Bipolar Disorder, also known as Manic Depressive Disorder, is a disorder characterised by unusual shifts between periods of elevated mood and depression. The moods range between the extremely elevated, energised periods of ups (called manic episodes) to very sad, low periods of hopelessness (called depressive episodes).
Bipolar Disorder is a disorder characterised by unusual shifts between periods of elevated mood and depression. The moods range between the extremely elevated, energised periods of ups (called manic episodes) to very sad, low periods of hopelessness (called depressive episodes).
Symptoms:
During the manic episodes, an individual behaves or feels abnormally energetic, elated and happy but is also easily irritable. Individuals during this phase have increased activity levels and often make impulsive decisions with little regard to consequences. The need for sleep is usually reduced during this period.
During a depressive episode, individual may feel tearful, sad, hopeless and/or tired with a negative outlook on life. They may feel very down, worried and empty, with markedly reduced interest or feeling no pleasure in all or almost all activities most of the day. They may experience trouble sleeping. They may have recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
Treatment
Treatment commonly includes both medication and regular psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can help them change their behaviour and manage their lives. It can also help patients get along better with family and friends. Sometimes therapy includes family members.