The Probable Bipolar Disorder Cause

Bipolar Disorder is a psychiatric illness which involves constant ups and downs in a person's mood. The most feasible Bipolar Disorder cause has long been discovered by researchers but studies are still made to find out whether there are more possible Bipolar Disorder causes left undiscovered.

The Bipolar Disorder cause is said to be the inequity of neurotransmitters in an individual's brain. Scientists are still in the dark as with the reason for such disproportion of chemicals in the human brain. Although stress and other environmental factors do cause dramatic mood swings, this is not one of the Bipolar Disorder causes. Instead, Bipolar Disorder is a hereditary disease which is passed on from one generation to the other. Heredity, therefore, is also one probable bipolar disorder cause.

Through genetic tendency, an individual with close relatives who experienced Bipolar Disorder have more chances of acquiring the said disease. Although genetic tendency is the most possible Bipolar Disorder cause, not all cases had relatives who also acquired the disorder. However, belonging to a bloodline, wherein a Bipolar Disorder afflicted person also belongs, increases one's chances of also obtaining the disease.

The Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation states that a person's family history plays a vital role in deliberating whether a person is at risk of Bipolar Disorder. According to their statistics, when either one of an individual's parents suffers from Bipolar Disorder, he or she has a 15%-30% probability of acquiring the disease as well. When both parents have the threatening disease, the risk goes as high as 50%-75%. Moreover, if an individual's sibling possesses Bipolar Disorder, he or she has a 15% to 25% likelihood of having the illness too.

Despite the Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation's statement, it also crucial to emphasize that some Bipolar Disorder afflicted people have no familial record of the said disorder.

An unexpected occurrence in one's life can also become a Bipolar Disorder cause if a person at great risk in developing such disorder is exposed to it. Such unanticipated incidences can become set offs to Bipolar Disorder.

8 Concrete examples of set offs, which may also be referred to as Bipolar Disorder causes when exposed to those at risk, include:

* Recurring infirmity in one's health

* Experiencing nervous tensions or anxiety

* Changes in one's hormones

* Death of a friend, family member or any loved one

* Use of drugs with the like of cocaine and marijuana

* Intake of drugs which are used to aide depression

* Insufficient sleep

* Experiencing Iodine deficiency in the body

Knowing the Bipolar Disorder cause is just the first step into fully understanding the dreadful brain illness. Seeing through to its proper and consistent treatment and medication is another step. A proper and healthy lifestyle is also encouraged for people diagnosed with the Bipolar disorder. The support of family and friends, as well as Bipolar Disorder support groups in local areas are also crucial in the patient's health progress.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms - Phobia and Obsessions

Psychosis is never too far away from you when you are suffering from bipolar disorder. You will do well to be on the lookout for such symptoms that come about when you are in the severe depressive phase of your manic-depressive illness. Soon enough, your own delusions can take you over completely, and if nothing is done, it can lead to very dangerous grounds - the end of which might be much more disastrous.

You may experience symptoms of all kinds of false beliefs or hallucinations when you are suffering from bipolar type of disorder. Certain false sensory perceptions will seem so real to you and the real people around you tend to fade into the woodwork. Such things happen often in the disease, whether you are manic or depressive.

Phobia and obsessions are about two of the most common symptoms of the depressive state of bipolar disorder. In the manic phase of the condition, you may instead feel powerfully, yet incongruously, happy. You may not notice this though, but the person next to you should notice it enough to try and get you so see a doctor in a hurry.

Knowing these symptoms can help you or your loved ones get quick help for you, especially before it gets very critical. Like everything else in life, early action in handling it has been known to help lots of victims. It can help you too, no matter how useless you think your case might be. I know people who have had it worse in terms of bipolar disorder, but they were able to effectively control it at the end of the day.

Bipolar Disorder In Adults - Everything You Need to Know

Although there are varying definitions of what the Bipolar Disorder disease is, they all agree on the fact that the affected person is prone to having mood swings and one or two episodes of mania. Sometimes the person could be very sad and remorseful and at times he could be very excited and up in jubilations.

It has been documented that well over two million adults who are American have Bipolar. The disease is noted to begun in their teens or adolescence. The disease is very serious and it could end up disrupting a lot of social ties including marriages and families and one can even end up losing his or her job.

