Person Who Discovered Bipolar Disease

Bipolar Disorder is one of the oldest mental disorders. Its symptoms have been molded by differing theories over time until it actually had its own classification. For many years Bipolar Disorder was linked to Schizophrenia. Francois Baillarger, through his studies, was finally successful in separating the two disorders and Emeril Krapelin finally coined the title "manic depression" in 1913.

Origins

• Bipolar disease is actually one of the oldest known disorders. It can be traced back to the ancient Greeks' medical studies. Aretaeus of Cappadocia is the earliest known person to study Bipolar Disorder.

Aretaeus of Cappadocia

• Aretaeus of Cappadocia was a Greek physician who practiced in Rome and Alexandria. He mixed many different medical styles and schools of thought. He wrote descriptions of medical conditions such as pleurisy, diphtheria, tetanus, pneumonia, asthma, and epilepsy.

Revival of Aretaeus

• Aretaeus of Cappadocia's work was largely ignored until 1650, when it was discovered again by the Richard Burton who wrote the book "The Anatomy of Melancholia" based on Aretaeus of Cappadocia's earlier work. This book was the first to recognize depression as a real disorder.

Effects of Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar Disorder is a devastating mental disorder. It fluctuates from levels of euphoria or high irritability called "manias" to low depression. The cycle may occur in one day or over the course of months or years. It is unknown exactly when a mania or depressive state will occur.

Conclusion

• Since Bipolar Disorder is so volatile and devastating, it is imperative that someone suffering with the disorder get some kind of help or have some kind of outlet for his emotions. If you or someone you know has Bipolar Disorder, please seek help immediately. It is not a condition that simply gets better with time.