Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression) is a condition which causes extreme mood swings within an individual. These mood swings can quickly change from one extreme to another. People who suffer from bipolar disorder will have episodes of either depression or mania (which is where the name manic depression originates from.)

- The depression phase is where the patient feels very low, sad, lethargic, etc. Often, people who suffer from bipolar disorder will have been initially diagnosed with depression as the depression phase usually comes before the mania phase. An episode of depression usually involves overwhelming feelings of worthlessness and can sometimes even lead to suicidal thoughts.

- The mania phase is where the patient feels very high, happy, overactive, etc. An episode of mania can often involve ambitious thoughts, constant over-excitement, excessive spending of money, talking faster than usual, symptoms of psychosis, etc.

Unlike normal mood swings, extreme episodes of bipolar can last for several weeks (sometimes even a few months.) Some people who suffer from bipolar disorder might not experience a 'regular' mood for a very long time. Occasionally people tend to experience a combination of both highs and lows at the same time, or switch during the day, giving a 'mixed picture'.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary from each individual, some people may only have one episode of mania once a decade, while others may have daily mood swings. For each individual the pattern is quite distinct. Bipolar disorder can commence in childhood, but it is more common to be diagnosed in the teens or early 20s. Some people develop their first episode in mid-to-late adulthood and many people can go for years before it is accurately diagnosed or treated.

Western treatment options for bipolar disorder include medication to prevent manic and depressive episodes, medication to treat the main symptoms and psychological treatment.

Another treatment option that can be used in conjunction with western treatment is Chinese acupuncture. This treatment method focuses on promoting energy flow (also known as Qi) from the surface of the body to the inner organs. Qi is not only critical to spiritual health, but also to emotional, physical and mental health. I have treated many patients using a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine with many successful outcomes. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to call for an appointment.