Bipolar Affective DisorderJune 4, 2010Bipolar Affective DisorderThe number of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder continues to increase each year. Bipolar affective disorder affects 2.6% of adults, starting at the age of eighteen. Bipolar affective disorder often develops in late adolescence or early adult years. It is likely that all nurses will be involved in the care of patients with bipolar affective disorder. I would like to carry out further research into effective treatments, to provide an opportunity for the patients I care for and achieve the most positive outcomes. Bipolar affective disorder is a long-term illness that needs to be carefully monitored. There is evidence to show that bipolar disorder has a strong hereditary component. (Nursing, 2006, p. 4). Suicide is more common in the early stages of bipolar disorder, usually as one transitions from one stage to another. Substance abuse can prolong the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Bipolar affective disorder is characterized by unusual changes in mood between euphoria (manic) and extreme depression (depressive). The manic phase is characterized by a euphoric or irritable mood that lasts at least a week. The manic phase often interferes with work and personal relationships. Mania is often the first episode in males. People in this stage require hospitalization to return to normal functioning. Symptoms of mania include: restlessness, increased energy, unrealistic confidence in one's abilities, decreased need for sleep or food, impulsive behavior, extremely irritable, and easily distracted. The three stages of mania are hypomania, acute mania, and delusional mania. In the hypomania phase, patients feel good with excess energy and increased activity levels. The......middle of paper......ar affective disorder. Bipolar affective disorder is a lifelong illness. Families affected by this disease should seek support and receive information about the disease. Education helps to recognize the signs of relapse and also gives the patient the opportunity to lead a life reaching his or her maximum potential. References Steinkuller, A., & Rheineck, J., (2009). A review of evidence-based therapeutic interventions for bipolar disorder. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 1-12. Retrieved June 1, 2010, from http://www.freelibrary.com/_/print/PrintArticle.aspx?id=209535639Murphy, K., (2006). Managing the ups and downs of bipolar disorder. Nursing 2006, 36(10),58-63.Figgis, M. (Editor). (1993). Mr. Jones [movie]. United States: Columbia TriStar FilmDistributors International.