The facts about bipolar disorder

Question. What is bipolar?

Answer. Bipolar disorder is a treatable illness marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy and behavior. Bipolar disorder also is known as manic depression because a person's mood can alternate between the "poles," mania (highs) and depression (lows). The change in mood can last for hours, days, weeks or months.

Q. What bipolar is not?

A. Bipolar disorder is not a character flaw or sign of personal weakness.

Q. Who does bipolar affect?

A. Bipolar disorder affects more than 2 million adult Americans. It usually begins in late adolescence, often appearing as depression during teen years, although it can start in early childhood or later in life. An equal number of men and women develop this illness. Men tend to begin with a manic episode, women with a depressive episode. Bipolar disorder is found among all ages, races, ethnic groups and social classes. The illness tends to run in families and appears to have a genetic link. Like depression and other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder can also negatively affect spouses, partners, family members, friends and co-workers.

Mania Symptoms

• Increased physical and mental activity and energy

• Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence

• Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior

• Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue

• Racing speech, thoughts and flight of ideas

• Increased sexual drive

• Reckless behavior

Depression Symptoms

• Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells

• Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns

• Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety

• Pessimism, loss of energy, persistent lethargy

• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

• Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness

• Recurring thoughts of death and suicide

Source: www.bphope.com