Discussion on Bipolar

by Tonya
(Hartsville, TN)

Bipolar is a mental disease that affects million of people all around the world. According to the Social Security Administration, bipolar qualifies as a disability.

There are many different types of bipolar; bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymiacs disorder, mixed bipolar, and rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. There are many different symptoms, therefore someone might not even know they are affected.

The primary symptoms of bipolar are dramatic and unpredictable mood swings. When a person experiences a manic episode they may not get very much sleep. They tend to talk a lot and are very hyperactive. Sometimes the mania can get out of control. The smallest thing can set a person off into a fit of rage. This can affect others as the person experiencing mania may lash out or try to hurt someone. In extreme cases of mania, a person may hear or see things that are not there.

After an episode of mania a person with bipolar generally will hit a low. This is the depression setting in. Once this happens a person may feel tired and not want to get out of bed. Sometimes they feel worthless and contemplate suicide. They can lose weight because their appetite changes. These are not all of the signs of bipolar, however, it is a good start.

When it comes to treatment, bipolar is a disorder than cannot be fixed overnight. Hospitalization can become necessary if the person starts to behave in a dangerous manner. One way to try and stabilize the bipolar is with medications. Depakote, lithium, Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Seroquel are just a few types of medications that a person with bipolar can be prescribed. A psychiatrist that practices with bipolar patients can determine which prescription will work best on an individual basis. Medication alone is not enough.

Another alternative is psychotherapy. Counseling is also a great way to help anyone that is bipolar. Also, the individual needs a support system of family and friends. It is very hard to overcome this type of illness alone.

In the event that a person with bipolar disorder needs to be sent to a treatment center, there are many to choose from. The Skyland Trail Bipolar Center is located in Atlanta, Georgia. The Rose Hill Treatment Center is right outside Detroit. Florida, California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York are just a few other states that have treatment centers.

Dual diagnosis is when a person with bipolar or depression also has an addiction to alcohol or drugs. Dual treatment centers are available to treat both of the patient's illnesses.