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We all experience normal ups and downs/highs and lows in daily living. Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that describes something different. The general population has heard of manic – depression, this describes Bipolar Disorder. The individual experiences mood swings between very high (mania) to very low (depression). These cycles can last for days or months. There are changes in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks and/or lead full and productive lives.

More than 10 million Americans have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is often hard to diagnose. It often develops in a person's late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25. Some people have their first symptoms during childhood, while others may develop symptoms late in life.

Symptoms of mania can include

Symptoms of depression can include

  • Feeling overly happy for an extended period of time
  • An abnormally increased level of irritability
  • Overconfidence or an extremely inflated self-esteem.
  • Increased talkativeness.
  • Decreased amount of sleep
  • Engaging in risky behavior, such as spending sprees and impulsive sex
  • Racing thoughts, jumping quickly from one idea to another
  • Easily distracted
  • Feeling agitated or “jumpy
  • Diminished capacity for pleasure or loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
  • Prolong period of feeling hopeless, helpless or low self-esteem.
  • Decreased amount of energy, feeling constantly tired
  • Inability to concentrate and make simple decisions
  • Changes in eating, sleeping or other daily habits
  • Being agitated or slowed down in movement, speech or thought
  • Thoughts of death or suicide attempts

People with bipolar disorder are more likely to seek help when they are depressed than when experiencing mania.

If this disease is not treated it will get worse and the mania / depression cycles will happen more often. With out a correct diagnosis and treatment the individual may have more personal, social, and work-related problems with work, relationships and other areas in their life. Treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. Bi polar disorder can not be cured , and is a life long illness, but with proper diagnosis and treatment the symptoms can be managed. Treatment usually includes a combination of medication, psychotherapy, education, self-management strategies and other supports systems. The combination of medication and psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for bipolar disorder. It can provide support, education, and guidance to people with bipolar disorder and their families

Substance abuse is very common among people with bipolar disorder, but the reasons for this link are unclear. Some people with bipolar disorder may try to treat their symptoms with alcohol or drugs. However, substance abuse may trigger or prolong bipolar symptoms, and the behavioral control problems associated with mania can result in a person drinking too much.