Bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression or manic-depressive illness. It results in extreme mood swings that can make a person go from being highly energetic and happy to being severely depressed. A chemical imbalance in the brain may cause the disorder, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Genetics may be involved, and many people with bipolar disorder have a family history of it.
Ruined Lives
The disorder is treatable once it is diagnosed, but in some cases it can take years before there is a correct diagnosis. The severe mood swings can cause an inability to carry on daily activities for some people, the National Institute of Mental Health notes. Family difficulties, destroyed relationships, job problems and poor school performance may result. In severe cases, suicide is a result of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms
When in the manic phase of bipolar disorder, the person may exhibit excessive or impulsive behavior. There may be feelings of being very powerful and important. It may be difficult to concentrate on one subject, and the person may talk very fast about a variety of subjects. The behavior may lead to spending sprees, abusing alcohol or drugs and careless actions such as promiscuous sex. While in depression, a bipolar patient may start feeling extremely sad and even start crying for no reason. There may be a loss in enjoyment of activities that were once pleasurable. Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and guilt may develop. There may be thoughts of death or suicide.
Episodes
Symptoms of mania and depression may sometimes occur at the same time in a condition called a mixed state. There is a strange mixture of depressed mood along with energetic activity. In other instances, rapid cycling occurs when there is an increased frequency of episodes.
Treatable
Medication and therapy are used successfully in the treatment of bipolar disorder. The patient may take mood stabilizers or antidepressants. Therapy helps in the understanding of the disorder and how to manage it. The disorder remains for life, but patients can live normal lives.
Support
People with bipolar disorder may be difficult to understand, even for family members. The patient's many mood swings can be highly stressful for the family to deal with. But once a bipolar individual is treated, it is important that he receives support, especially from the family. Counselors often help family members in understanding bipolar disorder and how best to deal with it. There are also support groups for people with bipolar disorder to share experiences.
