Jul 26 2007
Recognizing the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
We all experience highs and lows during our life. We react to daily events that may make us feel happy, sad or indifferent. Occasionally events happen which lead us to experience extremes of emotion – think about events such as weddings, funerals and the births of our children, for example.
For someone experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, these kinds of feelings are magnified in a severe way, and on an everyday basis. You may have heard of this condition under its better known name of manic depression, so called because it is comprised of periods of mania and depression which alternate with each other.
Sufferers may have episodes of crushing depression, which affect their whole life. These are interspersed with the big highs, where they will feel elated and happy to be alive, filled with desires, longings, plans and many other thoughts and ideas which occur to them during this phase.
The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary from person to person, depending on how severe the condition is in each patient. A doctor can prescribe medication to help reduce the symptoms of bipolar disorder in patients. Treatments are aimed at lessening the symptoms of bipolar disorder, in order to allow the sufferer to lead as normal a life as possible.
Treating the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
It is important to remember that treatments for depression and mania take some time to begin working. Medication should be taken at the specified time every day, and continue to be taken until and unless a doctor informs the patient otherwise. As the medication begins to build up in the sufferer’s system, the extremes of mood that are classic symptoms of bipolar disorder should begin to even out, and become less noticeable to others.
It is important to understand and recognise the symptoms of bipolar disorder. This applies equally whether you suffer from the condition yourself, or you know a family member, friend or work colleague who does. If someone you know suffers from this illness, it can help to recognise any changes in their normal mood or behaviour early on, as it may affect their ongoing treatment.
It is perfectly possible to manage a normal everyday life if you experience the symptoms of bipolar disorder, so long as you take your medication regularly and stay alert to how you are feeling. Recognizing any changes in your behavior is the first step towards managing your symptoms successfully, and for the long term.
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