In adults, the symptoms associated with the Bipolar Disorder ailment may be mistaken to a fact and deprive the meaning that the person may be having a normal bout of work stress or relationship stress. The following are some of the symptoms of the Bipolar Disorder that may be confused to mean the adult is undergoing stress: the person seems annoyed or angry; he or she is unable to concentrate or focus on what he is doing; a feeling of being unworthy; getting very little sleep; the persons seems very tired all the time; he or she spends a lot of time in though; uncontrollable crying; irresponsible behavior such as driving dangerously and making irresponsible sexual advances on the opposite sex; and even death threats and suicidal attempts.

Bipolar Disorder disease is said to be hereditary or genetic because it tends to run in the family. A chemical found in the brain called serotonin and some certain hormones are believed to be what causes bipolar disorder. The ailment can be triggered by a hormonal change that is sometimes triggered by natural misgivings such as death, substance abuse or an ailment. There are cases when bipolar disorder has been reported to have just begun without any obvious or natural activity that might have triggered it.

However, Bipolar can be successfully treated. A combination of medication and therapy have been said to lead to effective and successful treatments. But there is also a setback involved, a larger fraction of the people who have been diagnosed with the bipolar disorder disease do not receive treatment.

On the other hand, there are quite a number that are known for support of people suffering from the bipolar sickness. One can get all the information he or she needs from these organization including how to know you have the disease and what kind of medication you are supposed to get and where you can access the necessary treatment.

Facts About Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder affects the brain of an individual by initiating unusual change in moods, activity levels and energy. The disorder is very dangerous as extreme cases can result to job loss, poor school performance, damaged relationships and suicide. Luckily, the condition can be reversed to produce a productive individual again. The effectiveness of the healing process will depend on the stage of the disorder. Advanced stages are harder to control than the early stages of the disorder. Therefore, to shed more lime light to the disorder and enable early treatment this article will outline a few facts about bipolar disorder.

One of the facts about bipolar disorder it that it affects approximately 2% of the U.S. population. About 0.4% to 1.2% of the children population suffers from this disorder. A higher percentage is observed in a population comprising individuals aged between 18 and 24 years. This disorder adversely affects the young generation because they develop aggressive attitudes and behaviors in retaliation. Adolescents face rapid cycles of mood swings throughout the day as opposed to adults that experience slower bouts of mood swings in a day.

On the other hand, women are at a higher risk of developing the disorder than men. However, this does not exonerate men from developing the disorder. In fact, the development of the disorder is largely associated to genetic factors. For instance, if both or one parents of an individual had mood disorder then the probability of an individual suffering from the bipolar disorder is very high. Also, there is a 70% probability that a child or close relative of the person suffering from bipolar disorder will suffer from depression or the bipolar disorder. However, it is important to note that the bipolar disorder can affect anyone despite their ethnicity, culture, religion or race.

The other facts about bipolar disorder include an increased rate of misdiagnosis. Most individuals, including doctors confuse bipolar disorder with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This can result in grave situations such as individuals experiencing maniac episodes due to prescription of the wrong type of treatment.

One of the facts about bipolar disorder is that delayed efforts of diagnosing and treating the disorder can result in self-treatment - individuals turn to alcohol and drug abuse. This acts as a solace and as a means of controlling the disease thereby subjecting themselves to adverse situations. This can be very serious problem because individuals can easily harm themselves during this time as well as drive away all family and friends who do not understand what is happening.

On the positive side, when the disorder is treated individuals have an opportunity of living a happy and successful life once again. However, dedication and effort from both the physician and patient are required for a complete and fast relief of the disorder.

For effective results the patients are at at times referred to psychiatrists to enable them become optimistic and have a more positive attitude towards life. They become to understand their condition can be treated and they can live a normal life in they stay on their medication and follow the doctor's instructions.

While treating the disease it is important to remember that there are different kinds of bipolar disorders including Bipolar I and II, Mixed Bipolar, Rapid Cycling and Cyclothymia. Each of these phases but be treated differently.

Armed with the knowledge of these facts about bipolar disorder it will hopefully make it easier to detect this serious medical problem in its early stages and deal with it appropriately.

Our website has a vast amount of information on bipolar and we are constantly adding more. Feel free to bookmark us for further reference.

