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Bipolar depression
What is Bipolar depression disorder
The distinguishing characteristic of Bipolar depression disorder,
as compared to other mood disorders, is the presence of at
least one manic episode. Additionally, it is presumed to be
a chronic condition because the vast majority of individuals
who have one manic episode have additional episodes in the
future. The statistics suggest that four episodes in ten years
is an average, without preventative treatment. Every individual
with bipolar depression disorder has a unique pattern of mood
cycles, combining depression and manic episodes, that is specific
to that individual, but predictable once the pattern is identified.
Research studies suggest a strong genetic influence in bipolar
disorder.
Bipolar depression disorder typically begins in adolescence
or early adulthood and continues throughout life. It is often
not recognized as a psychological problem, because it is episodic.
Consequently, those who have it may suffer needlessly for
years without treatment.
Effective treatment is available for bi polar depression
disorder. Without treatment, marital breakups, job loss, alcohol
and drug abuse, and suicide may result from the chronic, episodic
mood swings. The most significant treatment issue is noncompliance
with treatment. Most individuals with bipolar disorder do
not perceive their manic episodes as needing treatment, and
they resist entering treatment. In fact, most people report
feeling very good during the beginning of a manic episode,
and don't want it to stop. This is a serious judgment problem.
As the manic episode progresses, concentration becomes difficult,
thinking becomes more grandiose, and problems develop. Unfortunately,
the risk taking behavior usually results in significant painful
consequences such as loss of a job or a relationship, running
up excessive debts, or getting into legal difficulties. Many
individuals with bipolar disorder abuse drugs or alcohol during
manic episodes, and some of these develop secondary substance
abuse problems.
Facts About Bi polar depression disorder
More than 2 million Americans have manic-depressive illness.
It is extremely distressing and disruptive to their lives.
- Like any serious illness, bipolar disorder also creates
problems for spouses, family members, friends, and employers.
- Family members of people with bi polar depression disorder
often have to cope with serious behavioral problems (such
as wild spending sprees) and the lasting consequences of
these behaviors.
- Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, and there is
strong evidence that it is inherited. However, despite ongoing
research efforts, a specific genetic defect associated with
the disease has not yet been identified.
- Bipolar illness has been diagnosed in children under age
12, although it is not common in this age bracket. The symptoms
can be confused with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder,
so careful diagnosis is necessary.
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