A brief explainer on hypomania: Signs and symptoms
Mental health problems should never be ignored
Bipolar disorder, much like any mental health disorder is a serious problem which needs acute attention and care since they are also one of the most commonly misunderstood form of mental illness.
Why is Bipolar Disorder so dangerous?
Statistics suggest that Bipolar Disorder affects close to 2.7% of the global population. While the illness is simply dismissed as a 'mood disorder', bipolar disorder, in various stages, can present itself in different ways. In a bipolar episode, the neurons in the temporal lobe, responsible for your emotional stability and balancing your mood do not form necessary connections and in the absence of this, you go through states of extreme emotional stress.
What is Hypomania?
Hypomania is one of the most feared complications of the disease. It refers to a period of mood-elevated,over-active or excited behaviour which can impact day-to-day functioning and can be well-differentiated from a person's non-depressive state. Experts say that in more than 40% of hypomania cases, patients can often turn psychotic, see or experience things which aren't real. Hypomania is less severe than mania, which can last for a week and can even cause impairment.
While hypomania is very common in those experiencing Type-2 Bipolar Disorder, it can also be triggered by factors such as drug abuse, sleep disturbance and high levels of stress.
Experiencing depressive episodes with Bipolar Disorder can be a trigger for suicide
According to statistics, nearly 30% of those who have been diagnosed with BD will try to attempt suicide once in their lives. The suicide risk for people with Bipolar Disorder is nearly twenty times higher than that of the general population. Bipolar Disorder patients are bound to experience phases of extreme negativity, depression and mania, which may make them susceptible to indulge in risky acts. One can also undergo symptoms of mania during depression or get signs of depression during mania.
What are the warning signs to be aware of?
Even though mood episodes alternate and are usually temporary, suicidal thoughts can be long-lasting. Hence, being aware of the signs of trouble can prevent loss of life. Here are some signs to look out for:
-Exposure to potentially life-threatening experiences.
-Drug or alcohol abuse
-Reclusive and agitative behaviour
-Withdrawal from society
-Going through a phase of extreme sadness, negativity and experiencing low self-esteem
-Indulging in risky behaviour.
-Loss of a relationship/ Death of a loved one
-Change in physical appearance/ recluse
-Verbal or straightforward indicators which talk about a wish to end one's life.
-Not taking medications. Some might even start hoarding medications.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this article is to promote a broader understanding of a mental health condition.