Table of Contents
What factors can contribute to a relapse of bipolar disorder?
Behavior that increases the risk of a bipolar disorder relapse includes: using alcohol and illicit drugs; stopping medications abruptly; taking mood stabilizers and antidepressants erratically; not sleeping enough or well; lacking a social network during stressful times; having conflicts with relationships, at work.
What precipitates bipolar disorder?
Factors that may increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder or act as a trigger for the first episode include: Having a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with bipolar disorder. Periods of high stress, such as the death of a loved one or other traumatic event. Drug or alcohol abuse.
What is a relapse in bipolar disorder?
In bipolar disorder, relapse is defined as the return of depression or a manic or hypomanic episode after a period of wellness.
What is a major predictor for bipolar disorder relapse?
Results: Predictors of episodes include stressful life events, increased number of previous episodes, decreased interval between episodes, and persistence of affective symptoms and episodes. Factors associated with longer survival times include psychotherapy, social support, and medication adherence.
How can relapse of bipolar disorder be prevented?
The following tips may help with preventing or minimising the intensity of a relapse:
- Stick with your treatment plan – that means bipolar-specific medication and psychotherapy for most.
- Make sleep a priority and try to reduce stress.
- Work on maintaining positive relationships at home and at work.
What neurotransmitter is involved in bipolar disorder?
Norepinephrine and serotonin have been consistently linked to psychiatric mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Nerve pathways within areas of the brain that regulate pleasure and emotional reward are regulated by dopamine.
Is bipolar disorder a chemical imbalance?
Bipolar disorder is widely believed to be the result of chemical imbalances in the brain. The chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions are called neurotransmitters, and include noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine.
Can you prevent a bipolar episode?
Can bipolar disorder be prevented? There is no known method to prevent bipolar disorder. Because its exact cause has not yet been determined, it is especially important to know its symptoms and seek early intervention. Regular and continued use of medication can help reduce episodes or mania and depression.
Can bipolar disorder be predicted?
Relapse in people with bipolar disorder can be predicted accurately by their tendency towards having pessimistic beliefs, according to a new study. Relapse in people with bipolar disorder can be predicted accurately by their tendency towards having pessimistic beliefs, according to a study published today in eLife.
How do you deal with a bipolar relapse?
Common bipolar relapse triggers
- Stick with your treatment plan – that means bipolar-specific medication and psychotherapy for most.
- Make sleep a priority and try to reduce stress.
- Work on maintaining positive relationships at home and at work.
- Try to exercise regularly, even if it’s just stepping out for a daily walk.