Simple first-aid guide to bipolar disorder

This simple first-aid guide to bipolar disorder has been developed to give you an understanding of the condition, the causes, signs, symptoms, and immediate help that can be given to someone experiencing bipolar disorder.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder- a condition that was previously known as manic depression- is a mental health disorder that affects people’s moods, which can swing from one extreme to another.

People with bipolar disorder can have episodes of depression and mania.

• Depression- Feeling low, lethargic, and hopeless.

• Mania- Feeling very high, overactive, and energetic.

• Hypomania – This is a milder version of mania, which lasts for a shorter period.

What are the causes of bipolar disorder?

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but experts believe there could be a number of combined factors that make a person more susceptible to developing the condition.

• Genetics- Bipolar could be linked to genetics, where family members of a person with the condition have an increased risk of developing the condition themselves.

• Chemical imbalances in the brain- There is more evidence to suggest that symptoms of bipolar disorder may be caused by an imbalance in neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

You will need to consider that there are differences between symptoms of a period of depression and symptoms of a mania phase.

Depression period

· Difficulty in concentrating.

· Loss of interest in activities

· Feeling sad

· Feeling hopeless

· Feelings of guilt and despair

· Suicidal thoughts

· Difficulties in sleeping

Mania phase

· Talking quickly

· Bouncing around, full of energy

· Feeling elated

· Easily agitated.

· Easily irritated.

· Saying things out of character

· Doing things with disastrous consequences

· Delusions and hallucinations

What immediate first aid can be given for bipolar disorder?

If a person is experiencing a depressive or manic episode, stay calm and move to a safer and quieter area if necessary.

The person may say or do things that may be hurtful or embarrassing- it is important not to take these actions personally.

Never say to the person they are wrong or that they are making it up because in that specific moment in time, they do believe what they are saying is real.

Communicate with them clearly, ask simple questions, and always listen without judgment.

If the person is experiencing severe symptoms during an episode, they may have a crisis plan. You should be able to refer to this crisis plan.

If you have an honest belief that the person or others are in imminent danger, you must summon the emergency services.

Simple first-aid guide to bipolar disorder

This is one of a series of Simple first-aid guides that have been produced by Dynamo Training Solutions. Dynamo Training Solutions provide first aid for mental health training throughout London, Kent and the South East