"A distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, lasting at least 1 week (or any duration if hospitalisation is necessary)."
Co-occurring illnesses can be difficult for your Doctor.
Even medical professionals can sometimes find it difficult to see both mental illness and substance misuse in a single person. That’s why it’s important to be honest with your doctor and notify him/her of any problems with alcohol or substances. This will greatly improve your chances of receiving an appropriate diagnosis and adequate care.
The co-occurrence of Bipolar Disorder with psychiatric and other disorders is high, with the most common coexisting conditions being anxiety disorders and substance misuse.
Anxiety and other illnesses commonly seen with Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety disorders are 10 times more likely in people with Bipolar Disorder, compared to the general population (52% vs. 5.2%). Anxiety disorders that are common in the bipolar population are panic disorder, generalised anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Often, anxiety symptoms are the earliest to manifest clinically and many people describe anxiety as a primary component of their mania.
It is really important to share as much as you can about your symptoms with your doctor as this can result in more appropriate treatment and care plans.
Alcohol and Substance Misuse
Substance misuse and mental health disorders may be linked with one being the cause of the other. For instance, mental health problems may lead to substance misuse due to attempts at alleviating the symptoms or self–medication.
Studies have shown that people with Bipolar Disorder are much more likely to misuse alcohol and other substances, compared to people with other mental illnesses. Commonly misused substances include illicit drugs, caffeine and nicotine. Apart from the complications that may arise in treatment, these substances can worsen the long-term course of the illness and the overall outcomes.
