How can Bipolar Disorder affect my life?

Bipolar Disorder can affect every aspect of a person’s life. In the manic state, a person may spend excessive amounts of money, or make drastic and erratic decisions. In a depressed state, he or she may become hopeless and lethargic, with a loss of interest in things once enjoyed. The emotional ups and downs associated with BPD make living life painful. Since environmental stresses such as life changes or tragedy can set off an episode, a person with Bipolar Disorder may live life in fear of triggering their disorder.

A person living with symptoms of Bipolar Disorder often struggles to have successful relationships and stable employment. Common daily activities become difficult and painstaking. People with bipolar symptoms often turn to alcohol or drugs to help them cope with their highs and lows. Many people afflicted with Bipolar Disorder consider suicide. Without treatment, a person suffering from symptoms of Bipolar Disorder becomes a potential danger to themselves and others around them.