Bipolar II disorder
Write a term paper that contains five full pages describing Bipolar II disorder from a biopsychosocial perspective.
Describe the disorder in terms of symptoms, describe biological, psychological, and social causes of the disorder and include information about treatment.
Symptoms may be described in terms of emotional symptoms, cognitive symptoms, behavioral symptoms, somatic symptoms, and impairment in social and occupational functioning.
Biological explanations may include the following: Brain structure and function, genetics, hormones, evolution/natural selection, neurotransmitters (oversupply, under supply, dysfunction)
Psychological explanations may include the following: Learning, memory, personality traits, cognition (thought patterns), trauma/stress, emotion/mood
Sociocultural explanations may include the following: Gender roles, socioeconomic status, locations (city or rural), school/education, cultural values, poverty
Treatment may include medications, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, group therapy, client centered therapy
Sample Solution
Bipolar II disorder is a mood disorder characterized by shifts between extremes of depression and hypomania. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, symptoms of Bipolar II can include irritability, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, sleep disturbances and changes in appetite (American Psychiatric Association 2013). Biologically speaking, Bipolar II disorder could be caused by an imbalance in brain chemicals such as serotonin or dopamine (Dugdale III et al., 2018). Psychologically speaking, emotional trauma or difficulty managing emotions can contribute to the development of this condition (Fink & Kraynak 2016). Socially speaking, family dynamics can also play a role in exacerbating episodes; for example poor communication within the family unit or lack of support from relatives may worsen symptoms (Taslimi & Zarghami 2011).
Treatment varies from person to person but options may include psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy which helps individuals manage their symptoms. Additionally medications like mood stabilizers regulate patient’s chemistry levels while antipsychotics are used decrease manic episodes (Walker et al., 2015). Although there is no cure currently available for Bipolar II Disorder it is possible to manage with lifestyle changes along with psychological interventions when necessary. Supportive care structures may also help reduce stressors that contribute to exacerbation of symptomology.
In conclusion, Bipolar II Disorder has multiple causes ranging from neurological abnormalities to environmental difficulties which must be taken into account when seeking treatment. Through supportive care structures including family interactions combined with therapeutic methods like cognitive behavioral therapy along with medications when necessary those affected by this disease have potential to lead fulfilling lives despite their condition.
