Mixed Bipolar Disorder - The Two Types Of The Disease

Mixed bipolar disorder is classified into two types. The type which is known as a mixed state is when both the symptoms of depression and of mania are present simultaneously; the other is rapid cycling. Each presents its own unique set of difficulties; and each requires its own mode of treatment.

Mixed State Classification

In the first form, manic behavior is accompanied by a depressed mood state. This seemingly illogical combination requires intense treatment, as either intermittent or ongoing psychosis and suicidal tendencies can also be present. Difficulties in sleeping, erratic appetite, rapid and inappropriate mood swings, and general agitation are also included in this form of mixed bipolar disorder.

Rapid Cycling

The classification of rapid cycling is given when a person has four or more episodes during a twelve-month period. The severity of the symptoms differ from person to person, and often also from episode to episode. At its worst, there can be clear mood shifts within a one or two-day period.

The erratic nature of both of these forms of mixed bipolar disorder obviously makes this condition quite difficult to deal with, and also more difficult to treat than other forms of this condition. While the ensuing difficulty is to a great extent influenced by the fluctuations of the symptoms themselves, it also should be noted that mixed bipolar disorder frequently does not respond as well to medication as the other types of bipolar disorder. These factors make careful psychiatric supervision absolutely essential.

Difficulty In Coping

The other reason for a person who has mixed bipolar disorder to be under competent care is that this particular form of bipolar poses the most significant degree of general life problems. Logically, when a person is afflicted with either simultaneous manic and depressive symptoms or the rapid cycling, the inconsistency can make coping with everyday life very difficult, and often has a very negative effect on a person's ability to function properly. Not only is this difficult in itself, it can also lead the person to be hesitant in asking for help.

The best course of action in regard to mixed bipolar disorder is for the patient to receive assistance in learning and applying coping skills, in addition to his medication. It is also important that the people in his everyday life be understanding of his particular difficulties. Depending on the individual, the special characteristics of mixed bipolar disorder can range from mildly impairing his general functioning to being completely debilitating.

Avoid Enabling Behavior

Family members, especially, need to learn the difference between being helpful and understanding, and enabling, as the more the patient can be reasonably expected to do for himself the better it will be for him, his self-esteem, and his overall quality of life.

One good idea toward assisting the patient in making the most of his life is if his family members can be directly informed by his mental health practitioner of his prognosis and the best methods of personal interaction. Living with mixed bipolar disorder is not easy, but with adequate treatment and coping skills it can be much better.