Bipolar Basics
Bipolar is an illness that is little understood by the general
population. Unless you or someone close to you is affected by
it, chances are you have a certain amount of misconceptions. A
basic working knowledge of the illness is in order.
More than two million American adults suffer from bipolar. The
illness typically develops in the late teens or early adulthood,
although it can manifest in early childhood or later in life.
Those affected may suffer for years before being properly
diagnosed.
Bipolar is characterized by dramatic shifts in mood, energy and
ability to function. It can be the source for damaged
relationships, poor job performance and even suicide. The good
news is that it is treatable!
There are two main kinds of bipolar, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1
is more typical and the more severe of the two. Type 1 has
recurrent episodes, or mood swings and is more prone to
psychotic episodes. Type 2's never develop severe mania, but
milder episodes of hypomania that alternate with depression. If
a person had four or more episodes during a twelve month time
period, it is considered rapid cycling.
An explanation of terms is required here. Dramatic mood swings
are referred to as episodes. Psychotic episodes include
hallucinations and delusions and these will reflect the mood the
person is in at the time. Hypomania is a mild to moderate level
of mania. Without treatment, it can become severe or switch to
depression. Mixed states are when symptoms appear together, such
as agitation, trouble sleeping, psychosis and suicidal thoughts.
Both mania and depression have a set of typical symptoms.
Manic symptoms can include: increased energy/activity,
restlessness, euphoric mood, irritability, racing thoughts,
talking fast/jumping from subject to subject, lack of
concentration, insomnia, spending sprees, increase in sex drive,
abuse of narcotics, aggressiveness, and denial that anything is
wrong.
Depressive symptoms can include: lasting sad/anxious/empty mood,
hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, lack of
interest in things once enjoyed, decreased energy, difficulty
concentrating/remembering/making decisions, sleeping too much,
change in appetite, and suicidal thoughts.
Bipolar is a treatable illness. It is up to the patient to
follow therapy. If not, their episodes can become more often and
become more severe.
This is but a very basic introduction to bipolar. It is one of
the remaining few mental illnesses with a stigma attached. With
education, the public will have a better understanding and
eventually, the stigma will be lifted from this illness too.