Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition characterized by episodes of manic highs and depressive lows. Generally, the condition alters an individual’s sleeping pattern i.e., either the affected person begins to sleep more or needs lesser hours to sleep. But it is important to understand that a sound sleep is extremely significant to ensure their speedy recovery.

A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry in October 2017 sheds light on the importance of sound sleep for bipolar patients. The study intended to identify the relationship between sleep and mood episodes so that it gets easier to identify the chances of relapse and enables one to understand some self-management techniques such as, e-monitoring. Led by Cardiff University PhD student Katie Lewis, from the National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH), the research determined that one in four individuals dealing with bipolar disorder are at a risk of an episode of high mood followed by sleep loss.

Sleep Pattern Is Related to Manic And Depressive Episodes

The study was conducted on a large sample of 3,140 individuals who were also a part of the Bipolar Disorder Research Network. They were recruited from different parts of the UK, through NHS community mental health teams and patient support organizations such as, Bipolar UK. The study aimed at determining whether Bipolar Type-1 or Type-2, or any specific gender had any connection to an individual’s susceptibility of sleep loss.

The research was unable to determine the exact factors that lead to depressed state in some and manic in others following sleep deprivation. Lewis said that “It is possible that other triggers associated with relapse in bipolar disorder, such as stressful or exciting life events, medication use or interpersonal conflict, may coincide with the sleep loss that people experience.”

To make things clearer, the team at the National Centre for Mental Health planned to take this study further. They intended to directly measure sleep using activity monitors and were ready to take inputs directly from any individual affected by bipolar disorder.

Professional Help Is Available

Studies have revealed that one out of every 150 individuals suffer from bipolar disorder in India, of which 70 percent are left untreated. It is important to understand that bipolar disorder is a critical mental illness that needs medical intervention. Any sort of delay only worsens the condition. If there’s someone around you who is displaying symptoms of the condition and needs help from an expert, guide them about the best treatment facilities available in your city and other parts of the country.

If you think that gaining an understanding about this mental illness can help, Athena Foundation has the right courses for you. Backed by a team of experienced lecturers who can help you understand the mental health condition in detail, our facility can also help you gain some hands-on experience by dealing with some individuals affected by the condition. So, if this interests you and you would like to know the complete details about the courses offered by Athena Foundation, call us today at +91 9599093700 or drop us a message at info@athena-foundation.com