Bipolar Disorder
By: Brooke C TB: 2
What is it?
Bipolar disorder is a depressive disorder that affects the way a person´s brain functions. Someone who is Bipolar will go through episodes of mania (highs) and episodes of depression (lows).
Signs or Symptoms
Symptoms of Bipolar disorder vary.
Manic Symptoms
- racing speech and thoughts
- increased energy
- decreased need for sleep
- elevated mood and exaggerated optimism
- increased physical/ mental activity
- excessive irritability, aggressive behavior, and impatience
- poor judgement
- reckless behavior (example: erratic driving)
- difficulty concentrating
- inflated sense of self importance
Depression Signs and Symptoms
- loss of interests in usual activities
- prolonged sad or irritable mood
- loss of energy or fatigue
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- sleeping too much or inability to sleep
- drop in grades and inability to concentrate
- inability to experience pleasure
- appetite loss or overeating
- anger, worry, and anxiety
- thoughts of death or suicide
How does it affect someone?
Bipolar disorder affects both men and women. It affects the way a person thinks, acts, and feels. For example kids who are Bipolar may experience rapid mood changes and high levels of anxiety.
Other Names for Bipolar Disorder
Medical terms are:
- manic depression
- manic-depressive disorder
- manic-depressive illness
- bipolar mood disorder
- bipolar affective disorder
How is it diagnosed?
Bipolar disorder is diagnosed by a mental health professional, psychologist, or psychiatrist. There are four different types a doctor can diagnose you with- Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Cyclothymic disorder, or Bipolar disorder. These four types are based on different symptoms a person receives with this disorder. It is difficult to diagnose since there are no lab tests available to tell.
How is it treated?
Bipolar disorder has no cure. However, a medical professional can help organize a treatment plan to try and control the disorder with mood stabilizers. A counselor or psychologist can provide therapy, and doctors will keep track of a person's symptoms.
Interesting Fact
About 1 in 7 people have a depressive disorder.