Bipolar Affective Psychosis is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior. It is a subcategory of bipolar disorder and involves psychotic symptoms. This condition is also commonly referred to as bipolar psychosis or manic-depressive psychosis.
The term "bipolar" in this context refers to the two distinct mood states experienced by individuals with this disorder. These mood states are known as manic episodes and depressive episodes. Manic episodes are characterized by elevated or irritable moods, increased energy levels, impulsivity, decreased need for sleep, and a distorted sense of self-confidence. Depressive episodes, on the other hand, involve persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low energy levels, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
The additional term "affective psychosis" indicates the presence of psychotic symptoms during the mood episodes. Psychosis refers to a loss of contact with reality, which can manifest as hallucinations (perceiving things that are not there) or delusions (holding false beliefs). For individuals with bipolar affective psychosis, these psychotic symptoms can occur during both manic and depressive episodes.
Effective management and treatment of bipolar affective psychosis often involve a combination of medication (such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or antidepressants), psychotherapy (including cognitive-behavioral therapy), and lifestyle changes. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure stability and prevent relapses, as this condition can significantly impact a person's daily functioning and overall quality of life.
