What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a condition affecting the brain that can cause extreme changes in mood. These extreme mood changes are different from the ups and downs that everyone may go through. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe.
What does bipolar disorder feel like?
Symptoms of bipolar disorder range from extreme "highs" called mania to extreme "lows" called depression. These mood swings, called episodes, can last for days, months, or even longer.
Signs and symptoms of mania include:- Feeling very "high" or overly good
- Feeling very irritable
- Lots of energy with less need for sleep
- Racing thoughts
- Easily distracted
- Taking extreme risks
- Feeling low, blue, or sad
- Feeling guilty or worthless
- Trouble concentrating
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Thoughts of death or suicide
There's nothing wrong with me.
Bipolar disorder is a real health problem. It is not just a state of mind. There is no single cause of bipolar disorder. It may be due to changes in the way brain cells work together. And while it cannot be cured, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can be managed.Taking care of your bipolar disorder every day
Take your medicine as directed every day, even when you are feeling better. This means:
The Right Medicine
Keep all your medical appointments.
Consider talk therapy (psychotherapy).
Consider keeping track of your moods and know your triggers and warning signs.
A regular schedule of exercise and sleep and maintaining a healthy diet may be helpful in managing bipolar disorder.
Avoid drugs of abuse (prescription, nonprescription, and street drugs) and alcohol.
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