Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by episodes, or cycles, of mania and depression. A few of the symptoms that can occur during the manic episodes include overly inflated self-esteem, increased talkativeness, and racing thoughts. Symptoms that someone may experience during his or her depressive episodes are agitation and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed.
If left untreated, the condition usually becomes worse. However, the good news is that people with bipolar disorder can usually lead healthy and productive lives when the illness is effectively treated. The most successful treatment plans are long-term and generally include a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
(Click Bipolar Disorder to read the full eMedTV article, which provides more detail about symptoms of bipolar disorder and who it affects, and also discusses how symptoms of psychosis can sometimes accompany this condition. Or, you can click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
HealthSavvy Sign In
|