Bipolar disorder: finding balance
Mania and depression: stabilizing mood
Dr. Lila Aubry
Psychiatrist
In simple terms
Lithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics: the pillars of bipolar treatment.
A mood disorder
Bipolar disorder alternates manic (or hypomanic) and depressive episodes. Type I: characterized manic episodes. Type II: hypomania and severe depressions. Prevalence: 1 to 2%.
Recognizing mania
Elevated or irritable mood, boundless energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, extravagant spending, risky behaviors, sometimes psychotic elements.
Mood-stabilizing treatments
- Lithium: historical reference, suicide prevention
- Valproate, lamotrigine: alternatives depending on profile
- Atypical antipsychotics (quetiapine, olanzapine, aripiprazole): acute episodes and maintenance
- Antidepressants: to be used with caution (risk of manic switch), always combined with a mood stabilizer
Global approach
Psychoeducation, regular social rhythms, early identification of warning signs, family support, regular monitoring of blood levels (lithium, valproate).
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Acute
- Something that starts suddenly and lasts a short time.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Bipolar disorder: finding balance?
- Lithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics: the pillars of bipolar treatment.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Bipolar disorder: finding balance?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Bipolar disorder: finding balance?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
Related health topics
Mental Health
CBT: the therapy that changes thought patterns
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most studied psychological treatment. How it works and for which disorders.
Mental Health
Burnout: recognizing it before it's too late
Burnout is a work-related exhaustion syndrome recognized internationally. Warning signs, risk factors and prevention strategies.
Mental Health
Generalized anxiety disorder: living with constant worry
GAD affects 5 to 8% of the population. It is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about multiple daily topics.
Mental Health
Generalized Anxiety Disorder: When Worry Takes Over
Generalized anxiety affects 4-6% of adults. It is chronic, often co-occurs with depression, and responds well to evidence-based care.
Mental Health
Panic Disorder: Breaking the Fear-of-Fear Cycle
Panic attacks are intense but brief. The disorder begins when fear of new attacks dominates daily life.
Mental Health
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Treatable Condition
OCD affects 1-2% of adults and rarely resolves spontaneously. Yet effective treatments exist and are underused.