Bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is a serious brain disorder that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and functioning. From euphoria to depression. From recklessness to listlessness. These are the extremes associated with bipolar disorder, which can be a serious and disabling mental illness. The condition is also known as manic-depression or manic-depressive illness - from manias on the one extreme to depression on the other.
It often begins in adolescence or early adulthood and may persist throughout life.
Its causes are elusive, and there's no cure. The flares of bipolar disorder may last for weeks or months, causing great disturbances in the lives of those affected, their friends and their families. Left untreated, the condition usually worsens. But it can be managed with medications and other therapies.
Signs and symptoms
Bipolar disorder is characterized by an alternating pattern of emotional highs (mania) and lows (Depression). The intensity of the signs and symptoms varies. Bipolar disorder can range from a mild condition to a severe condition.
For many people, signs and symptoms in the manic phase may include:
-
Feelings of euphoria, extreme optimism and inflated self-esteem
-
Rapid speech, racing thoughts, agitation and increased physical activity
-
Poor judgment
-
Recklessness or taking chances not normally taken
-
Difficulty sleeping
-
Tendency to be easily distracted
-
Inability to concentrate
-
Extreme irritability
In the depression phase, signs and symptoms include:
-
Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt or hopelessness
-
Disturbances in sleep and appetite
-
Fatigue and loss of interest in daily activities
-
Difficulty in concentrating
-
Recurring thoughts of suicide
Bipolar disorder > next > 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 >