My Wife Is Bipolar

When you say to yourself "my wife is bipolar" what are the first thoughts that come to mind? Possibly this is nothing new, possibly your wife was diagnosed years ago. Maybe your wife was diagnosed just last week, or even earlier today. So what are the thoughts that go through your head? Are you angry, scared, frustrated, sad, relieved, or possibly a mix of these emotions and a thousand others? Sometimes it is a lot to swallow, being the husband of a bipolar wife. Bipolar disorder is so complex and has so many levels. If you have known about your wife's illness for a while I'm sure you are very aware of what a roller coaster Bipolar disorder can be, not just for her, but for everyone involved. If you have just received the news that your wife is Bipolar this can be a very scary time as well. We will visit both Husbands looking for new coping mechanism and Husbands that are new to the diagnosis and seeking help.

We are going to learn about Bipolar disorder, and then take active participation in coping skills for yourself, to help YOU. When your wife, best friend, lover, mother... the list goes on and on is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, she no longer is the only person who needs help.

The First step is to learn about your wife's disorder. I am going to briefly explain a few different types of Bipolar disorder and there common traits. I am going to review these as a refresher for husbands who have already studied the disorder of their wife, and as a great introduction to the disorder itself for the husbands that are new to the disorder. I am not going to go into great detail about bipolar disorder there is tons and tons of information regarding bipolar disorder if you would like to research it more. I am here to show YOU coping and hoping strategies to help YOU the husband.

First and foremost I strongly hope that your wife has been diagnosed by a licensed psychiatrist, who has the skills and are qualified to diagnose and treat the disorder. If this has not yet been done I encourage you to help your wife be properly diagnosed. This is the first step in any situation of getting treatment.

Chapter One Section One: THE DIFFERENT FORMS AND SEVERITY OF BIPOLAR DISORDER

BIPOLAR DISORDER I

Approximately 1% of the general population has Bipolar 1. Bipolar 1 patients usually experience severe depression, and long full-blown manic episodes. Bipolar 1 patients are often also know as having episodes without any obvious mood problems, this can last for months on end of feeling like your wife is totally fine, fixed so to speak, and or normal. Physicians will call these long-lasting episodes of normalcy Euthymia.

BIPOLAR DISORDER II

This is the most common type of Bipolar Disorder. Recent research has shown that 4 to 5 percent of the general population has Bipolar II. People who suffer with bipolar II have a tendency to have very majorly depressive episodes. In fact a lot of bipolar patients are misdiagnosed as being depressed for many years before being properly evaluated as Bipolar II. Another diagnosis tool that differentiates from Bipolar I is that most Bipolar II patients do not ever have full-blown mania episodes. Physicians usually call Bipolar II mania episodes as Hypomania. Hypomania does not have the same intensity as full-blown mania. There is usually periods of time with increased energy, a decreased need for sleep without any fatigue, and a slight euphoric sensation. A lot of patients when in this Phase of Bipolar II can be extremely productive. Extreme caution must be taken when in hypomania state. Your wife can easily start abusing substances and have spending issues. More times than not the patient does not realize something is wrong, in fact sometimes welcoming the feeling after a long depression. Most hypomania episodes do not last longer than a week or two.

CYCLOTHYMIA

Cyclothymiacs are a mild form of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) in which a person has mood swings over a period of years that go from mild depression to euphoria and excitement. It has been recently discovered that patients with cyclothymia will usually evolve into Bipolar 1 or Bipolar II throughout their lifetime.

As you can see a lot of the Bipolar Symptoms can and are very similar sometimes more often than not overlapping and fitting the criteria of not only one but both forms of Bipolar disorder. Often that is why it is not usually heard of as Bipolar 1 or Bipolar II outside of the professional medical field. In standard terms we simply use Bipolar Disorder. Now that we have learned a very brief description and knowledge for bipolar we must start getting more specific in accessing your partners specific bipolar symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder in Children - A Call For Caution

