Bipolar Facts
Bipolar Facts that You Should Know
• If you need bipolar facts to help you or a loved one understand the disorder, hopefully this information can be of assistance to you.
• Bipolar disorder affects about two million adults in America, and the disorder affects people from all races, ages, economic groups and ethnic groups. Unlike major depression, bipolar facts reveal that about an equal number of men as women are affected.
• Although there is a large range in the ages at which people are diagnosed, bipolar disorder is generally diagnosed in people who are in their early twenties, or their late teens. People have been diagnosed in their forties and fifties, as well, however.
• Bipolar disorder used to be known by the name manic depression. It causes your moods to fluctuate, and also affects your energy level and your ability to normally function.
• Symptoms of the disorder include dramatic swings in your moods, from extremely happy and maybe even giddy, to incredibly low and sad. There are generally periods in between when you feel “normal”, which is to say neither incredibly high or low.
• In the manic mood swings, you may feel on top of the world, like nothing can stop you. Bipolar facts say that on the other end of the scale, you may feel much like people do who suffer from depression disorder. This would include feelings of despair, sadness and worthlessness.
Bipolar disorder seems to occur in some families, so it is fairly obvious that genetics have something to do with it. Many people who suffer from bipolar disorder have relatives who suffer from bipolar disorder or serious depression. Other factors include disruption in sleep patterns and stress. Alcohol or drugs may play a part in your bipolar disorder as well.
• Health professionals can treat bipolar disorder, with medications and talk therapy. Most doctors also recommend a long-term therapy to keep the disorder for recurring. Many of the medications used to treat bipolar disorder are known as mood stabilizers, and they can be used effectively in long-term treatment.
• Your mood changes may still affect your life even if you are undergoing treatment. Be sure to be open with your health care professional so that you can work together to make your treatment as effective as it can be.
• Bipolar facts tell you that this disorder has serious effects on your life. Your family may also feel extreme stress if you suffer from bipolar disorder. For this reason, it's a good idea to involve your family as much as you can in your treatment. They can avail themselves of help for families of those affected by the disorder. In this way, they can learn the best way to support you in your treatment, and they can also learn how to best deal with your highs and lows.