Bipolar Disorder Characteristics

Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue that is usually diagnosed after an individual has had a number of manic episodes, or extended episodes of depression. A manic episode is when a person goes instantly from calmness to an abnormally elevated mood and hyperactivity. There are different types of Bipolar Disorder, and each includes its own characteristics.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

• There are 5 different types of Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar 1, Bipolar 2, Cyclothymic, Mixed Bipolar, and Rapid-Cycling Bipolar.Each type is alike to a certain degree, but determined by the levels of mania and episodes of depression. Each type can lead to poor judgment, health problems, family issues, and even suicide if it is not treated.

Who Can Get Bipolar Disorder?

• Bipolar Disorder is typically found in young adults, but it is becoming more common in American teens and children. Doctors have not found any one specific cause. Many people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder have discovered that other members of their family have it, too. It is not something that can be prevented or cured, but researchers are working on improving medications to help ease some of the symptoms associated with this disorder.

Characteristics

• Most people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder have experienced one or more of the following symptoms: hyperactive behavior, high ego, impulsiveness, extreme fatigue, sadness, changes in appetite, lack of concentration, depression, anger, violent behavior and suicide attempts. All too often, teens and children have been labeled as troublemakers when they actually have Bipolar Disorder.

Treating Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar Disorder cannot be cured, but there are medications and therapy that will help keep it under control. One of the most frequently prescribed medications is Lithium. Most people will need to rely on the medication for the rest of their lives. It is important to keep the mood swings stabilized to ensure health and safety. If you feel that the medication and therapy are not helping, you should immediately speak with your doctor so they can adjust your medication.

Proper Diagnoses

• It is not always easy to determine whether or not someone has Bipolar Disorder. It can easily be covered up by drugs and alcohol. It is also common for a doctor to misdiagnose Bipolar Disorder because drugs and alcohol can cause elevated mood swings and states of depression. Children have been misdiagnosed with hyperactivity disorder. Symptoms will vary with each individual, which makes Bipolar Disorder especially difficult to diagnose. It is important to take careful note of your behavior, so that you can more effectively inform your doctor. The quicker it is treated, the quicker you will regain control over your life.