Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder which is also know as bipolar disorder, is a mental illness involving episodes of a serous mania and depression. The person's mood usually swings for overly "high" and irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, with periods of normal mood in-between.

Bipolar Disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and continues throughout life. It is often not recognized as an illness, and people who have it suffer needlessly for years or even decades.

Signs & Symptoms of mania include discrete periods of:

Increased energy, activity, restlessness, racing thoughts, and rapid talking
Excessive "high" or euphoric feelings
Extreme irritability and distractibility
Decreased need for sleep
Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities or powers
Uncharacteristically poor judgment
A sustained period of behavior that is different than usual
Increased sexual drive
Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior
Denial that anything is wrong

Treatment:

Psychotherapy: help the person deal with personal relationships, maintain a healthy self image, and ensure that the person takes the prescribed medication and treatment.

Medication: lithium, carbamazepine, and valproate, benzodiazepines, and thyroid medication.

Bipolar Disorder Support Group

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Mental Health America of Augusta

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