Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue in which an individual experiences cycles of depression and mania. It is classified as a mood disorder. It is also referred to as manic depression. If not treated properly, affects every aspect of an individual’s life including relationships, school, and career. Many individuals who commit suicide showed symptoms of that were not treated, or they had been diagnosed but stopped taking their medication.

Bipolar disorder is thought to be the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. The extreme mood swings that result are very intense. During the cycle of changing from depression to mania and back again, sleep patterns are interrupted, activity level changes, and cognitive behavior is extremely altered.

There is no known cure for bipolar disorder. It is thought to be a hereditary illness. To live a quality life with bipolar disorder, it must be carefully monitored and controlled. During the depression stage an individual is likely to experience sadness, anger, anxiety, changes in sleep patterns, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating. In severe



cases of bipolar disorder, psychosis can occur during the depression cycle. Psychosis can lead to delusions and hallucinations, further causing difficulty with daily functioning.

During the mania phase and individual is likely to experience hostility, a high sex drive, psychosis, and a feeling of superiority over others. Often the person has a high energy level and speaks rapidly.

It is no surprise that moving from one extreme to another continually is very difficult for those suffering from bipolar disorder. The illness takes its toll on a person’s ability to focus and make decisions. Therefore, it is understood that relationships will be difficult, raising children an almost impossible feat, and maintaining employment very hard. Often employers see the person as lazy and hard to get along with rather than suffering from a mental illness.

If you suspect you or someone you know many suffer from bipolar disorder, immediately schedule an appointment with a doctor or mental health professional. There are various drugs on the market today to help reduce the cycles of bipolar disorder, allowing the individual to focus on daily activities.