Not Just "Crazy"- The Story Behind Bipolar Disease

People suffering from bipolar disease are often stigmatized because of their mental illness. Many will say to them that they are "crazy" or they "just need to get a grip on life." The mood swings that are common for those suffering from bipolar disease may appear to be the normal ups and downs of life by family and friends. Those with bipolar disease may be ostracized by their family of friends for taking medications or seeing a therapist.

Bipolar disease is a recognized medical condition. The cause of bipolar disease has been greatly debated by doctors. Some blame genetics, some say it a chemical imbalance in the brain. Doctors and mental health professionals do know that the bipolar disease is often triggered by stressful events. These include divorce, death of a loved one, problems on the job or happier stressors such as marriage or a new job.

Many suffering from bipolar disease report an uneven sleep schedule. Many also report drug and alcohol abuse.

The symptoms of bipolar disease depend on the phase. If a bipolar person is in the depressed stage the person may:

Appear to have the blues and be sad
Abstain from activities they one enjoyed
Have a low sex drive
Express feelings of hopelessness or guilt
Have trouble sleeping or sleep for long periods
Eat too much or eat too little
Be unable to make decisions
Talk a lot about death and have suicidal thoughts.

The symptoms of a bipolar disease in the manic stage are:

Boundless energy
The need for little sleep
Excessive talking
Reckless conduct
Exaggerated self confidence
Participation in risky activities

A person with bipolar disease may also experience, hypomania, where the bipolar person feels good about themselves. At work, they are completing projects. Creativity is high. But this milder form of mania can lead to depression or mania.

If a person suffering from bipolar disease is sad one minute and excited the next, they may be experiencing a "mixed mood." The feeling can go back and forth in a day or maybe during the course of a few hours.

There are two different types of bipolar disease. Bipolar I patients have hypomania but do not experience the extreme manic episodes. Hallucinations and paranoia are symptoms of Bipolar I but are not present in people with Bipolar II. Those who suffer from Bipolar II will not experience mixed episodes.

If you believe you are suffering form bipolar disease, you should seek help for a doctor or mental health professional. In the meantime, there are things you can do to manage your bipolar symptoms:

Get enough sleep
Exercise
Follow a proper diet
Don't abuse alcohol or drugs
Reach out to family and friends

After a person is diagnosed with bipolar disease, treatment varies. Medication is effective for stabilizing the mood. Psychological counseling is often part of treatment for bipolar disease.

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More Bipolar Information

Bipolar Disorder--What It Is And How To Recognize It

Are They Mood Swings Or A Bipolar Symptom?

The Importance of Bipolar Medication

What Does It Mean To Be Bipolar?

Not Just "Crazy"- The Story Behind Bipolar Disease

Bipolar Depression-It's Not Just The Blues