Bi-Polar Disorder
We have all experienced ups and downs in our daily lives. Events might trigger joy or unhappiness in our moods.
Bi-Polar disorder is an extreme swing in moods. This disorder was previously called manic depressive disorder. It involves a shift from mania usually followed by depression.
Manic states have the symptoms of euphoria, huge amounts of energy, sometimes irritability, lack of aneed for sleep, an exaggerated sense of well-being, racing thoughts, sometimes can involve spiritual ideology, poor judgement, and the inability to think clearly and poor decision making. Almost always a manic state is followed by a depressed state.
Depressed states have the symptoms of emptiness, hopeless, tearful, melancholy, loss of interest and no pleasure in daily activities, slowed behavior, feeling worthless, poor ability to concentrate, loss of energy, suicidal thoughts.
People who experience Bi-Polar disorder do not realize how their emotional instability disrupts the lives of those they are close to.
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Bi-Polar disorder tends to be a life-long condition
This condition is often divided into Bi-Polar I and Bi-polar II. Bi-Polar II might be thought of a milder form of Bi-Polar I. In Bi-Polar II the manic state is referred to as hypomania. This state is a milder version of mania and tends to last for shorter periods of time. In Bi-Polar II the depressive states might last longer than in Bi-Polar I. Therapists who treat Bi-Polar disorders think of these different classifications as distinct diagnoses.
Different People Have Different Energy Levels
It is important to remember that individuals have different energy levels. Some people have a natural high-level of energy. They are not to be confused with Bi-Polar disorder. In Bi-Polar disorder the manic
state is an ungrounded state with usually poor decision making, while high energy states can be grounded and thoughtful.
Relating To Someone With Bi-polar Disorder
This disorder frequently results in damage to relationships. People who are trying to relate to untreated Bi-Polar disorder individual frequently become frustrated, scarred, stressed out, emotionally drained, and feel like they are on an emotional rollercoaster. On the other hand, with treatment, individuals with Bi-Polar disorder can become loving partners.
Mis-Diagnosis
Bi-Polar Disorder is sometimes confused with other disorders that have similar symptoms. For example, borderline personality disorder is sometimes confused with Bi-Polar. Expert help is important when making this diagnosis.
Treatment for Bi-Polar disorder is usually a combination of medication and psychotherapy. There are a number of different medications specifically designed to treat Bi-Polar disorder such as lithium and Lamictal. Psychotherapy can help people with the disorder develop skills for learning how to control the various manic-depressive states.
