Selena Gomez recently came on Friends Keep Secrets podcast with husband and music producer Benny Blanco, and she shared how things that she experienced felt confusing to her till the time she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
"I knew something was wrong, but I think I was misdiagnosed," Gomez said. "People were just assuming, and I would try multiple therapists. And that's why it's hard. It's actually really hard when we're talking about these things. And for me to go get a therapist, all of it is so f---ing complicated," she shared on the podcast.
Gomez also mentioned how she went to four different rehabs before she understood her condition finally. Adding to this, Benny also shared that it was difficult to recognize things in the beginning. "She'll start to realise she's having it after it's happening, and sometimes she doesn't even remember when it's happening," the music producer explained on the podcast.
Understanding her bipolar disorder condition helped Selena wrap her head around many things that happened with her in the past. There are a lot of people who would be able to resonate with the singer here. From not being able to understand their own behavioural extremities to struggling to express what they're going through, diagnosing bipolar disorder condition can be challenging at times.
Moneycontrol team reached out to Dr Pavitra Shankar, Associate Consultant, Psychiatry, Aakash healthcare, to understand more about symptoms of bipolar disorder, prevention tips and treatment plan.
Dr Shankar explained that bipolar disorder is a chronic mental disorder that is marked by severe and repetitive changes in the mood, energy levels and activity levels. "Sometimes a person can experience a great mood, high energy levels, less requirement of sleep, and other times, they can feel melanocholic, tired, confused and low on energy," she shared.
It goes without saying that fluctuations in one's mood can influence relationships, performance at workplace and day-to-day functioning also. "It is estimated that bipolar disorder is a complication of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. It normally needs long-term medical and psychological care," Dr Shankar said.
One can exhibit different symptoms of bipolar disorder based on the stage of the disease. "In the manic or hypomanic episodes, patients can experience excessive energy, excessive confidence, chastisement, and agitation. Racing thoughts, decreased sleep, irritability and involvement in impulsive or dangerous activities may also occur," Dr Shankar said.
During depressive episodes, individuals can experience frequent bouts of sadness, lack of motivation, fatigue, sleeping disorders, guilt, or hopelessness, and inability to concentrate. There is a tendency to lose interest in the activities that once seemed pleasant, Dr Shankar shared.
"Such mood changes may take place in cycles, have different levels and last for different duration. The symptoms can interfere with personal relationships, work life and emotional stability, when left untreated," Dr Shankar told Moneycontrol.
Dr Shankar said that symptoms of bipolar disorder can be managed with its early diagnosis and regular treatment. "The therapy typically incorporates mood stabilizing drugs, psychological therapy, and frequent checks of mental health. These help assist people understand what triggers them and learn coping mechanisms," she shared stressing on the importance of seeking therapy.
Having a well-organized lifestyle can also contribute as a major factor in mood stabilisation. "Proper sleep cycle, engaging in physical activities, eating well and not overindulging in alcohol or substances can help a great deal. Regular follow-ups with professionals in the field of mental health and strong family support can be used to achieve long-term management and enhance emotional well-being," she concluded.
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Q. What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
Q. What are the main symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Symptoms include sudden mood changes, increased energy during manic phases, impulsive behaviour, reduced need for sleep, and periods of deep sadness, fatigue and loss of interest during depressive episodes.
Q. What are the different types of bipolar disorder?
The main types include Bipolar I disorder, Bipolar II disorder and cyclothymic disorder, each characterised by varying patterns of mood episodes.
Q. What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause is unknown, but factors such as genetics, brain chemistry, environmental stress and traumatic events may play a role.
Q. At what age does bipolar disorder usually appear?
It often develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, but symptoms can appear at any age.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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