Question

David went home for Christmas break and found that his mother, who was usually depressed, had just purchased dozens of birdhouses from a local gift store. She'd had each custom-wrapped and was planning to give them to all the extended members of the family and all her neighbors, whom she claimed to love like family. She had spent thousands of dollars. What might be going on with David's mom? a. She had won the lottery. b. She has bipolar disorder. c. She has an overactive hypothalamus. d. She is just depressed.

Short answer

David's mom might have bipolar disorder.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Scenario

In the scenario, we learn that David's mother, typically a person characterized by depression, has engaged in uncharacteristic behavior. She bought an extravagant number of birdhouses, spent a significant amount of money, and expressed unusually high levels of affection for family and neighbors.

Analyzing the Options

We have four potential explanations for her behavior: (a) winning the lottery, (b) bipolar disorder, (c) an overactive hypothalamus, and (d) remaining depressed. Each option must be considered in light of her previous depressive behavior and her current actions of extreme generosity and spending.

Option A: Winning the Lottery

Consider if winning the lottery could explain her actions. While sudden wealth could justify expensive purchases, there is no mention of a change in financial status. Also, this option doesn't necessarily explain the shift in affection toward family and neighbors.

Option B: Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings including manic episodes. During such episodes, individuals may experience elevated mood, increased activity, and impulsive behaviors like spending large sums of money. This aligns with the mother's sudden generosity and spending.

Option C: Overactive Hypothalamus

An overactive hypothalamus affects metabolism and body processes but doesn't typically lead to significant mood changes or altered spending habits. It doesn't seem to fit the behavioral changes described.

Option D: She's Still Depressed

Depression generally doesn't lead to spending sprees or elevated mood. Her actions of spending thousands and expressing love and affection are not common in depressive states.

Choose the Most Likely Explanation

Based on the typical characteristics of each condition, option B (bipolar disorder) best explains the mother's abrupt shift from depressive state to engaging in excessive, happy behaivor marked by unusual financial and emotional expressions.

Key concepts

Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are periods where individuals experience unusual and intense changes in mood and behavior. Often seen in bipolar disorder, these episodes can include a high level of energy and activity.
During a manic episode, people may become overly optimistic, have grand ideas, or engage in risky behavior. Examples include spending large amounts of money, making impulsive decisions, or showing excessive affection.
This behavior is a sharp contrast to depressive episodes that might occur in the same individuals, where they feel sad or hopeless. The shift can seem both surprising and confusing to friends and family.

• Increased energy or activity
• Impulsivity and poor judgment
• Excessive happiness or irritability

Understanding these signs is important in recognizing bipolar disorder, a condition where individuals might alternate between manic and depressive episodes.

Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are significant alterations in the way someone acts and responds to situations. In the context of mental health, these changes can be sudden and noticeable.
People experiencing mood disorders, like bipolar disorder, can show drastic behavioral changes without obvious external cause. For example, someone who is usually frugal might suddenly spend large sums of money.
Behavioral changes can affect relationships, work, and daily life. Being aware of these changes is crucial for early intervention and support.

• Increased spending or risk-taking behaviors
• Changes in social interactions
• Drastic shifts in work or leisure interests

Recognizing and understanding these changes can help in seeking proper treatment and management.

Psychology Education

Psychology education helps us understand behaviors and mental processes. It offers insights into why people act the way they do and how various mental health disorders affect them.
Learning about conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety is integral in psychology. It provides a framework for recognizing symptoms and suggesting appropriate support and interventions.
Through psychology education, individuals can develop empathy and understanding for those experiencing mental health issues. It empowers educators, caregivers, and students alike to approach mental health in an informed and sensitive manner.

• Understanding mental health symptoms and disorders
• Developing empathy and support strategies
• Promoting mental health awareness

With the help of psychology education, communities can foster supportive environments for individuals coping with mental health challenges.