Symptoms And Treatment Of Bipolar Disorder - 1489 Words

Understanding Depakote Samuel Ramsey San Diego City College Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive disorder, is a disease that affects thousands of people all over the United States of America. According to Sarris (2011) approximately 1-2% of adults will be affected by bipolar disorder in their lifetime. While some individuals may go undiagnosed, the prevalence percentage can raise to as much as 4% when including milder subclinical presentations (Sarris, 2011). Bipolar disorder can cause severe dysfunction in the lives of those afflicted with it. Family life, job status, and other social experiences can all be negatively impacted. This is especially true of people who do not obtain†¦show more content†¦These mood swings are usually referred to as mood states (National Institute). An exceedingly hopeless, down, or sad state is referred to as a depressive episode. A highly excited, energized, or joyful state is named known as a manic episode. It is also possible for those with bipolar disorder to experience both depressive and manic symptoms simultaneously; this situation is known as a mixed state (National Institute). Vast changes in sleep, energy level, activity, and behavior usually accompany these different mood states. There are several known symptoms of bipolar disorder. The symptoms differ between depressive and manic states. Some of the symptoms for depressive state are: Long periods of sadness or hopelessness, lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, feeling tired, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, problems making decisions, restlessness, irritability, altered sleeping patterns, changes in eating habits, suicidal thoughts and/or attempting suicide (National Institute). The symptoms of manic states include: High levels of irritability, an extended period of feeling high, outgoing, or extremely happy, an elevated sense of one’s capabilities, impulsiveness, engaging in high-risk behaviors, being distracted easily, talking very rapidly while moving from one topic to another, racing thoughts, restlessness, increased activity, suddenly starting new projects, sleeplessness, excess energy, and excitability (National