Bi-Polar Disorder

Bi-polar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a mental illness involving episodes of serious mania--extreme energy or excitability and depression. The illness causes a person's mood to swing from excessively high to very low, with periods of a normal mood in between.

An individual with bi-polar disorder has a biochemical imbalance that alters the person's moods and ability to control behavior. People may inherit a tendency to develop the illness, which usually strikes before the age of 35 and is often triggered by environmental factors such as distressing life events.

Symptoms of mania include:
Excessive energy, activity, restlessness
Racing thoughts and rapid/excessive talking
Denial that anything is wrong
Extreme "high" or euphoric feelings
Easily irritated or distracted
Decreased need for sleep
Unrealistic beliefs in one's ability and powers
Hyperactivity and excessive planning
Uncharacteristically poor judgment
Unusual sex drive
Drug abuse - particularly cocaine, alcohol or sleeping medications
Provocative, intrusive or aggressive behavior

Symptoms of depression include:
Sad empty or anxious mood that won't go away
Irregular sleep
Persistent lethargy and fatigue
Change in weight and appetite
Loss of interest in activities
Aches, pains, constipation & physical ailments
Irritability or restlessness
Poor ability to focus, concentrate and remember
Suicidal thoughts and expressions
Feelings of shame, guilt, hopelessness, worthlessness

Treatment is critical for recovery. A combination of medication, professional help and support from family, friends and peers helps individuals with bi-polar disorder stabilize their emotions and behavior. Most people can be treated with medication that brings various neurotransmitters in the brain into balance. Guidance, education and support from a mental health professional and/or support groups can help an individual with bi-polar disorder deal with personal relationships, self-esteem issues and treatment compliance. When successfully treated, individuals with bi-polar disorder can lead very productive and fulfilling lives.