Bipolar Disorders

Prevalence rate

About 1 in every 100 adults has bipolar disorders at some point in their life.

Gender ratio

Men and women are affected equally.

Age of onset

It usually starts during or after teenage years. It is unusual for it to start after the age of 40.

Research suggests that many causes may be involved, which include genetic factors, environmental factors and their interactions. There is a genetic component of this disorder. Those who carry the genes may develop the disorder when they encounter certain environmental factors, e.g. physical illness or other life stressors.

The patient may have manic or depressive symptoms depending on which way his mood has swung. Usually, the patient will be either manic or depressed, but it is possible for the patient to be in a mixed state. After the first occurrence of bipolar disorders, the patient faces a risk of relapse. If you find these symptoms in your family or friend, professional help should be sought.

Manic phase

In the manic phase, the patient will have abnormally elevated mood and may become overly excited, optimistic, grandiose, or easily get irritated. These feelings can be so intense that they affect the patient’s thinking and judgment. Overestimation of oneself may lead to bad decision making, embarrassing, harmful or even dangerous results.

Main symptoms of mania:

Depressive phase

During depressive phase, the patient will persistently have depressed mood, lose interest or the ability to feel pleasure from most activities, frequently feel tired or experience sleep disruptions. This can make daily living tasks difficult to handle. In severe cases the person may even have suicidal ideations or attempts.

Main symptoms of depression:

Tips for caregivers:

Avoid conflicts:

When a person with bipolar disorders is having active symptoms, they may become impulsive or irritated. Families should be aware that this is a symptom of their illness and respond calmly. Avoid reacting with negative emotions and quarrelling with them.

Monitor closely:

Sometimes it is easier for others to notice the patient’s mood changes than for the patients to be aware of it themselves. Caregivers can help monitor their mood changes and especially notice any sign of a manic episode, such as losing sleep, more talkative, and acting more impulsively. Seeking professional help early when these happen can help prevent or mitigate the manic episode.

Be a good listener:

People in recovery needs support from family and friends, try to be a good listener instead of only telling them what they should do.

Provide regular life:

Provide them with a peaceful and comfortable living environment, and with an organised daily schedule.

Encourage social interactions:

Encourage them to have social contacts; when possible, accompany them to engage in social activities, keep contacts with those they have good relationship or they feel comfortable to meet.

Take care of yourself:

Supporting emotionally disturbed people is a long-term challenge. So carers need to look after their own physical and mental health, to rest and regenerate, and then to accompany patients to get through the troubled time. Ask for help when necessary.