Bipolar disorder
Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Kathmandu: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Long-Term Care
Bipolar disorder causes episodes of unusually high, energetic or irritable mood (mania or hypomania) and episodes of depression, with periods of normal mood in between. It is often mistaken for ordinary mood swings, stress or a personality problem. With the right diagnosis and long-term treatment, most people can work, study and keep relationships.
Key takeaways
- Bipolar disorder is more than mood swings: episodes last days to weeks and clearly change behaviour, sleep and judgement.
- It is often diagnosed late, and depression alone can be mistaken for ordinary depression, so a full history matters.
- Long-term treatment with mood-stabilising medicine plus therapy and steady routines greatly reduces relapse.
- Severe mania, risky behaviour or suicidal thoughts need urgent care.
What bipolar disorder is
Bipolar disorder is a condition of the brain's mood regulation, and it tends to run in families. In bipolar I a person has had at least one manic episode. In bipolar II there are milder high episodes (hypomania) alongside depression. Between episodes many people feel well.
Signs of mania or hypomania
- Needing much less sleep but feeling full of energy.
- Very high mood, or unusual irritability.
- Fast speech, racing thoughts, jumping between ideas.
- Big plans, inflated confidence, or unrealistic beliefs about abilities.
- Risky behaviour: overspending, reckless driving, unsafe sex, or impulsive decisions about work and money.
In severe mania a person may lose touch with reality, and hospital care may be needed for safety.
The depressive phase
The low phase looks like depression: low mood, loss of interest, tiredness, sleep and appetite changes, and hopelessness. Because antidepressants alone can sometimes trigger mania in bipolar disorder, doctors ask carefully about past highs before starting treatment. Read our page on depression for the general picture.
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis is made by a psychiatrist through a detailed history of mood episodes, sleep, family history, substance use and medical health. Family members often notice the highs, so information from someone close is valuable. There is no blood test or scan that diagnoses bipolar disorder, though tests may rule out other causes.
Treatment
- Mood-stabilising and related medicines are the foundation of long-term treatment. They reduce the number and severity of episodes and need regular review and, for some, blood tests.
- Treating episodes. Acute mania or depression is treated with adjustments to medicine and sometimes a short hospital stay.
- Psychoeducation and therapy. Understanding the illness, spotting early warning signs and building a plan for relapse make a large difference.
- Steady routines. Regular sleep, meals and activity, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and managing stress protect against episodes.
Never stop mood-stabilising medicine suddenly, even when you feel well. Stopping abruptly is a common cause of relapse. Talk to your psychiatrist about any concerns first.
How families can help
Learn the early signs, such as sleeping much less or unusual spending, and contact the doctor promptly. Stay calm, avoid arguing with irrational beliefs, keep the home quiet during episodes, and encourage regular medicine and follow-up. Take care of your own wellbeing too.
Living well with bipolar disorder
Many people with bipolar disorder study, work, marry and raise families. Keeping a mood and sleep diary, attending follow-up, and involving a trusted person in the plan help you stay well. See our severe mental illness care or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Is bipolar disorder the same as mood swings?
No. Everyday mood changes are brief and linked to events. Bipolar episodes last days or weeks, clearly change sleep, energy and behaviour, and cause problems in daily life.
Can people with bipolar disorder live a normal life?
Yes. With regular treatment, follow-up and a stable routine, many people work, study and have families. Early treatment gives the best outcome.
Do I need medicine for life?
Most people with bipolar disorder need long-term medicine to prevent relapse, though the plan is reviewed regularly and adjusted. Decisions about stopping should always be made with your psychiatrist.
When is hospital care needed?
When mania is severe, when someone is unsafe or cannot look after themselves, or when there are thoughts of suicide. In an emergency call 100, 102 or 1166.
Further reading
Independent sources on this topic. They did not write this page and do not endorse this clinic.
- Bipolar disorderWorld Health Organization
- Bipolar disorderNational Institute of Mental Health (US)
- Bipolar disorderNHS (UK)
This guide is general information and does not replace advice from a doctor. If you are worried about your health or someone's safety, seek medical help.
In an emergency: Nepal Police 100 · Ambulance 102 · Suicide prevention helpline 1166. Outside Nepal, call your local emergency number.