Bipolar Disorder Explained: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Bipolar Affective Disorder is a mental health condition characterised by significant changes in mood, energy, activity level and functioning. People with Bipolar Disorder may experience periods of elevated mood (mania or hypermania) as well as episodes of depression. These mood changes can affect relationships, work, sleep, decision-making, and daily life.

At Eastern Suburbs Psychiatry, our psychiatrists provide assessments and treatment for bipolar disorder in adults from our practice at St Vincent’s Clinic in Darlinghurst, Sydney

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Affective Disorder is believed to develop due to a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors. A family history of bipolar disorder may increase vulnerability, although not everyone with a family history will develop the condition.

Episodes may sometimes be triggered by:

• Significant stress
• Childbirth
• Physical illness or brain injury
• Certain medications.
• Grief or trauma
• Sleep disruptions

In many cases, no single cause can be identified.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder involves episodes of elevated mood and episodes of depression. Symptoms can vary between individuals and may change over time.

Symptoms Of Mania And Hypomania

During manic or hypomanic episodes, people may experience:

• Increased energy or activity.
• Reduced need for sleep.
• Racing thoughts.
• Speaking more quickly than usual.
• Impulsive or risky behaviours.
• Feeling excessively happy, euphoric or irritable.
• Increased goal-directed activity.

These highs can feel like extreme happiness, over-excitement, or being full of energy and ideas. Some people become impulsive, reckless in decision-making, or develop unrealistic plans.

Symptoms of Bipolar Depression

During depressive episodes, people may experience:

• Persistent low mood.
• Loss of interest or pleasure.
• Loss of energy.
• Sleep disturbance.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Feeling of hopelessness or guilt.
• Changes in appetite
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Treatment may involve the use of mood-stabilising medication that helps to lessen the highs and lows. These medications need to be taken for at least 12 months but sometimes longer. Often the patient also requires talking therapies that help them to understand their triggers, their vulnerabilities and to gain insight into how their actions may make them vulnerable to future relapse.

Our psychiatrists provide assessment and treatment for bipolar disorder from across Sydney, including the Eastern Suburbs, Sydney CBD and surrounding areas, with patients attending from suburbs such as Darlinghurst, Bondi Junction, Sydney CBD, Potts Point.

For an appointment, please call our practice on (02) 8359 1930 or complete the inquiry form here.