From high to low, from euphoria to depression, from recklessness to listlessness -- all symptoms associated with bipolar disorders, -- an acute and disabling mental illness. Bipolar disorders are also known as manic-depressions or manic-depressive illnesses. Manic behavior is one extreme of this disorder and depression is the other. Bipolar disorders often start in adolescence or early adulthood and may continue throughout a persons life. The causes of bipolar disorders are elusive, and there's no cure. The signs of a bipolar disorder may persist for weeks or months, causing great disturbances in the lives of those affected as well as their friends and their families. Bipolar disorder can be controlled with medications and other therapies, but if left untreated, the condition worsens. A family history of depression appears to exist in 80 to 90 percent of cases of bipolar disorders. People with bipolar disorders often don't recognize how impaired they are when experiencing a mood episode and how greatly the disorder is affecting their lives and the lives of others around them. Friends, family and primary care physicians are all important in recognizing possible signs of bipolar disorder, and in urging a person to seek professional help. Bipolar disorders can be classified into four different types, Bipolar I and Bipolar II, Cyclothymic Disorder and Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. Psychological health experts separate the condition into these four types because the symptoms of bipolar disorder show up differently in different people. When doctors know what type a person has, they can tailor treatment to that person's specific needs. Bipolar disorders can affect both men and women. In many people, the first symptoms show up in their early twenties. However, research has shown that the first episodes of bipolar disorder may start occurring earlier. The condition often shows up in teenage years, and even very young children can display symptoms. If a family member or friend shows signs of bipolar disorder, one should encourage that person to seek the care of a psychiatrist immediately. |
