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Convalescent phase of bipolar disorder
1Department of Psychiatry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Bipolar disorder patients may experience a symptomatic convalescent phase after episodes, not a fully well state. This phase, characterized by fluctuating dysphoria, requires supportive psychotherapy for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Mood Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder Research
Background:
- The interepisode interval in bipolar disorder is often overlooked, assuming patients are symptom-free.
- Limited research exists on the period between acute manic or depressive episodes.
Observation:
- A case study details a 15-month convalescent phase following a manic episode.
- This phase exhibited a prolonged duration and a saw-toothed pattern of recurring symptoms.
- Dysphoria was a prominent feature, fluctuating independently of life events and lithium levels.
Findings:
- A distinct convalescent phase with residual symptoms, including dysphoria, is proposed.
- This phase can be lengthy and characterized by symptom fluctuation.
- Supportive psychotherapy appears crucial for managing this interepisode period.
Implications:
- Re-evaluates the concept of 'wellness' during bipolar disorder interepisode intervals.
- Highlights the need for targeted interventions during the convalescent phase.
- Suggests further research into the nature and optimal treatment of bipolar disorder convalescence.