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

Many celebrities have talked publicly in recent years about their struggle with bipolar disorder. The list of celebrities range from journalist Jane Pauley, actress Patty Duke and General Hospital star Maurice Bernard. Celebrities have focused much attention on bipolar disorder but still, some are not sure what it is and if they or their loved one could be suffering from it.

Bipolar disorder is recognized by the American Medical Association as an illness. It does not mean someone is 'crazy' or 'bad.' Bipolar disorder is often treated with medication, which has proven successful for most patients.

Bipolar disorder is more than just mood swings. Patients will experience extreme highs and lows in manic and depressive states. Bipolar symptoms vary, depending on what stage the person is in.

If a person with bipolar disorder is in the depressed stage they may:

Appear to have the blues and be sad
Abstain from activities they once 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.

If a person with bipolar disorder is in the manic stage they may:

Seem to have endless energy
Sleep very little
Become easily distracted
Talk excessively
Have lots of self-confidence
Participate in risky activities and act recklessly

Some people with bipolar disorder experience symptoms of both stages in a short period of time. This is called a mixed episode. Some people with bipolar disorder may also have a milder form of mania called hypomania. The person feels good but that feeling can change quickly into mania or depression.

Bipolar disorder is often triggered by an event or stress. Some of these triggers are common. They include:

Interrupted sleep patterns
Alcohol or drug abuse
Medical conditions such as thyroid problems

Some people with bipolar disorder are triggered by stressful events that would seem to bring joy. These events include marriage, a new job or the holidays. Other stressful events include divorce, death of a loved one, diagnosis of a serious illness or work-related problems.

While a doctor or mental health professional needs to be involved in the treatment of bipolar disorder, there are many things a person can do to manage their disease.

Get enough sleep
Exercise
Follow a proper diet
Stay away from drugs and alcohol

If work-related stress is aggravating symptoms of bipolar disorder, the person should discuss their problems with their supervisor if they feel comfortable doing so. They should also identify the major stressors at work and identify ways to deal with them such as better time management. Taking regular breaks can also help alleviate work-related stress.

Most people with bipolar disorder lead normal, productive lives if treated. A doctor or other mental health professional can best advise on individual treatment for bipolar disorder.

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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