Bipolar Disorder Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder consists of extreme highs and lows in mood, and thus the two poles. These highs are referred to as mania or manic behavior and the lows are called depression. Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings—from overly "high" and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression.

Bipolar Disorder differs from the common changes in mood that everyone experiences in their lives because of the severity and duration of bipolar symptoms. If left untreated, Bipolar Disorder can disrupt many aspects of daily life.

What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

A depressive or manic episode is medically diagnosed if five or more of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer.

Mania:

• severe changes in mood
• overly-inflated self-esteem
• increased energy
• decreased need for sleep
• increased talking, talking very fast, changing topics quickly, inability to be interrupted
• distracted easily
• increased goal-oriented activity or physical agitation
• disregard of risk, increased involvement in risky behaviors without regard to consequences

Depression:

• persistent sad or irritable mood
• loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• loss of energy
• physical slowing
• significant changes in appetite or body weight
• difficulty concentrating

How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

Proper treatment of Bipolar Disorder can help to alleviate the emotional highs and lows of the disorder. Because bipolar disorder is a recurrent illness, it is recommended that the treatment plan be a long term plan. A strategy that combines medication, alternatives and cognitive behavioral therapy is optimal for managing the disorder over time.

Bipolar Disorder is often much better controlled through continuous treatment. Breaks in treatment can cause fluctuations in mood. Sometimes, even with continuous treatment, there can be episodes of mania and depression. It is important to report any emotional changes to a physician immediately. The doctor may be able to prevent a full-blown episode by making adjustments to the treatment plan. Parents working closely with the doctor and communicating openly about treatment concerns and options can make a difference in treatment effectiveness.

In addition, keeping a chart of daily mood symptoms, treatments, sleep patterns, and life events may help people with bipolar disorder and their families to better understand the illness. This chart also can help the parent and doctor track and treat the illness most effectively.