This March 30 opens World Bipolar Disorder Day, coinciding with the date of birth of Vincent Van Gogh, who was said to suffer from this disorder. The objective is to promote global awareness in this regard, and eliminate the social stigma that comes with the suffering of this disorder.
Bipolar disorder consists of a mental illness in which the person presents an alteration in the cerebral mechanisms that regulate the state of mind. Who suffers it, throughout its life undergoes recurring episodes of depression, euphoria, or mixed episodes, that alternate with episodes of normality. There are several types: Bipolar disorder type I, type II, and cyclothymia, depending on the intensity and duration of the symptoms and the appearance or not of psychotic symptoms. However, although we make classifications to try to study it and explain it better, the truth is that “there are no illnesses, but sick people”, and more and more people talk about “bipolar spectrum” precisely because the limits are often blurred, every patient is unique and two persons with this same diagnosis can have a very different evolution, as well as different treatments.
According to the studies it affects 2-5% of the population. Anyone, regardless of sex, race or social class can suffer. In general, it usually starts between the second and third decade of life, although it can also affect children or the elderly.
This disease has a strong genetic component, which means that those with relatives who have suffered from this disease, have a greater risk of suffering it too. Having a family history predispose but it does not mean you have to develop the disease necessarily: there are other factors that also favor its appearance, such as stress, drug use or leading a disorderly life with irregular sleep schedules.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic and recurrent disorder. This means that if a proper treatment is not followed, sooner or later a relapse will appear. In the same way that a patient with type 1 diabetes will need his whole life with insulin treatment and follow guidelines to control blood sugar levels, the main pillars to keep bipolar disorder at bay are pharmacological treatment and psychoeducation. Electroconvulsive therapy is also an effective treatment in those cases in which the medication fails. Being aware of disease and following medical guidelines is essential, because when a relapse occurs, the brain suffers. Therefore, the ultimate goal is to achieve stability and prevent relapse.
That he/she visits a psychiatrist who will generate confidence, to be able to clarify all the doubts and concerns that may arise regarding her illness and its treatment, and that the person dedicate the necessary time to obtain specific guidelines for prevention and detection of possible relapses. It would also highlight the role of loved ones. I would recommend that you trust them when they suggest you visit your psychiatrist because they “do not see you well”, since a relapse treated at the beginning is easier to resolve, and you can avoid hospital admissions.
March 30, 2018
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