Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depressive disorder, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe. They are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time. Bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
Bipolar disorder is not easy to spot when it starts. Some people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout your life.
People with bipolar disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called “mood episodes.” An overly joyful or overexcited state is called a manic episode, and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode. Sometimes, a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression, which is called a mixed state.
People with bipolar disorder also may be explosive and irritable during a mood episode. Extreme changes in energy, activity, sleep, and behavior go along with these changes in mood.
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families and often appears in the late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25. Some people have their first symptoms earlier, while others may develop symptoms later in life.
While bipolar disorder can be disruptive and painful for those it effects, treatment is possible. At Advantage Mental Health Center, we provide medication (such as mood stabilizers) and support to help those who suffer from bipolar disorder better manage their symptoms.
Some signs of Bipolar Disorder include:
- Unpredictable mood swings
- Inability to complete tasks
- Changes in energy, activity and sleep
- “Manic” (overly joyful) or “depressive” (extreme sad or hopeless state) episodes
- Irritability