Introduction

Most treatment professionals working with children and adolescents are acutely aware of the rise in the rate at which children and adolescents, but most significantly pre-pubescent children, are being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. While estimates vary from article to article, it is interesting to note several recently reported statistics. The New York Times, in an article released in September of 2007, noted that in the 10 year span from 1993 to 2003, there was a forty-fold increase in the rate at which this population was being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, while a more scholarly article (Youngstrom, 2005) noted that marked increases had been found in the rate of diagnosing in children of those involved with Child Protective Services in Illinois. Other writers have pointed to this sharp increase in the rate, some positively (NYT, 2007, Papalos and Papalos, 2006), even saying that there needs to be even more of an increase. Others, however, have expressed alarm at this sharp increase, and have pleaded with professionals to have a more conservative approach to diagnosing this in pre-adults. There is much debate in the field, hotly opinioned views, and contention in the field brought on by the huge gulf between the most liberal, and the most conservative, in terms of this diagnosis. To some extent, this divide is evident between Psychiatrists and Psychologists, and indeed, the previously noted NY Times article pointed out that 90% of the diagnosing of Bipolar Disorder in children was being done by psychiatrists. However, there are many other mental health professionals, including psychologists and other non-psychiatric folk in the field, who take the liberal approach shared by many psychiatrists.

What Drives us to Diagnose Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents?

For those who advocate earlier diagnosing, one of the most commonly quoted reasons is prevention: prevention of a poor childhood, prevention of academic difficulties, prevention of social failure, prevention of kindling, etc. The risk, proponents of earlier diagnosing opine, is that failure to act is a disservice to the child, and to those involved in the child's life. This has been the stated reason driving such professionals as Dr. Dimitri Papalos and his wife, Janice Papalos, and of others, and indeed, any professional with any modicum of empathy has most certainly considered this when reflecting on a case of possible Bipolar Disorder in a child or adolescent. For, if indeed, allowing a child to pass through their childhood without appropriate treatment sentences them to a substandard future, who among us would hesitate to act? The problem is that it is not entirely clear that we have gotten this right, and it is most certainly not clear that what appears to be Bipolar Disorder in children will follow the child into adulthood.

What is this animal we call Childhood Bipolar Disorder?

In adulthood, it is well-accepted that Bipolar Disorder involves discrete periods of Mania, and discrete periods of Depression. Of course, there are the murkier cases involving Mixed episodes, though it is well-accepted that such cases do indeed occur in adulthood. However, as we descend retrospectively into childhood, the waters become murkier and murkier. What does Bipolar Disorder look like in early adolescence? What about late prepubescence? And what about the very young? A review of the literature (Papalos and Papalos, 2006, Youngstrom, 2005, Danner-Ogston, et al, in press, Geller, 1997, etc.) reveals opinions that span the spectrum from the very conservative (let's keep things as they were), to the very liberal (let's diagnose in infancy). Each opinion is justified in some sort of logical argument or another, but most importantly, there is no consensus, and strong evidence supporting a call for caution.

Conservative Approach

The conservative approach to diagnosing Bipolar Disorder in children is to keep things as they are. In other words, the child/adolescent must meet the criteria for Major Depression, and for Mania, in terms of severity of symptoms, and duration of the moods. In this approach, the child would need to evidence severe depression for a week, in most cases, and would have to evince chronic mania for the better part of a week, before they could be considered for the diagnosis. In instances in which there was thought to be a Mixed Episode, these duration criteria could be waived, but the severity criteria could not.

Liberal Approach

In the more liberal approach, opinions vary, but there is a general relaxation of the duration and frequency criteria, to the point that in the most liberal approach, children can cycle from minute to minute! Also noted in the more liberal approach is the tendency to re-define what comprises depression or mania in children, with the most liberal approach defining mania as consisting primarily of chronic and severe irritation, or general anger issues. Depression, in this approach, may primarily manifest as anger, or social withdraw.

Interim Conclusion

The problem with the conservative approach, in some professionals' views, is that we are potentially missing children who should have the diagnosis and treatment. And indeed, when a child or adolescent has significant emotional or behavioral issues, and is not treated, their life does often go from bad to worse. The problem with the liberal approach is that treatment, which is led by the medical approach, involves the introduction of potentially toxic psychotropics into the child's body. Most of the psychotropics used to treat Bipolar Disorder in children and adolescents are prescribed 'off label,' without the sanctioning of the FDA, and without knowledge of the potential long-term side effects of such treatment on the developing body and brain.

Current Research

Because of the saliency of this particular area of mental health, there has been a great deal of research in the past decade or more. NIMH, NAMI, and other organizations have funded multiple studies to answer questions related to this debate. Books have been written on this, including the infamous The Bipolar Child (Papalos and Papalos, 2006, and earlier editions), The Everything Parents Guide to Children With Bipolar Disorder, and others. So what is the state of the science? What do we know?

