Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder
Other namesManic-depressive disorder, bipolar affective disorder
SpecialtyPsychiatry
SymptomsMood instability, behavioral changes, psychosis in some cases
ComplicationsSuicide, self-harm
Usual onset15-25 years of age
CausesComplex
Risk factorsFamily history
Diagnostic methodBy psychiatric evaluation
Differential diagnosisOther bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder
TreatmentPharmacotherapy such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics; supplemental psychotherapy
MedicationLithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics
Frequency~1% of the global population is affected
Deaths15-20% die by suicide

Bipolar I disorder (also referred to as BD-I or type one bipolar disorder) is a type of bipolar spectrum disorder characterized by the occurrence of at least one manic episode. Symptoms of bipolar I disorder typically begin at age 15-25 years of age, with depression being the most common initial symptom. People may also have one or more depressive episodes. Typically, manic episodes can last at least 7 days for most of each day to the extent that the individual may need medical attention, while the depressive episodes last at least 2 weeks. The prevalence of bipolar disorders is about 1% worldwide.