Bipolar Disorder Course

Course overview

Purpose/Goals The purpose of this activity is to enable the learner to understand how to assess, diagnose, and treat bipolar disorders using evidence based practice. This course reflects the latest diagnostic criteria from the American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Editions (DSM-5). Objectives Describe the etiology and pathogenesis of bipolar disorders including the role of genetics, biochemistry, and psychodynamics. Recognize the four main changes that the American Psychiatric Association made to bipolar disorders in the DSM-5. Differentiate the diagnostic criteria of manic episodes, hypomanic episodes, and major depressive episodes. Understand the diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, gender and culture-related issues, and differential diagnosis for bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymic disorder. Discuss the prevalence suicide in those with bipolar disorder and learn to recognize risk factors for suicide. Understand the proper pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment for each type of mood disturbance seen in bipolar disorders.