Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depressive illness because it involves episodes, or cycles, of mania and depression. Between episodes, most people with bipolar disorder are free of symptoms, but as many as one-third of people have some residual symptoms. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life.

 

Bipolar Disorder: An Overview

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe -- much different than the normal ups and downs everyone goes through. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news: Bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
 
More than 2 million American adults, or about 1 percent of the population age 18 and older in any given year, have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, some people experience their first symptoms during childhood, while others develop them late in life. Bipolar disorder is often not recognized as an illness, and people may suffer for years before it is properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life
 

Bipolar Disorder: Mania and Depression

Bipolar disorder involves episodes, or cycles, of mania and depression. Episodes of mania and depression typically recur throughout the person's lifetime. Between episodes, most people with bipolar disorder are free of symptoms, but as many as one-third of people have some residual symptoms. A small percentage of people experience chronic, unremitting symptoms despite treatment for bipolar disorder.
 

Episodes of Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Depressive episodes of bipolar disorder include the following symptoms:
 
  • Persistent sad mood
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed
  • Significant change in appetite or body weight
  • Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
  • Physical slowing or agitation
  • Loss of energy
  • Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
  • Difficulty thinking or concentrating
  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
     
(Bipolar Disorder Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD