Does Bipolar Disorder Get Worse With Age?

Bipolar disorder is a complex diagnosis, and it's natural to have questions about how it may change over time. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, Georgia, patients often ask us whether bipolar disorder gets worse with age. Let's explore what research tells us and how proper treatment can help you manage symptoms throughout your life.

When Is Bipolar Disorder Typically Diagnosed?

Bipolar disorder symptoms most often emerge in younger adults, which is consistent with many major mental health diagnoses. This timing makes sense when you consider that the brain continues developing through about age 25, and young adulthood brings many significant life transitions and stressors.

Bipolar disorder develops from a combination of biological and environmental factors. Risk factors include:

• Genetics and family history
• Dietary factors
• Chronic stress
• Trauma exposure
• Intense emotional conflicts within families

Can Bipolar Disorder Worsen Over Time?

Similar to other medical conditions that can progress if left untreated, bipolar disorder may worsen with age when proper treatment isn't received. The good news is that psychiatric treatment can help you manage symptoms effectively so you can live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Research shows that older adults with bipolar disorder may experience higher rates of certain medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic pulmonary disease. This underscores the importance of comprehensive care that addresses both mental and physical health.

The relationship between bipolar disorder and other health conditions can be complex. Some medical issues may develop as a consequence of the mood disorder, while others may contribute to how the condition progresses. Additionally, treatments for medical conditions may sometimes affect mood symptoms, and some psychiatric medications may impact certain medical conditions.

Does Bipolar II Progress Differently?

Bipolar I and Bipolar II are distinct conditions. People with Bipolar I have experienced at least one full manic episode along with major depressive episodes. The manic episodes typically last at least 7 days or are severe enough to require hospitalization.

Bipolar II features the same major depressive episodes but without full manic episodes. Instead, those with Bipolar II experience hypomanic episodes, which are shorter and less disruptive.

Both types can change over time if not properly treated. However, research suggests that manic episodes tend to decrease as individuals age. Older adults with bipolar disorder are more likely to experience depressive symptoms and less likely to experience mania compared to when the illness first appeared.

Signs Your Bipolar Disorder May Be Changing

If you're living with bipolar disorder, monitoring changes in your symptoms is important. Watch for:

• Changes in episode frequency: Episodes occurring more or less often than before
• Changes in episode intensity: Symptoms feeling more or less severe
• Shift toward depression: More depressive symptoms and fewer manic symptoms (common with aging)

Symptoms of bipolar depressive episodes to watch for include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in appetite
• Fatigue and low energy
• Changes to sleep patterns
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or helpless
• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Restlessness
• Suicidal thoughts or ideas of self-harm

If you notice any of these changes, contact your psychiatrist. It's also helpful to let people close to you know about your condition so they can help watch for changes.

The Importance of Ongoing Treatment

While bipolar disorder can change with age, there's plenty of reason for hope. With proper psychiatric treatment, support from loved ones, effective coping skills, and careful symptom monitoring, you can manage bipolar disorder throughout your life.

One of the best approaches to long-term management is taking it day by day—evaluating your symptoms regularly and staying consistent with your treatment plan. At Next Step Psychiatry, we work with you to develop a personalized treatment approach that evolves as your needs change.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Lilburn, Georgia

If you're concerned about bipolar disorder or experiencing symptoms that concern you, the psychiatric team at Next Step Psychiatry is here to help. We provide comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and ongoing care for bipolar disorder.