Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a condition that causes extreme mood swings. The mood swings range from an emotional high, also known as mania, to an emotion low, also known as depression. A mood swing that goes from high to low can lead to a feeling of energy, or extreme irritability. www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955
Bipolar disorder is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain which triggers extreme fluctuations in moods. Other factors that may cause bipolar disorder are psychosocial influences and genetics. It is more common for you to develop the disorder if you have a relative, in the first-degree, who has been diagnosed with it.
Someone with this disorder may show signs by experiencing dramatic mood swings and having difficulty sleeping at night, and usually sleeping during the day. If the signs and symptoms are identified early, the person suffering will be able to help reduce the episodes by reducing stress. For example, if one is beginning to feel overwhelmed, they can know to take a break before the stress level increases and causes an episode. Some examples of bipolar manic episodes are seeking extreme pleasure and increased amount of talking. This usually consists of participating in risky behavior or making impulsive decisions, such as quitting your job. Excessive talking would be out of character for this person and rather than talking, they are rambling on about nothing. www.onlinepsychologydegree.info/lists/5-examples-of-bipolar-manic-episodes/
There are commonly three ways to diagnosis the disorder; a physical exam, a psychiatric assessment, and mood charting. There is currently no cure for bipolar disorder, only treatments that can assist with the symptoms. Some treatments include medications, day treatment programs, and hospitalization. The treatment prescribed to a patient is based on their particular symptoms. Medications include mood stabilizers, such as Lithobid and Lamictal, antipsychotics, such as Zyprexa and Abilify, and antidepressants. Day programs are programs that allow the person struggling with the disorder to be able to receive counseling while getting their symptoms under control. Hospitalization is only recommended if the patient is behaving dangerously, feeling suicidal, or feeling detached from reality.
Carrie Fisher, an actress in Star Wars, opened up about her bipolar disorder and described her manic episode symptoms. She shared that during one of her manic phases she cut off her hair, got a tattoo, and wanted to convert to a different religion. Demi Lovato is also a famous star who struggled with bipolar disorder. She was wrongly diagnosed with depression, and at the age of 22, correctly diagnosed with bipolar disorder during rehab. Demi’s goal of sharing her story is to give others the power to talk about their symptoms and receive help if they need it. https://people.com/health/celebs-bipolar-disorder/?