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Nov 29, 2025

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Understanding Bipolar Disorder: PSYC353 Lecture Notes

R

Rachel Campanile

@rachelcampanile_ievt

Bipolar disorder is a complex mood condition characterized by significant... Show more

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Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Bipolar Disorders: Types and Manic Episodes

Bipolar disorder comes in three main types: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Each type involves different patterns of mood swings and energy levels that significantly impact daily functioning.

A manic episode, the defining feature of bipolar I disorder, involves at least one week of abnormally elevated mood and increased energy that's present nearly every day. This state must be severe enough to cause marked impairment or require hospitalization. During manic episodes, people experience symptoms like inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, and racing thoughts.

People in manic episodes might engage in risky behaviors without considering consequences. For example, someone might rack up speeding tickets because they believe they're an exceptionally skilled driver. These episodes aren't simply "feeling good" but represent significant changes in behavior noticeable to others.

Remember This: For a true manic episode, the person must display at least 3 symptoms (or 4 if mood is primarily irritable) along with the elevated mood and energy. These symptoms represent a clear departure from the person's normal behavior.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Hypomanic Episodes and Disorder Criteria

A hypomanic episode is similar to a manic episode but less severe. It lasts at least 4 consecutive days with elevated mood and energy levels. The key difference is that hypomanic episodes don't cause severe impairment or require hospitalization, though the change in behavior is still observable to others.

Bipolar I disorder requires at least one manic episode, which may occur before or after hypomanic or depressive episodes. In contrast, bipolar II disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, but never a full manic episode. Both cause significant distress and functional impairment.

Cyclothymic disorder involves numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don't meet full criteria for major episodes. These symptoms must persist for at least 2 years or1yearinchildren/adolescentsor 1 year in children/adolescents, with symptom-free periods lasting no more than 2 months.

Quick Tip: Think of bipolar disorders as existing on a spectrum of severity: cyclothymia (mildest) → bipolar II → bipolar I (most severe). The more intense the mood swings, the more significant the impact on daily functioning.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Specifiers and Causes of Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorders can present with various specifiers that help clinicians better understand and treat each person's unique experience. These include anxious distress, mixed features (when depressive symptoms occur during manic episodes), rapid cycling 4+episodesperyear4+ episodes per year, and seasonal patterns.

The causes of bipolar disorders involve complex biological factors. Genetics play a significant role, with relatively high heritability. Neurochemically, people with bipolar disorder show differences in monoamines - norepinephrine tends to be higher during manic episodes, serotonin remains consistently low, and increased dopamine activity relates to manic symptoms.

Psychological factors also contribute to bipolar disorders. Stressful life events can trigger episodes, while low social support can worsen depressive phases. Personality traits like neuroticism, achievement striving, and pessimistic thinking styles may increase vulnerability.

Did You Know? The brain activity patterns in bipolar depression differ somewhat from those in regular depression, particularly in regions like the basal ganglia and amygdala. This helps explain why treatments sometimes differ between the conditions.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Treatments for Bipolar Disorders

Lithium, a widely used mood stabilizer, helps with both manic and depressive symptoms. It can reduce the risk of manic episodes and prevent rapid cycling, especially for people taking antidepressants. Though effective, scientists aren't entirely sure how it works - theories include brain protection, neurotransmitter regulation, and prevention of dopamine-related damage.

Anticonvulsants (like Depakote, Lamictal, and Tegretol) were originally developed for seizures but work well for bipolar disorder. They typically have fewer side effects than lithium but come with a greater suicide risk. These medications generally "calm" the brain by increasing GABA and decreasing glutamate activity.

Psychological treatments are equally important. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy focuses on stabilizing daily routines and sleep patterns, which helps regulate mood. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps identify and change negative thought patterns, while dialectical behavior therapy teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills.

Pro Tip: Managing bipolar disorder works best with a combined approach of medication and therapy. The medication helps stabilize mood swings, while therapy provides skills to recognize early warning signs and maintain healthy routines that prevent relapse.



