Individuals with bipolar disorder are often the life of the party, the most charismatic person in the room who naturally command attention. The shadow of the disorder also makes their presence – when untreated – toxic, disruptive and draining.
Bipolar disorder is a condition in which a person alternates between states of mania and depression. Mania is characterized by a state of elevated mood; while in depression, one’s emotions become much more hopeless and actions listless. This condition was previously known as manic-depressive disorder.
Sovereign Health of Arizona provides bipolar disorder treatment for women in a nurturing residential environment that creates a safe space to rehabilitate from mental problems and restore the best in each woman.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
When manic symptoms are present, individuals will appear to be more extroverted and gregarious. They may also be short-tempered and irritable. A person tends to have racing thoughts and jump from one idea to the next, unable to focus. They may take on multiple projects, while not necessarily bringing all of them to completion. The person may sleep only for short periods and make impulsive decisions.
In contrast, the depressive phase is characterized by a loss of interest in activities formerly enjoyed along with feelings of sadness and lethargy. A person may have trouble focusing on matters that are especially important in their lives. They may also appear to be more easily agitated or sensitive, as well as more likely to struggle with suicidal ideation.
Effects of Bipolar Disorder
The variations in mood caused by bipolar disorder may occur throughout a year or even during the course of a single day. The severity of the mood swings depends on the type with the main two types being Bipolar I or Bipolar II
Bipolar I disorder is more severe than Bipolar II disorder, with the key difference being the extremity of manic excitement. Bipolar I is comprised largely of manic symptoms, which appear abnormal and inappropriate to the setting, or out of control.
Bipolar II includes hypomania, which is a marked increase in excitement. This type also includes needing less sleep, talking more, a sustained elevation in mood, be it happy or irritable. The behavior is more “on” than normal.
Bipolar disorder can lead to conflict in a person’s life, such as financial difficulties during a manic phase when money may be spent impulsively. The disorder can also disrupt relationships, work and school. People with the disorder have an increased likelihood of suicide.