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At times, a person who has bipolar disorder may feel very happy, full of energy and able to do anything. The person might not even want to rest when he or she feels this way. This feeling is called mania
2 min read
There are several kinds of bipolar disorder. Each kind is defined by the length, frequency and pattern of episodes of mania and depression. Bipolar I Disorder Bipolar I disorder is characterized by one or more manic episodes or mixed episodes
3 min read
The three main things that make bipolar disorder different from ordinary mood swings are: Intensity: Mood swings that come with bipolar disorder are usually more severe than ordinary mood swings. Length: A bad mood is usually gone in a few
1 min read
Bipolar disorder can affect people of all ages. It may begin as early as infancy. When the disorder begins in childhood or early adolescence, it may be a different, possibly more severe form of the illness than when the illness
3 min read
Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) is a treatable illness marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy and behavior. It is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Bipolar disorder is also known as manic
4 min read
Anyone with bipolar disorder should be under the care of a psychiatrist skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Other mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatric social workers, and psychiatric nurses, can assist in providing the person
2 min read
Some people with bipolar disorder receive medication and/or psychosocial therapy by volunteering to participate in clinical studies (clinical trials). Clinical studies involve the scientific investigation of illness and treatment of illness in humans. Clinical studies in mental health can yield
3 min read
As an addition to medication, psychosocial treatments – including certain forms of psychotherapy (or “talk” therapy) – are helpful in providing support, education, and guidance to people with bipolar disorder and their families. Studies have shown that psychosocial interventions can
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In situations where medication, psychosocial treatment, and the combination of these interventions prove ineffective, or work too slowly to relieve severe symptoms such as psychosis or suicidality, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered. ECT may also be considered to treat
2 min read
Alcohol and drug abuse are very common among people with bipolar disorder. Research findings suggest that many factors may contribute to these substance abuse problems, including self-medication of symptoms, mood symptoms either brought on or perpetuated by substance abuse, and
1 min read
Episodes of mania and depression typically recur across the life span. Between episodes, most people with bipolar disorder are free of symptoms, but as many as one-third of people have some residual symptoms. A small percentage of people experience chronic
1 min read
Both children and adolescents can develop bipolar disorder. It is more likely to affect the children of parents who have the illness. Unlike many adults with bipolar disorder, whose episodes tend to be more clearly defined, children and young adolescents
1 min read
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