DiseaseIllness

Bipolar disorder
also known as manic depression
is a life-long illness affecting the chemistry of the brain. In classic cases
it causes severe mood swings from manic episodes of extreme highs to depressive episodes of debilitating lows
with relatively normal periods in-between. According to the National Institute of Mental Health
over 2 million people age 18 and older have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Unfortunately
there is no cure for bipolar disorder at this time. But as with any chronic illness
such as diabetes
heart disease or epilepsy
proper treatment
management and understanding of the illness is crucial. Most people with bipolar disorder can lead full
productive and satisfying lives by taking crucial steps to control and manage their illness.

Some key steps to consider if you or a loved one have bipolar disorder include:

1. Find a mental health professional you trust. A person diagnosed with bipolar disorder needs to establish a relationship with a trusted mental health professional where an open and honest exchange can take place.

2. Take medication as prescribed. This is first and foremost the most important step in taking control of bipolar disorder. It is the one element that needs to be strictly adhered to. In order for medication to work effectively it must be taken consistently and for the long term. It may be tempting to stop taking medication as symptoms lessen and one starts feeling better. However
this could have devastating consequences.

3. Reduce Stress. Mental health professionals typically believe that increased stress can trigger an episode of manic depression. Finding time to relax
sharing extra responsibilities
or simply talking to someone during a stressful event may help to bring on an increased feeling of calmness.

4. Do not become isolated. Do not try to "handle" bipolar disorder alone. Seeking out the comfort and understanding of family and friends is central to a person's treatment. It can be very helpful to join a bipolar disorder support group because the people there understand the feelings and difficulties of living with the illness. They can lend insight and encouragement to a person confronting a diagnosis.

5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is important to establish regular healthy routines such as exercising the same time everyday
going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. Maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep
because erratic sleep patterns can increase the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Do not use caffeine or recreational drugs.

6. Become an expert on bipolar disorder. Become involved in understanding the symptoms and treatment of bipolar disorder and the effects it can have on family and friends. Consult a qualified mental health professional with questions and concerns. Read books about the illness or listen to lectures by experts. Learn as much about bipolar disorder as possible because knowledge is a powerful tool in taking out the mystery of the illness.

7. Enhance life with enjoyable things. Make it a priority to engage in things that bring about feelings of joy
happiness
and accomplishment. Hobbies or activities that enhance a sense of peace or relaxation serve one well in dealing with the confusion of bipolar disorder.


A diagnosis of bipolar disorder does not have to mean the end of one's world; rather it can be considered a new beginning. One that
at last
provides an explanation and ultimate relief from some of the unexplained and destructive behaviors a person might exhibit
freeing them to live rich and fulfilling lives.

Mental health authorities estimate that more than 2 million adults have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder (also called manic-depression)
a chemical imbalance in the brain causing extreme mood swings from manic highs to agonizing lows. Although a diagnosis of bipolar disorder can be frightening and confusing
it is a treatable and manageable condition.

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with bipolar illness
the first step in relieving fear and uncertainty is education. The more you know about the disorder
the less control it will exert over you and others who may be affected.

The National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov)
The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (www.nami.org)
and The National Mental Health Association (www.nmha.org) are just a few of the recognized national organizations providing information
facts and support to anyone who may be directly or indirectly affected by bipolar disorder.

Below are some essential facts about bipolar disorder provided by these organizations that may alleviate some of your concerns and questions surrounding a recent diagnosis.

Bipolar disorder affects many people: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.3 million adults
or 1.2 percent of the population
in any given year.

Bipolar disorder has many potential causes: There does not appear to be one cause for bipolar disorder. Evidence suggests that many components may come into play
all of which affect the chemical balance of certain parts of the brain. Several studies on the occurrence of bipolar disorder in families demonstrate a genetic disposition toward the illness. Other factors may include extremely traumatic life events
chronic illness
alcoholism
and drug abuse.

Bipolar disorder has varied symptoms: The most pronounced symptoms of bipolar disorder are dramatic mood swings consisting of extremely “high” manic episodes to debilitating episodes of depression and then back again with relatively normal moods in between. Behaviors during a manic episode include heightened feelings of euphoria
extreme energy
decreased need for sleep
extreme irritability and distractibility
and increased aggression. Depressive episodes bring about excessive feelings of despair
hopelessness
worthlessness
guilt
and sometimes thoughts of suicide.

Bipolar disorder affects both sexes in children to adults: Manic depression is not selective in who it touches. Women and men are equally affected
as are children and adolescents (although a diagnosis in children and teens is more difficult to determine). A majority of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder have a least one family member with the illness. And children of parents with the illness are more likely to develop it themselves.

Bipolar disorder has effective treatment modalities: Bipolar disorder is treated with medications
called mood stabilizers
to assist in controlling fluctuation in moods. The important thing to understand about bipolar disorder is that it is a life-long
recurring illness requiring ongoing care. In addition to medication
psychotherapy is also prescribed in the management of the illness. Psychotherapy assists people to understand their illness and to develop coping skills to help deal with life events and stressors that may trigger manic and depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder has no cure: As of today
there is no known cure for bipolar disorder; however
it is a treatable and manageable illness. With a close relationship with a mental health professional
a proper diagnosis
and vigilant adherence to taking medications and sticking to prescribed treatment plans
most individuals with bipolar illness lead very productive and rewarding lives.

These are just a few of the facts pertaining to bipolar disorder. It is not a simple illness
yet it is manageable and treatable. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder
do not hesitate to seek information and help. Any one of the above-mentioned organizations can offer you education
guidance
and support. Obtaining knowledge is one of your first steps in alleviating the uncertainty and anxiety of dealing with such a diagnosis.