Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness which consists of mood swings ranging from

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1 Bipolar Disorder Introduction Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness which consists of mood swings ranging from the lowest imaginable form of depression to the highest levels of mania. Because of this Bipolar Disorder is often referred to as Manic-depressive disorder. Bipolar Disorder is an illness that is very common and far reaching so it touches many of our lives. The mood swings experienced by those with Bipolar Disorder are different from the normal ups and downs that we all go through everyone once in a while (Clinic). It is important that we as a community don t dismiss the signs of Bipolar Disorder in those we know. Instead we should treat them with compassion and help them get the kinds of treatment that will give them their lives back. Manic Phase of Bipolar Disorder For some people with Bipolar Disorder their main concern is dealing with the manic symptoms of their disease. Symptoms of the manic phase can include: euphoria, Inflated self-esteem, poor judgment, rapid speech, racing thoughts, aggressive behavior, agitation or irritation, increased physical activity, risky behavior, spending sprees or unwise financial choices, increased drive to achieve goals, increased sex drive, decreased need for sleep, easily distracted, careless or dangerous use of drugs and alcohol, frequent absences from school or work, delusions, and poor performance at school or work (Goodwin). Depending on the severity these symptoms can really ruin someone s life and hurt all the people who care for them too. Often those with Bipolar Disorder won t even recognize how much their emotional instability disrupts lives.

2 The manic phase in children and youth is most vividly seen because they have very little experience in trying to control their symptoms. We see them have explosive tempers, rapid mood swings, reckless behavior and aggression. But the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder in children is still very controversial as there are several other mental illnesses that have similar manic-like symptoms. What we do know is that at least half of all cases of Bipolar Disorder start before age 25. Depressive Phase of Bipolar Disease The other end of the spectrum in Bipolar Disease is the depressive phase. Symptoms of the depressive phase can include: sadness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts or behavior, anxiety, guilt, sleep problems, low or increased appetite, fatigue, loss of interest in activities once considered enjoyable, problems concentrating, irritability, pain without a known cause, frequent absences from school or work, as well as poor performance at school or work. It seems like the depressive phase is one that really bothers those who suffer from Bipolar Disorder the most. No one likes to go through prolonged feelings of hopelessness. Feeling tired or slowed down can be just as disrupting as being overly aggressive and reckless. The worst thing imaginable has to be dealing with the feelings of suicide. When those with Bipolar Disorder are at their lowest they believe that their only escape from the hopelessness is to end their lives. This is where those who love and care for those with Bipolar Disorder must be most vigilant (Bergen).

3 Causes of Bipolar Disorder There is not one single factor that has been determined to be the cause of Bipolar Disorder. Because of this there are widespread problems with social stigma, stereotypes, and prejudice against those suffering from Bipolar Disorder. What is known is that both genetic and environmental factors are believed to lead to Bipolar Disorder (Bipolar). Some studies suggest that children with a parent or sibling with Bipolar Disorder are much more likely to be genetically disposed to developing the disease. But because there are also studies that conclude that the twin of a person with Bipolar Disorder does not always develop the disorder, there must also be factors besides genes that cause it. Environmental factors like periods of high stress, drug or alcohol abuse, major life changes and other harsh experiences of abuse are reported by 30-50% of all adults diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. Treatment for Bipolar Disorder Until the causes are determined with greater accuracy, and those who deal with Bipolar Disorder are able to diagnose their disease, it will be very difficult to get it under control. But that is not to say that there are not very effective treatments for those suffering from Bipolar Disorder. Treatments range from prescribed medications to psychotherapy to electrical currents passing through your brain to the most extreme cases being taken care of through hospitalization. Over the long term, continued treatment seems to be very effective and can give most people a high quality of life.

4 The most popular prescribed medication for treatment of Bipolar Disorder is Lithium. Lithium stabilizes mood and prevents extreme highs and extreme lows for many forms of Bipolar Disorder. It has been used for many years, and even though it can cause thyroid and kidney problems, it is widely accepted as the first line of defense for treatment. Other side effects, which are less severe, but still very common, are restlessness, dry mouth and digestive issues. It is also important for those who suffer from Bipolar Disorder to modify their lifestyles as part of an effective treatment plan (Millon). It is best if they quit drinking and using illegal drugs because this can further enhance risk taking behaviors and lead to uncontrolled highs and lows. Unhealthy relationships are not encouraged. Regular exercise helps steady moods as working out releases positive chemicals called endorphins causing regular sleep and other benefits. What Can We Do Help Those With Bipolar Disorder We have a responsibility to help our family and friends with Bipolar Disorder to effectively deal with their disease. Just like people who deal with cancer or other illnesses, Bipolar Disorder is not something to be ashamed of or to shy away from. We should offer emotional support, understanding, patience and encouragement to them (Yatham). We should learn about Bipolar Disorder so we can understand what they are experiencing. And we should always remind them that with time and treatment they can get better.

5 Bibliography Bergen, M. (1999). Riding the Roller Coaster: Living with Mood Disorders. Wood Lake Publishing. ISBN "Bipolar Disorder." NIMH RSS. National Instatute of Mental Health. Web. 18 May < Clinic Staff, Mayo. "Bipolar Disorder." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 18 Jan Web. 19 May < Goodwin, F. K.; Jamison, K. R. (1990). Manic-Depressive Illness. New York; Oxford University Press. ISBN Millon, Theodore (1996). Disorders of Personality: DSM-IT-TM and Beyond. New York: John Wiley and Sons. ISBN Yatham, Lakshmi (2010). Bipolar Disorder. New York: John Wiley and Sons. ISBN