What is bipolar disorder?
People with bipolar disorder can experience extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression), which can continue for weeks or in some cases, months. There are three main types of bipolar disorder, often referred to as bipolar disorders.
Bipolar disorder used to be called manic depression.
While the cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, research suggests a strong genetic link.
Bipolar disorders are commonly diagnosed between 18 and 30 years of age and the onset may be associated with stressful or traumatic events, such as complications in pregnancy, childbirth or early parenthood.
You may have a first experience of bipolar during pregnancy or in the year after your baby is born.
For others, you may already have a diagnosis of bipolar before you become pregnant.
Bipolar disorders in the perinatal period can go undiagnosed and untreated or be misdiagnosed as something else. This is why it's so crucial to seek help early.
The important thing to know is that having a bipolar diagnosis is not a barrier to becoming a parent, it just involves careful planning with your doctor and your support network.
Parents with bipolar are often highly intelligent, creative and empathetic people with an increased self-awareness and resilience, traits that can positively impact your relationship with your child.
Helpful Information
Perinatal anxiety and depression: Signs and symptoms
Types of bipolar affective disorders
1
Bipolar Type I (BP-I)
2
Bipolar Type 2 (BD-II)
3
Cyclothymic disorder or cyclothymia
Some people may experience ‘rapid cycling’ (four or more depressive or manic periods in one year), mixed mood episodes, or cycle between two (bi) extremes (poles) of mood:
- Low (depressive)
- High (hypomanic - last a few days; or manic - lasts at least a week)
Symptoms of bipolar disorders
1
Some of the general symptoms of mania include:
2
Some of the general symptoms of depression include:
It’s important to know that sometimes people who are experiencing bipolar symptoms will present as functioning ‘well’ when they are being assessed and therefore are not diagnosed accurately.
If you or someone close to you thinks that you may be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, please see your doctor as soon as you can.
Sometimes we may feel ashamed or embarrassed about how we are feeling/thinking/behaving.
Guilt and fear of what other people might think can get in the way of us seeking help.
If your signs and symptoms can be screened and identified properly then you and your family can be as well supported as possible.
What causes bipolar disorders?
Many new mothers/birthing people find that their bipolar symptoms come ‘out of the blue’ as it’s something that has previously been asymptomatic.
Bipolar disorders have a lot to do with brain chemistry. There is usually a family history due to the strong genetic link.
It’s important to contact your health professional to discuss your symptoms. Each person will have a unique experience with the condition.
If you think you may have bipolar and are struggling to cope or have recently been diagnosed and need someone to talk to confidentially, please contact PANDA on 1300 726 306.
PRIYA’S STORY: MANAGING BIPOLAR AND PSYCHOSIS IN THE PERINATAL PERIOD
"In October 2015 I started reducing the medication, and in February I started getting manic again. And that’s when she confirmed it was bipolar.
This time I realised immediately, because I was not able to sleep. I started writing again and having racing thoughts. They changed my medication and I stabilised quickly.
Now, life just feels like it did before my diagnosis, only I am more in sync with my inner knowing and have emerged stronger and more capable of managing my emotions and state.
Know that it is possible to live a full life no matter the diagnosis. I have done it."
Articles
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