Bipolar Disorder and Addiction

How substance abuse causes bipolar disorder? What's the connection?

A disorder accompanied by episodes of mood swings ranging from depressions to maniacal peaks. It is characterized by extreme mood and energetic fluctuations that produce

psychological instability.

People with bipolar disorder have been shown to be more likely to be substance abusers or

alcoholics. In some studies, approximately 60 percent of participants with bipolar disorder

had a history of substance abuse.

Addiction and alcohol use often result in physical damage to the brain. Apparent changes

occur in the reward system of the brain, making drug use more pleasant and triggering drug-

seeking behavior. People suffering from bipolar disorder may have manic or depressive

episodes.

When they are in a manic phase, they can abuse stimulants like cocaine to prolong this high

energy condition or, when they are in a depressed state, they may turn to sedatives or

depressants to calm their feelings of despair.

Substance abuse can trigger various mental health disorders, including anxiety,

depression, and schizophrenia.

Bibliography

1) https://www.thefreedomcenter.com/can-drug-abuse-cause-bipolar-disorder/

2) https://ibpf.org/the-link-between-substance-abuse-and-bipolar-disorder/

3)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7883738/#:~:text=Evidence%20is%20emerging% 20that%20shows,a%20greater%20need%20for%20hospitalization.

Author

Ms. Preeti Piplani (2nd-year Undergrad), Writing Volunteer at EfferVnteers, India.

Editor: Robinson M, Undergrad, Founder, EfferVnteers, India.