Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental disorder characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and behavior. It is marked by alternating periods of mania (feeling abnormally energetic and happy) and depression (feeling abnormally low and sad). People with bipolar disorder may also experience episodes of hypomania, which is a milder form of mania.
Identifying Signs of Bipolar Disorder
When evaluating whether someone is bipolar, it is important to look for signs and symptoms of mania and depression. Some common signs of mania may include:
• Feeling abnormally happy, energetic, and talkative
• Racing thoughts and talking faster than usual
• Sleeping less and feeling less need for sleep
• Making impulsive decisions or engaging in reckless behaviors
• Having an inflated sense of self-importance
Some common signs of depression may include:
• Feeling sad, hopeless, and empty
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Sleeping too much or feeling a need to sleep all the time
• Feeling slowed down or sluggish
• Having difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
Determining If It's Bipolar or Stress
It can be difficult to distinguish between bipolar disorder and stress, as they can share many of the same symptoms. Therefore, it is important to consult a mental health professional to accurately diagnose a condition. Here are some tips to help determine if it is bipolar disorder or stress:
• Consider how long the symptoms have been present. Stress is typically short-lived, while bipolar disorder is more long-term.
• Examine how the symptoms affect daily functioning. Stress can make it difficult to concentrate, but bipolar disorder can interfere with the ability to work or maintain relationships.
• Evaluate if there is a family history of bipolar disorder. If someone in the family has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it may be more likely that the symptoms are due to this condition.
Getting Help
If you think you may be bipolar or are experiencing stress-related symptoms, it is important to seek help. Mental health professionals can assess symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis. They can also provide treatment options, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, to help manage symptoms.