviour indicates difficulties in problem-solving, stress management, and emotional expression. Suicidal thoughts lead to action only when acting on these thoughts seems to be the only way out of a person’s difficulties. These thoughts are heightened under acute emotional and other distress.
The ramifications of suicide on social circles and communities are devastating and long-lasting. The stigma surrounding suicide continues despite advances in research. Because of this stigma, many people who are contemplating or even attempting suicide do not seek help, thus preventing timely help from reaching them.
Suicides are preventable. Improving identification, referral, and management of suicidal behaviour is crucial. We need to identify vulnerability, comprehend the circumstances leading to such behaviour, and accordingly plan interventions.
Measures suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent suicide include:
- Limiting access to the means of suicide.
- Reporting of suicide by media in a responsible way.
- Bringing in alcohol-related policies.
- Early identification, treatment, and care of people at risk.
- Training health workers in assessing and managing suicide risk.
- Care for people who attempted suicide and providing community support.
Identifying Students in Distress and Strengthening Self-Esteem
The textbook provides practical guidance for educators and peers. Any unexpected or striking change affecting an adolescent’s performance, attendance, or behaviour should be taken seriously. Warning signs include:
- Lack of interest in common activities. …