Bipolar Disorder Treatment

A mood disorder characterized by fluctuations between euphoric peaks of joy/pleasure and devastatingly dark valleys of depression, bipolar can cause dramatic shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and ability to focus or function in a daily routine. People with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and productive lives with proper treatment.

Manic symptoms of bipolar:

• Intense euphoria
• Hurried speech
• Racing thoughts
• Increased agitation or irritation
• Engaging in risky behaviors, including substance abuse
• Decreased need for sleep

Depressive symptoms of bipolar:

• Fatigue, lethargy, or physical weakness
• Extreme sadness, often leading to suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Sleep problems (either too much or too little)
• Low appetite or increased appetite
• Loss of interest in activities once considered enjoyable
• Increased irritability and heightened aggression
• Chronic pain with no known cause

Definition – We all have ups and downs, but if the highs and lows become excessive or unbalanced, these periods of powerful emotion might be damaging to relationships, affect daily life, and may even be life-threatening.

Causes – According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, there is no single cause of bipolar disorder. It can include multiple contributing factors from genetic predisposition and improper biological functioning to environmental factors like stress and trauma.

Stats – More than 10 million Americans have bipolar disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Among those with bipolar who go untreated, suicide is the number one cause of premature death, with 15% to 17% taking their own lives.

Diagnosis – Because of the irregular patterns of the illness, it’s often difficult to diagnose, with people often living an average of 10 years before getting answers. If left untreated, bipolar disorder can result in severe episodes of mania or depression and can be life-threatening.