Bipolar Disorder- Facts .
Bipolar disorder is a major mental illness affecting 1 in 100 people across globe. People with BD suffer from periods of depression, or periods of mania (in simple terms extreme lows or extreme highs) for a substantial period; weeks or months, with periods of normalcy in between.
Men and women across globe have equal prevalence of BD, thus the rate is almost equal.
Women, however, usually has a trigger or an episode during one or other hormonal fluctuations in her life cycle for eg on attaining menarche, peri partum, post partum, perimenopausal.
What is unique about BD in women is that the episodes tend to be mixed in symptoms (both depressive and manic symptoms simultaneously) , thus difficult to manage.
Episodes are more often associated with other hormonal imbalances (especially in middle age women - thyroid disorders)
Episodes are more often prolonged and atypical.
Episodes are more often associated with suicidal intents and attempts.
Episodes in women have late age of onset, and seasonality (particular time of the year or associated with particular seasons).
Migraine, obesity, and anxiety disorders occur more frequently in women with BD.
Women suffering from pre menstrual dysphoric disorder more often suffer from comorbid BD.
It is no doubt more challenging to treat #bipolardisorder in #women. But, at the same time it is important to be aware of a disorder with unique biopsychosocial (body-brain-social)triggers and vulnerabilities in women.
Be aware seek help. Always.
Dr Anshul Mahajan
Consultant psychiatrist