What Is Bipolar Disorder?



Historically, persons with bipolar disorder may have been called simply moody or even insane at times. Later, the diagnosis was called manic-depression. While this term is still sometimes used, the generally accepted term is "bipolar disorder".

The two major phases of bipolar disorder are mania and depression. There are other facets of the illness, but they are all aspects of the two. Bipolar disorder is found equally in men and women. About 1 percent of the population can be found to have bipolar disorder.

Mania can be further divided into two categories: hypomania and full-blown mania. Hypomania is simply a state of intense energy and often high productivity. Those who never go beyond this point in bipolar disorder can be great salesmen or high-powered businessmen. The problem is that, for many, full-blown mania is just around the corner.

Full-blown mania tends to have more devastating effects on the person with bipolar disorder. The activity becomes so intense that ventures are undertaken with no actual potential for success, although the person with bipolar disorder cannot see that fact.

There is no consideration for the consequences of actions. Money may be spent which is needed for basic needs. Checks may be written when there is no money in the account. People with bipolar disorder are also often overly generous and give away things that they highly treasure or cannot afford to give away. They tend to regret these gifts later.

The manic state in those with bipolar disorder can be characterized, too, by a gregariousness that is beyond the ordinary out-going person's. This can lead to, among other things, sexual exploits that will cause unwanted results such as pregnancies, disease, or damage to relationships.

The manic phase of bipolar disorder can lead into a period of psychosis. This is marked by bizarre thoughts, such as delusions, or hallucinations. When in a state like this, people with bipolar disorder cannot protect themselves from hazards in their environments because they no longer know what is real.

Usually with mania, eventually there comes depression. The person with bipolar disorder may retreat into seclusion, may even go to bed for days. Sleeping, appetite, and energy level will all be effected.

The gravest danger for the person with bipolar disorder is suicide. All threats should be taken seriously, of course. However, during the depression phase of bipolar disorder they should be especially guarded against.

There has also been a tern for those who abuse drugs and alcohol to help them cope with bipolar disorder. This is called "dual diagnosis". It occurs especially in adults and teenagers. These addictions further complicate both the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder. However, it seems to go along with the disease in many instances.

People with bipolar disorder have a wide variety of problems to manage. The reason for optimism is that many have found ways, through medication, therapy, routines, and other methods, to have some degree of control.

People have been having problems such as these for centuries. It is just in modern times that there has been adequate help for the condition. The name for bipolar disorder is newer than the disease, but whatever you call it, its effects can range from the difficult to the deadly. Treatment can be crucial.


© 2007 Just Great Advice Inc.
 For more free advice on many different topics visit us today @ JustGreatAdvice.com . If you know someone that may benefit from this info, please feel free to forward this site or page to them.



Comments

I am looking for some type of retreat to help with my depression, I have tried all types of medicines, but nothing is working, the next step is the shock therapy, which I am not ready for. I need help, I can't work, we need the money, I am not functioning at all, I don't cook, clean, I stay in bed most of the time. I have a wonderful husband,, but I have children that need a mother, especially a 19 diabetic son that doesn't take care of himself. Please help. Thanks Debbie
By Debbie Hearn
13th October 2007 - 6:17pm

I just read your post. I have been depressed on and off...mostly on...since I was 18 and I am now 52. I am finally stable after a horrible breakdown. The only medication that worked for me is adderall and lamictal. If you haven't tried adderall...try it. It is a stimulant and highly regulated but it can save your life. Find a doctor who will prescribe it for you. Best of luck.
Depression - By Corby O'Connor
14th January 2008 - 8:33pm

*Name:
*Email:
Website URL:
Title / Subject:
Hide my email
*Comments:
*
 



Menu


My Articles

Exploring The Various Bipolar Disorders
What To Do If You Have A Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis
Celexa And Bipolar Disorder
Childhood Treatment Options For Bipolar Disorder
Latest Medications For Bipolar Affective Disorder
Psychiatric Evidence Of Bipolar Disorder
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Prozac For Bipolar Disorder, Bulimia, And Anxiety
All About Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Borderline Personality Disorder VS Bipolar
Pediatric Bipolar Versus Asperger's Disorder
Treatments For Bipolar Disorder
About Bipolar Affective Disorder
Recognizing Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
CBT As Treatment For Bipolar Disorder
What Are The Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder?
About Type 1 Bipolar Disorder
Famous People With Bipolar Disorder Past And Present
Bipolar Disorder In Children
Concerns Of Bipolar Disorder Self Injury
What Are The Causes Of Bipolar Disorder?






My Articles


Bipolar Disorder In Children Bipolar disorder is a being diagnosed in children as..


Pediatric Bipolar Versus Asperger's Disorder Pediatric bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is a mental..


What Are The Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder? From historical figures to celebrities to everyday people, there are..



Related Videos:

Related News:

 
Hayes Says New Treatments for Pediatric Bipolar Disorder Not Ready ... - MarketWatch

    

Hayes Says New Treatments for Pediatric Bipolar Disorder Not Ready ...
MarketWatch - 23 hours ago
... research and consulting firm, has completed an exhaustive evaluation of clinical evidence behind popular treatments for pediatric Bipolar Disorder. ...



Large study looks at genetic risks for schizophrenia and bipolar ... - News-Medical.net

    

Large study looks at genetic risks for schizophrenia and bipolar ...
News-Medical.net, Australia - Dec 3, 2008
They will study 5000 patients with bipolar disorder as part of a coordinated effort led by MGH investigators, Jordan Smoller, MD, Sc.D., and Pamela Sklar, ...