Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mix of depression and manic episodes. It could be equivalent to the highs and lows of a roller coaster ride from an amusement park. Mood swings are normal and during times of crisis or high pressure can be expected. The duration and the intensity of the mood swings not resulting from any external factors can be one of the indicators of a bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of mania/ or a manic episode include:
* Increased energy, activity or restlessness
* Extreme irritability
* Inability to focus thoughts
* Inability to sleep, not tired
* Spending sprees
* Increased sexual drive
* Substance abuse, alcohol, sleeping pills or cocaine
* Aggressive behavior
* Unrealistic belief that one is greater, stronger or capable of anything
* Denial that anything is wrong.
Symptoms of depression/ or a depressive episode includes
* Sadness, excessive crying
* Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and helplessness
* Decreased energy
* No desire to do anything fun
* Lack of concentration
* Irritability
* Change in appetite (too much or too little)
* Somatic symptoms (complaining of physical symptoms that are not caused by an injury or physical illness)
* Thoughts of wanting to harm or kill oneself.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder:
Based on current research, the treatment recommendation is a strategy of mood stabilizing medication and talk therapy. Helping the person track their mood symptoms, sleep patterns and life events not only helps the treatment team but also helps the family of the person with the disorder to better understand the illness. Maintaining a regular course of treatment is an important intervention for this disorder.
Other resources:
www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/bipolar
www.drada.org/Facts/bipolar
www.nami.org