Bipolar disorder is a major mental illness that effects about 1 out of every 100 people.  It is sometimes called "manic depression."

Bipolar disorder causes symptoms that can interfere with many aspects of a person's life.  Some of the symptoms cause severe mood swings, from the highest of highs (mania) to the lowest of lows (depression.)  Some of the other symptoms of bipolar can make it difficult to know what's real and what's not real (psychotic symptoms.)

There are many reasons to be optimistic about the future.

+  There is effective treatment for bipolar disorder.

+  People with bipolar disorder can learn to manage their lives.

+  People with bipolar disorder can lead productive lives.

SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

MANIA

People who have had periods of mania report the following symptoms:

*  Feelings of extreme happiness or excitement

*  Feeling irritable

*  Feeling unrealistically self confident

*  Sleeping less

*  Talking alot

*  Having racing thoughts

*  Being easily distracted

*  Having bad judgement


SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

*  Sad mood

*  Eating too little or too much

*  Sleeping too little or too much

*  Feeling tired or low energy

*  Feeling helpless, hopeless, worthless

*  Feeling guilty for things that aren't my fault

*  Suicidal thoughts or actions

*  Trouble concentrating & making decisions

THE COURSE OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

People usually develop bipolar disorder between the ages of 16 and 30.  People can also have symptoms develop in their 40's and 50's.  It varies in how severe the symptoms are and how much of the disorder interferes with every day life from person to person.

Some people have a milder form and only have symptoms a few times in their lives.  Some people have a stronger form of the disorder and have several episodes, some of which require hospitalization.

Bipolar tends to be episodic, with symptoms varying in tensity over time.  When symptoms reappear or get worse, this is usually referred to as a "symptom exacerbation"  or an "acute episode"  Or a "relapse."  Some relapses can be managed at home, while others may require hospitalization to protect the person or others.

With effective treatment, most people with bipolar can reduce their symptoms and live productive, meaningful lives.