Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a condition in which a person suffers from extreme mood swings, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Patients may experience episodes of overexcitement and be full of energy for a time. Then the person will go through periods of deep or severe depression. These changes can happen quickly, going back and forth. Bipolar disorder can be treated with therapy and medication.
Step 1
Take note if you see wild changes in the personality of the person you are concerned about. Notice if he or she feels unusually sad and depressed at one time, then completely turns around to feel extremely happy, overpowering and never wanting to rest. This does not immediately indicate bipolar disorder, but if these unusual shifts continue they could be signs.
Step 2
Observe if there are any of the signs associated with mania. During the manic episodes, the person may feel irritable or angry. Sometimes he or she will talk very fast and feel very important. There may be racing thoughts and impulsiveness. Someone with this condition may have trouble concentrating or sleeping. It can lead to hazardous behavior, such as spending too much money, abusing alcohol and drugs, or engaging in risky sexual practices.
Step 3
Watch for symptoms of depression that are the exact opposite of the person's previous moods. The feelings of sadness may be so deep that the person no longer enjoys the activities he or she once took pleasure in. The person may slow down, cry for no reason or exhibit feelings of worthlessness and guilt. There may be extreme changes in appetite, trouble recalling things and difficulty concentrating. The person may complain about headaches, backaches and other physical problems. Other signs include irritability, anger, worry, anxiety, pessimism and indifference, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. In severe cases there are thoughts of death and suicide.
Step 4
Be supportive if the person hints at or asks for help, which usually happens during the depressive state. You might be helpful in directing the person to the right medical professional. A doctor can perform a physical examination on the person to rule out any physical problems, such as stroke or brain tumors. A mental health professional can conduct an evaluation, including a look into family history. Genetics may play a role in bipolar disorder.
Tips and Warnings
- It may be difficult to recognize the signs of bipolar disorder in the beginning, the National Institute of Mental Health explains. The extreme moods may seem like the person is responding to different problems. The person may just seem like someone with an unusual personality. In some cases it takes years before a person with bipolar disorder is properly diagnosed. Treatment may have to last throughout a person's life, but it can be managed successfully.