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What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

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4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Psychology

76

Nov 29, 2025

4 pages

Understanding Bipolar Disorder: PSYC353 Lecture Notes

R

Rachel Campanile

@rachelcampanile_ievt

Bipolar disorder is a complex mood condition characterized by significant shifts between manic and depressive states. These disorders affect approximately 1% of the population and typically emerge in early adulthood. Understanding the different types, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for... Show more

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Bipolar Disorders: Types and Manic Episodes

Bipolar disorder comes in three main types: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Each type involves different patterns of mood swings and energy levels that significantly impact daily functioning.

A manic episode, the defining feature of bipolar I disorder, involves at least one week of abnormally elevated mood and increased energy that's present nearly every day. This state must be severe enough to cause marked impairment or require hospitalization. During manic episodes, people experience symptoms like inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, and racing thoughts.

People in manic episodes might engage in risky behaviors without considering consequences. For example, someone might rack up speeding tickets because they believe they're an exceptionally skilled driver. These episodes aren't simply "feeling good" but represent significant changes in behavior noticeable to others.

Remember This: For a true manic episode, the person must display at least 3 symptoms (or 4 if mood is primarily irritable) along with the elevated mood and energy. These symptoms represent a clear departure from the person's normal behavior.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Hypomanic Episodes and Disorder Criteria

A hypomanic episode is similar to a manic episode but less severe. It lasts at least 4 consecutive days with elevated mood and energy levels. The key difference is that hypomanic episodes don't cause severe impairment or require hospitalization, though the change in behavior is still observable to others.

Bipolar I disorder requires at least one manic episode, which may occur before or after hypomanic or depressive episodes. In contrast, bipolar II disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode and one major depressive episode, but never a full manic episode. Both cause significant distress and functional impairment.

Cyclothymic disorder involves numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don't meet full criteria for major episodes. These symptoms must persist for at least 2 years or1yearinchildren/adolescentsor 1 year in children/adolescents, with symptom-free periods lasting no more than 2 months.

Quick Tip: Think of bipolar disorders as existing on a spectrum of severity: cyclothymia (mildest) → bipolar II → bipolar I (most severe). The more intense the mood swings, the more significant the impact on daily functioning.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Specifiers and Causes of Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorders can present with various specifiers that help clinicians better understand and treat each person's unique experience. These include anxious distress, mixed features (when depressive symptoms occur during manic episodes), rapid cycling 4+episodesperyear4+ episodes per year, and seasonal patterns.

The causes of bipolar disorders involve complex biological factors. Genetics play a significant role, with relatively high heritability. Neurochemically, people with bipolar disorder show differences in monoamines - norepinephrine tends to be higher during manic episodes, serotonin remains consistently low, and increased dopamine activity relates to manic symptoms.

Psychological factors also contribute to bipolar disorders. Stressful life events can trigger episodes, while low social support can worsen depressive phases. Personality traits like neuroticism, achievement striving, and pessimistic thinking styles may increase vulnerability.

Did You Know? The brain activity patterns in bipolar depression differ somewhat from those in regular depression, particularly in regions like the basal ganglia and amygdala. This helps explain why treatments sometimes differ between the conditions.

Mood Disorders: Bipolar
Prevalence of Bipolar Disorder and Overview
• Lifetime prevalence of approx. 1% for bipolar I and approx. 1% for bip

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Treatments for Bipolar Disorders

Lithium, a widely used mood stabilizer, helps with both manic and depressive symptoms. It can reduce the risk of manic episodes and prevent rapid cycling, especially for people taking antidepressants. Though effective, scientists aren't entirely sure how it works - theories include brain protection, neurotransmitter regulation, and prevention of dopamine-related damage.

Anticonvulsants (like Depakote, Lamictal, and Tegretol) were originally developed for seizures but work well for bipolar disorder. They typically have fewer side effects than lithium but come with a greater suicide risk. These medications generally "calm" the brain by increasing GABA and decreasing glutamate activity.

Psychological treatments are equally important. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy focuses on stabilizing daily routines and sleep patterns, which helps regulate mood. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps identify and change negative thought patterns, while dialectical behavior therapy teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills.

Pro Tip: Managing bipolar disorder works best with a combined approach of medication and therapy. The medication helps stabilize mood swings, while therapy provides skills to recognize early warning signs and maintain healthy routines that prevent relapse.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user