Bipolar Disorder and Manic Depression

by Ryan Rafeh

If you already are not aware of this condition, bipolar disorder is "a diagnostic category describing a class of mood disorders where the person experiences states or episodes of depression and/or mania, hypomania, and/or mixed states."(Look at Sources Below)

Bipolar disorder is also known as a manic-depressive illness, which can suddenly shift a person's mood, energy, and their ability to function. As in every person, someone with bipolar disorder has their up's and down's to a much higher level. This is a very serious condition, which can lead to depression.

A sign of this disorder can range anywhere from an usual damaged relationship with a person who is

close to you, poor school/job performance, or even thoughts of, or actual suicide. Major mood swings from extreme happiness to extreme irritability (or vice versa) are the most common symptoms of this manic depression. A sign of depression can also be little sleep or even unrealistic beliefs in one's ability. Other commons signs are spending sprees, denial, poor judgment, and increased sexual drive. People with manic depressions can also abuse medications, drugs, and alcohol. The signs of the depression are the about the same as those listed in the previous posts.

So who can get bipolar disorder or manic depression? Just about ANYONE, including kids, teenagers, and

adolescents. If any of the signs and symptoms occur for longer than a week's period, consulting a doctor is recommended.

Although bipolar illness is a long term illness, there is hope for controlling the episodes (high and low points). Long-term preventive treatment (medication and psychosocial) is strongly suggested. Also a chart of sleeping patterns, treatment, and daily mood symptoms prove helpful. Another form of treatment that can be considered is anitdepressant medication.

http://www.signofdepression.blogspot.com

Sources- Wikipedia.com, National Institute of Mental Health

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