Lecture on Bipolar Disorder and Dissociation by Dr. Mike Lloyd

Introduction

• Presenter: Dr. Mike Lloyd, Clinic Director at Seag Clinic
• Topic: Bipolar Disorder and its association with dissociation
• Focus: Overview of Bipolar Disorder, its link with dissociation, shared etiology
• Historical Name: Previously called Manic Depression

Types of Bipolar Disorder

1. Bipolar 1: Manic-depressive disorder, can include psychotic episodes
2. Bipolar 2: Depressive and manic episodes, less severe, do not inhibit function
3. Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclic with brief episodes of hypomania and depression

Characteristics of Bipolar Disorder

• Manic Episodes: Great excitement, activity, delusions, euphoria
• Depressive Episodes: Great periods of sadness, hopelessness
• **Clinical Observations: **Depressive symptoms last longer, manic symptoms are acute
• Statistics: Prevalence is about 2.5% in the general population
• Treatment: Good treatment pathways and outcomes

Diagnostic Criteria

• Focus: Intensity, frequency, duration of symptoms
• Comparison: Bipolar vs. Borderline Personality Disorder - time length of symptoms is key

Dissociation in Bipolar Disorder

• Term: Bipolar Dissociation
• Pattern: Secondary dissociative symptoms due to bipolar dysfunction
• Symptoms: Disconnection, dreamlike states, concentration issues, detachment, memory loss
• Research: Limited but growing

Notable Research Findings

1. Steo et al. 2021: Link between bipolar and dissociation; lower treatment response in presence of dissociation
2. Raj Kumar 2022: 10-30% of bipolar patients have dissociative symptoms
3. Tekken 2019: 35% of bipolar patients had dissociation; depersonalization was most common

Clinical Observations

• Clinical Experience: 10 years in mental health services, no routine screening for dissociation in bipolar patients
• Recommendation: Screen bipolar patients for dissociation using DES2 questionnaire (28-point)

Etiology and Comorbidity

• Shared Cause: Childhood trauma is a significant risk factor for both dissociation and bipolar disorder
• Research Study: 2016 study by Henry and Andreas et al. shows childhood trauma as a strong predictor for bipolar disorder
• Types of Trauma Effects: Affect regulation, impulse control, cognitive function issues
• Conclusion: Likely comorbid conditions, need for integrated treatment approaches

Recommendation and Conclusion

• For Clinicians: Screen for dissociation in bipolar patients to improve treatment outcomes
• For Patients: Understanding dissociation might explain additional symptoms and improve quality of life

Final Notes

• Audience Engagement: Comments and feedback are welcome
• Video Promotion: Like, subscribe, share widely
• Continuation: More videos in the series to follow
• Closing: Take great care until the next video