Bipolar Disease Defined

Bi-polar disorder affects about one (1) percent of the population, or about 2 million adults in America. It is important that any sufferer, or someone close to a sufferer, knows a lot about the disease. The information regarding definition, types and treatment options of this mental health disorder can assist in helping to manage bipolar disorder.

Clinical Definition

• The clinical definition of bipolar disorder, according to Merriam-Webster's Medical Desk Dictionary, is "any of several mood disorders characterized usually by alternating episodes of depression alternating with mild nonpsychotic excitement."

Types

• There are two (2) main types of bipolar disorders. There is bipolar I and bipolar II. While there are many symptoms that over-lap between the two (2) types, there are a few differences.

Differences

• In bipolar I, the patient tends to have extreme mood swings which alternate between periods of extreme depression, and periods of mania where the patient will experience impulsivity, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts and a variety of other related symptoms. Those who suffer from bipolar II have periods of extreme depression, however, the level of mania is diminished to the point that it could be mistaken for hyperactivity. These similarities and differences come directly from Dianne Hales, noted mental health author and recipient of an award from the American Psychiatric Society.

Treatment

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), treatment can include talk therapy or psychotherapy, and it is extremely important to be monitored by a psychiatrist. Medication is a vital part of treatment for bipolar disorder. Some of the medications taken include anti-depression medication such as Zoloft or Prozac. Lythium, Lamictal, and other mood stabilizers help to keep the patient more stable.

Follow-Up Care

• Because bi-polar is a serious mental health condition, it is important to continue with medications and monitoring by a trained professional.