Long-Term Bipolar Prognosis

Bipolar disorder, commonly known as manic-depressive disease is a mental health issue that is controlled with the use of psycotropic drugs. People who suffer from bipolar disorder have periods of euphoria (manic) and episodes of severe depression. A long-term prognosis of bipolar treatment often includes the use of drugs and counseling to stabilize moods.

Suicide

• Adults and children who suffer bipolar disorder are much more likely to commit suicide during the depressive phase of the cycle, especially if they are not being treated or are not following treatment protocol.

Memory Issues

• Memory issues, both short and long term, are prevalent in bipolar patients during all phases. These tend to be more pronounced during manic phases. The cause of memory problems can be caused by either the medication or by the disease.

Substance Abuse

• Substance abuse at some point during their life is high among bipolar patients, especially men, as a method of self-treatment.

Physical Ailments

• Long-term prognosis of bipolar patients shows that they also have a higher incidence of experiencing physical ailments such as high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, gastrointestinal abnormalities and migraines.

Conclusion

• Many bipolar patients do not live a normal life span due to the impacts of suicidal tendencies, substance abuse and prevalence of other physical abnormalities.