The Knowledge Board:
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a category of mood disorders, and is clinically referred to as mania. People who suffer from Bipolar Disorder usually have more than one episode of abnormally elevated and deflated mood swings, and are ususally depressed. Psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations are possible from people who suffer from extreme manic episodes. Bipolar disorder is subdivided into categories i.e. Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Bipolar NOS, and Cyclothymia. A person is diagnosed into one of these categories, based on the severity of mood episodes they experience.
Late adolescence and early adulthood are peak years for the onset of the illness. A diagnosis is based on the individual’s experiences, as well as an observation on their behavior. An episode of illness is usually triggered off by distress, and disruption, and runs a relatively high risk of the person becoming suicidal. Research suggests that contributory factors to Bipolar Disorder are:
Most people with Bipolar Disorder do have normal periods, but the number of episodes, they experience depends on the individual. Some have a few episodes a year with each lasting three to six months, whilst they are those who only experience one.
Signs and symptoms of the depressive phase of bipolar disorder include:
persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt, anger, isolation, sleep disturbances loss/ increase in appetite, fatigue,loss of concentration, loneliness, self-loathing, loss of interest in sexual activity, shyness or social anxiety, increase/decrease of energy, irritability, chronic pain (with or without a known cause), lack of motivation, indulge in substance abuse, morbid/suicidal ideation, violent and aggressive.
Bipolar disorder is usually treated with medications and counseling. The medication which is utilized in treating Bipolar are a number of drugs called 'mood stabilizers. Antipsychotic medications, sometimes called neuroleptics, and antidepressants are also used to treat and maintain manic episode. In serious cases where the individual is at risk to themselves and others, then hospitalization may be necessary. However nowadays hospital stays are for shorter periods, due to better controlled medication and physician management.
Misdiagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, is still quite common, making it difficult for the individuals with this condition to receive timely and competent treatment. A good prognosis is possible if the individual receives the right diagnosis and good treatment. With the right treatment, many individuals with bipolar disorder can live full and satisfying lives.
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