BIPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar disorder is marked by two distinctive phases manic and depression; hence the term Manic-Depressive. Bipolar causes shifts in mood, inability to function and carry out daily tasks, affects energy, as well as activity levels.

MANIC PHASE MANIC PHASE

Mood Changes

A long period of euphoria-extremely happy

Life of the party; Socially outgoing; Thrilling

Excessive irritability

Behaviors

Excessive; rapid speech

Racing thoughts and flights of ideas

Taking on several activities and tasks at one time

Restless, Impulsive

Unrealistic Beliefs

High Risk Behaviors, such as dangerous sexual activity, drug use

DEPRESSIVE PHASE

Mood Changes Extended period of hopelessness and sadness

Lost of interest in pleasurable activities

Behaviors Issues with remembering

Tiredness and sluggish

Hard to make decisions, nonchalant attitude

Changes in eating and sleeping patterns

Thoughts of death, suicidal-include attempts

Irritated easily, angry, and restless

PERSONS AT RISK-COMMON TREATMENTS

Bipolar usually onsets in late teens/early adult

Approximately ½ of all cases are before the age of 25

However, some folks may have symptoms in childhood and late adult life.

Treatments

Antipsychotics

Antidepressants

Mood Stabilizers

Psycho-Therapy

RESOURCE

For additional information see: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder/

If you are thinking about hurting yourself, or know someone who maybe in a crisis, seek help immediately

Call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room to get immediate help or ask a friend or family member to help you do these things.

Call the toll-free, 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889) to talk to a trained counselor.

Make sure you or the suicidal person is not left alone.