Chapter 7 | Bipolar Disorder

Mania

A state of breathless euphoria

Bipolar disorders

A depressive disorder that is cut with periods of mania

Symptoms of Mania

• Active and powerful emotions

• Want constant excitement, involvement, and companionship

• Very active

• Flamboyance

• Poor judgment and planning

Bipolar I Disorder

Have full manic and depressive episodes

Bipolar II Disorder

• Hypomanic

• mildly manic episodes alternate with major depressive episodes over the course of time

Behavioral Activation System (BAS)

An evidence-based, structured psychological intervention that treats depression and low motivation by increasing engagement in rewarding, values-based activities

Biological treatments for bipolar disorders

• Lithium: Metallic element that occurs in nature as a mineral salt

• Mood-Stabilizing Drugs: Psychotropic drugs that help stabilize the moods of people with bipolar disorder

  • Lamotrigine

  • Carbamazepine

  • Valproate

Biological explanations for bipolar disorders

• Neurotransmitter irregularities

  • Norepinephrine

  • Serotonin

  • Glutamate

  • Dopamine

• Ion Activity

  • Irregularities in the transport of ions → fire too easily

• Brain Structure and Circuitry

  • Smaller amounts of gray matter

  • Circuit:

    • Raphe nuclei

    • Striatum

    • Amygdala

    • Prefrontal cortex

• Genetic Factors