Bipolar+Depression

Bipolar Depression
By Tim and Mike

Types
Bipolar Disorder is when you have times where your moods are elevated and you are very irritable while other times you are in a state of depression. This usually occurs between the ages of 15 and 25 but can happen at anytime during a lifetime. There are two types of Bipolar Disorder both of which are very serious. A Type 1 disorder it the worst which involves atleast one case of a manic episode in which you lose control of your actions or thoughts. This is the easiest to diagnose from a doctors stand point. The Type II disorder is much more suttle and is often times not diagnosed however it still must be discussed with a doctor. Although you still have mood swings during Type II they are not nearly as bad as the Type I and is often overlooked by doctors or diagnosed as depression.

Public Perception
The public domain does not see this disorder as tolerable in the world. Those with this disorder are often pushed aside because people are afraid of the person having breakouts or losing control. A common phrase that is often used is "Why don't you go get Anger Management" when in fact it has nothing to do with that.

Symptoms

 * Easily Irritated
 * Little Need for Sleep
 * Inflated Self Esteem (Thinking you have magic powers)
 * Bad Control of Temper
 * Lack of Thought Control
 * Reckless Behavior

//Symtoms of Mania//

 * Poor Moods
 * Withdrawal from Daily Activities
 * Suicidal Thoughts
 * Loss of Self Esteem
 * Fatigue
 * Bad Sleeping

Be sure to ask your family about family history and past ancestors with a history of Bipolar Disorder. And if you have any symptoms please call the **National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)** at their toll free number (**1-866-615-6464**).

**Treatments**
Although Bipolar Disorder is almost impossible to fully stop, because mania will usually return. Your doctor can do the following things in order to help with the disorder:
 * Attempt to discover the true cause
 * Trying to avoid hospital stays
 * Prevent harm to self and others
 * Drugs that stabilize moods
 * Electroconvulsive Therapy
 * Support Programs