SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE BIPOLAR

culled

Bipolar affective disorder is a psychiatric illness characterised by extreme mood swings. Like a pendulum, the mood of those affected swing from highs of extreme excitement (mania) to lows of depression. In a manic state, the person might be overly happy or agitated, go on a spending spree, party excessively while in a depressive state the person might sleep for very long hours, experience undue fatigue and be sad, unhappy and suicidal. This disorder is extremely hard to diagnose. However there are a number of pointers and signs which can help you know if you or your loved one may be suffering from it.

The signs and symptoms include:

MANIA

• Extreme excitement, highness or agitation
• fast, rapid, sometimes incomprehensible speech
• Lack of clear judgement and concentration
• Excessive bouts of energy, even with little sleep
• Unrealistic beliefs about one's abilities
• Reckless and thoughtless actions (E.g engaging in bar fights, sporadic driving)

DEPRESSION

• Overwhelming feeling of sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of energy
• Sleeping for long hours
• Little or no communication , with a desire to be left alone.
• Physical and mental fatigue
• Feeling worthless
• Changes in appetite
• Suicidal thoughts

Bipolar affective disorder, if left untreated is bound to affect every aspect of one's personal and professional life negatively. If you or anyone you know experiences any of the above mention symptoms, do not hesitate to seek help.

TREATMENT

The treatment of this disorder involves the elimination of triggers (stress, substance abuse etc) and the use of medications prescribed by psychiatrists. Those experiencing suicidal thoughts should visit suicide.org for more resources in tackling this ailment.