Bipolar Disorder and Symptoms
Bipolar Disease, also known as Manic Depressive Illness or Bipolar Disorder, is a mood disorder affecting more than two million people in the United States alone. It is a serious illness, but one that can be treated. Bipolar symptoms and Bipolar Disease, though confusing, can be better treated if you have a better understanding of what it is. Bipolar symptoms are characterized by mood swings. People suffering from Bipolar experience periods of depression, periods described as “normal,” and periods of mania or hypo-mania. Many people also experience mixed episodes, which feature symptoms of depression and mania simultaneously.
What is a Depressive Episode?
Depressive episodes are recognized by symptoms which include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and anger. More than usual, there may be changes in the patients appetites, unusually fatigued and sleeps a lot. People with depressive episodes have little interest in physical activities and their relationship usually suffers. They always have suicidal thoughts and very often want to commit suicide.
What is a Manic or Hypomanic Episodes?
Manic episodes are, essentially, the opposite of depressive episodes. Those who suffer a manic episode may find they need less sleep than normal. They have a higher amount of energy and lower attention span. Thoughts and speech are often racing and disjointed, and ideas are usually expansive or grandiose. They may become irritable or even aggressive. Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes, but to a lesser degree.
How is Bipolar Disease Treated?
Generally, once diagnosed, Bipolar Disease is treated with a combination of therapy and medication. The therapy is designed to recognize and deal with episodes, as well as recognizing “triggers” (situations that cause an episode) in order to manage the illness. Medication helps manage the chemical imbalance associated with Bipolar Disease. The combination of medication and therapy allow people with Bipolar Disease to be able to live a normal, healthy life.
How Can I Learn About Bipolar Disease?
Information has become more available to people who need or want to know more about Bipolar Disease. People with bipolar have become more and more recognized in our society today.
Bipolar Disease is a serious illness that affects many people across the world. The symptoms of this illness can be debilitating, but it can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. And through these treatments, anyone who struggles with the disease can live a normal, happy life. However, people need to have some understanding on the symptoms of bipolar.
