Defition
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is an illness that involves a person’s mood to swing from excessively “high” and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, among other symptoms characteristic of depression. Symptoms of mania can be combined with periods of normal mood.
- 1. Mood Symptoms – Extreme “high” or euphoric feelings, distractedness, restlessness, irritability, guilt, hopelessness and worthlessness
- 2. Behavior Symptoms – Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior, becoming enraged or paranoid if grand ideas are stopped or excessive social plans are refused. May involve abuse of drugs, alcohol and/or sleeping medications.
- 3. Physical Symptoms – Fatigue, or loss of energy or decreased need for sleep; changes in appetite and weight.
- 4. Cognitive/Thought Symptoms – Fatigue, or loss of energy or decreased need for sleep; changes in appetite and weight.
The Facts –
- More than 2 million Americans suffer from bipolar disorder.
- It affects people of all races and backgrounds.
- It usually starts between the ages of 15 and 19 but can begin as late as middle age.
- Bipolar disorder is often difficult to recognize and diagnose.
- No one knows for sure what causes bipolar disorder. Causes may include brain chemistry, family history, use of alcohol and drugs, and stressful or disturbing events
- Symptoms of bipolar may feel good to a person, which may lead to denial that there is a problem
- Symptoms of bipolar disorder may appear to be part of another illness or attributed to other problems such as substance abuse, poor school performance, or trouble in the workplace.
- Studies show that 80 to 90 percent of those who suffer from bipolar disorder have relatives with some form of depression.
- Individuals with bipolar disorder have successful relationships and meaningful jobs.
Why Screen?
Screening for PTSD and other mental illnesses is important because it allows health care providers to identify these illnesses early on, making treatment more effective.
Latest Research?
Research results from a 2009 independent study, conducted by the University of Connecticut, and commissioned by SMH, found that confidential online screenings, which are highly accessible and non-threatening to users – do help with getting people into treatment. The research showed that 55% of study participants who completed an online depression screening sought treatment within three months of completing the screening.
Treatment?
Bipoloar disorder is treatable and recovery is possible. Combination of medication and psychotherapy helps vast majority of people have productive lives
Suicide Risk?
Not all depressed people have thoughts of suicide. But all people who are suicidal are usually depressed. If someone has suicidal thoughts and/or plans for killing themselves, regardless of whether they’re experiencing any of the other symptoms, they should seek immediate help by going to an emergency room, or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255P)