MOOD DISORDERS

Mental Illnesses are Real Illnesses

Bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is a medical illness suffered by over 10 million American people that causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, thought, functioning and behavior. Changes may be subtle or dramatic and vary greatly over the course of a person’s life.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic and generally lifelong condition with recurring episodes of mania and depression that can last from days to months. This disease usually begins in late adolescence or early adulthood, although it can start in early childhood. Bipolar disorder affects both men and women equally and is found among all ages, races, ethnic groups and social classes.

Most people generally require some sort of lifelong treatment. Medication is available, and psychotherapy, support and education are also essential components of the treatment process.

Symptoms of Mania (the “highs”):

  • Increased physical and mental activity and energy

  • Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence

  • Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior

  • Decreased need for sleep without fatigue

  • Grandiose thoughts, inflated sense of self-importance

  • Racing speech or thoughts

  • Impulsiveness, poor judgment, distractibility

  • Reckless behavior

  • In severe cases, delusions and hallucinations

Symptoms of Depression (the “lows”):

  • Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells

  • Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns

  • Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety

  • Pessimism, indifference

  • Loss of energy, persistent lethargy

  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness

  • Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness

  • Inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal

  • Unexplained aches and pains

  • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide