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Bipolar Disorder |
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Identifying bipolar disorder |
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Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes extreme mood swings, along with changes in energy and function. It usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood. Bipolar disorder differs from depression in that it is characterized by one or more manic episodes. A manic episode must last for at least one week and may be characterized by the following:
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increased energy,
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a "high" or euphoric mood,
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racing thoughts,
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decreased need for sleep,
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drug abuse,
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aggressive behavior,
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and denial that anything is wrong.
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Some individuals living with bipolar disorder may experience mania and depression at the same time, and this is referred to as a mixed episode. Some individuals living with bipolar disorder experience psychosis which can be characterized by the following: hallucinations (sensing the presence of things that are not actually there) and/or delusions (holding false beliefs not influenced by logical reasoning).
Often individuals with bipolar disorder have also experienced one or more major depressive episodes which last at least two weeks and may be characterized by the following:
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feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, helplessness,
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a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed,
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increased/decreased sleep,
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weight loss/gain,
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and possible thoughts of death or suicide.
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Both children and adolescents can develop bipolar disorder. It is more likely to affect the children of parents who have the illness. Children and adolescents living with bipolar disorder may experience intense mood swings within a condensed period of time. Children may suddenly erupt into an unmanageable and destructive tantrum, then their mood can quickly shift to an extremely happy and carefree state. Adolescents typically present with more adult-type episodes and symptoms. Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents can be hard to tell apart from other behavioral health issues that can occur in these age groups, such as: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (A.D.H.D.), oppositional defiant disorder (O.D.D.), major depression, or schizophrenia. Hence, if your child is presenting with emotional and behavioral issues they should be carefully evaluated by a mental health professional in order to clearly identify their diagnosis.
Bipolar disorder is an illness that will likely require long-term preventative interventions which typically combine medication and psychosocial treatment. Bipolar disorder can be effectively treated and individuals living with bipolar disorder can live healthy, rewarding and gratifying lives.
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Tip sheet: |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bipolar Disorder
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Websites of interest:
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Author: Kevin Montgomery, LCSW
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