Bipolar Related Disorders
Bipolar Disorder
The condition was previously known as manic-depression, where moods alternate at various intervals between being on a high and being very low.
There are basically two types, although individuals may vary over a wide spectrum of the two poles. Bipolar I includes a higher manic episode. During this episode unlimited confidence regarding your abilities in personal and financial areas are experiences. This may be characterized by many ideas and hightened activity and talking, distractability, less need of sleep, impulsive decisions and risk taking behaviour (that may involve business decisions, sexual acts, alcohol abuse and speeding). This is usually followed by a depressed episode.
Bipolar II is a less intense form of highs and lows with less impact on social and occupational functioning.
Therapy starts by identifying goals together. CBT aims at giving information about BD and how it presents for the particular individual, explaining the cognitive therapy model, helping to identify and deal with symptoms and stressors, and improving support systems.
Cyclothymia
This condition is similar to Bipolar Disorder, but mood swings are less severe. There may be episodes of hypomania which alternate with periods of lighter depression.
Reading4:
Marbles (Forney)