It is estimated that 1 to 4% of the population, regardless of cultural or socioeconomic factors, may suffer from bipolar disorder. The person who suffers from it loses control over their moodwhich tends to go through more or less abrupt oscillations and that go from pathological euphoria -called mania- to depression, without these being necessarily related to external triggering events.
bipolar disorder It is a disease caused by multiple genetic-environmental factors and is chronic, episodic and recurrent. For its treatment, drugs are essential, although it is necessary to complement them with an adequate psychological intervention.
For its diagnosis it is essential talk in the office about the differences between sadness, mourning and depression, on the one hand; and joy and mania for another. This gives the patient tools so that he himself is able to make the records (mood charts) of his state of mind.
The psychotherapy plays a great role by helping to rethink, reinterpret and rework the narrated story, identity and approach the future with faith and hope in a satisfying life. Another great pillar is social-community support: family, friends and mutual aid groups allow sadness to be shared and joy to be multiplied.
In any case, the difference is provided by the patient by becoming aware of his problem, getting involved in the process of his recovery (healing). The more involved you are in your own process and treatment, the better the prognosis.
Given this, I would like to emphasize that many patients have stabilized and lead productive and full lives, free from the personal, family and work limitations that mood disorders cause.
*By Cintia Capocasa, Child and Youth Psychiatrist (MN 144929 – MP 236940)
by Cintia Capocasa*
