bipolar disorder

Bipolar Disorder, also referred to as Manic-Depression is a treatable mental illness. There are varying degrees of bipolar conditions, from milder forms with depressive feelings and occasional higher level energy states, to more intensive forms with notable mood shifts or mood swings. The energy shifts also effect thoughts, for example: sad depressive thoughts with suicidal ideas versus overly creative thoughts that can be irrational with inflated self-confidence and paranoia.  Symptoms of Mania often include:

  • Insomnia, sleep deprivation  (believing you need to stay awake)
  • mood swings (anger, irritability, anxiety, apathy, euphoria, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities)
  • impulsiveness (acting quickly, risk taking behavior) 
  • disorganized behavior, aggression,   excess desire for sex, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or self-harm, unwanted thoughts, delusion, lack of concentration, racing thoughts, slowness in activity, or false belief of superiority)

The condition is chronic and manageable with medication, therapy, balance between rest and activity, healthy eating and adequate sleep patterns.