According to Papalos and Papalos, in an informal research study which involved polling parents who had identified their child as Bipolar, there was a great deal of diversity in what might be seen in a child or adolescent with Bipolar Disorder. Papalos identified traits of moodiness, nightmares, sleep problems, sensory integration difficulties, extreme temper tantrums, depression, food sensitivities, anxiety, hyperactivity, impulsivity, distractibility, oppositional traits, and other traits. Indeed, they were of the mind that because Bipolar Disorder spanned such an array of symptoms (many of which were found in other childhood mental disorders, such as Autism, Asperger's, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD, etc), one should diagnose this disorder first, and then consider additional diagnoses if the symptoms were not fully explained by the first diagnosis. While Papalos and Papalos's conclusions were by far the most extreme, there are many researchers who feel that a much more liberal interpretation of what Bipolar Disorder is in children, is needed, though they do not go to the extremes that Papalos and Papalos do. The consensus seems to be that children with Bipolar Disorder will not have the same measures of frequency and duration noted in adulthood. Most liberal diagnosticians maintain that children and young adolescents could 'cycle daily, and that they may not demonstrate traditional mania, and that their depression may not necessarily be debilitating. Most liberal diagnosticians also maintain that irritability is part of what may be mania, and that Bipolar Children seem to have severe anger problems. Questions that have not be definitively answered center around differential diagnoses (is it Bipolar Disorder, or PTSD, or both? etc).

What if the 'liberals' are right?

If the liberal approach holds up to the scrutiny of time and research, then there are many children who have been provided with attention and treatment, rightly so, which may prevent future problems. Such a proactive approach may well improve public opinion of the mental health field, as well, and may increase funding directed towards mental health problems, or insurance recognition of mental health problems.

What if the 'conservatives' are right?

If the conservatives are right, then we potentially have a public disaster on our hands. Treatment of children and young adolescents with Bipolar medications is unproven, sometimes-to-often ineffective, and marred by the many side effects and potential long term damage that could occur. Bipolar medications can cause agitation, increased behavioral difficulty, moodiness, weight gain, shaking, tiredness, and potentially more serious problems, such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a sometimes deadly skin disease, tremors, seizures, and death. As well, it may be that teaching a child that they have less control over their emotions and behaviors than a typical child, or that they have no control, could cause them to give up and to actually worsen in their behaviors. Also, there are some that opine that parlaying medications on children at a young age imbues in them a strong belief that substances are the answer for their ills ... and how far down the road from that is the belief that illicit substances may be the answer?

How well are we doing?

Given all the concerns, how are we doing? What do we know about the effectiveness of the more liberal diagnostic and treatment approach? Reviewing the literature, the results are not encouraging. For instance, Dr. March, of Duke University, points out that we have no idea whether children diagnosed at the age of 5 to 7 will actually be Bipolar when they are older. In the NYT article, it is noted that most of the research suggests that these kids are most likely to have depression as they get older, rather than Bipolar Disorder. Generally, it appears that medications often do not address the bulk of the symptoms, and it does appear that their strongest effect is in the sedation category, which is a double-edged sword. Specifically, the child or young adolescent is more manageable, and less volatile, but they also are sometimes less able to focus on academics, and may experience major personality shifts with undesirable effects on their social success. Mood stabilization is often an elusive goal, even with heavy psychopharmacological intervention, and in some instances the mood becomes more unstable during pharmacological treatment. The side effects also often become an issue in and of themselves, necessitating additional medications, diet changes, changes in academic approaches, and even requiring adjustments in the general expectations of the child's ability to function in their world. In some instances, the medications make the child potentially eligible for disability benefits, because of the debilitating effects they have on their functioning. As well, in many instances the pharmacological interventions are being guided by overworked and overwhelmed child and adolescent psychiatrists, who cannot spend the time needed to fully evaluate the child and their needs, and who often are pressured by pharmacological companies, directly and indirectly, to prescribe a particular medication, or to identify a certain portion of their caseload as Bipolar. Overall, even if one accepts the thinking that Bipolar Disorder in children and adolescents is under diagnosed, and that they should be treated with medications, the end result is often partial to full failure in addressing the issue.

Are we missing something?

Researcher completed by Martin Teicher, M.D., Ph.D., (2000) suggests that early trauma, be it sexual, physical, or verbal, has a potentially long-term effect on the developing brain. Indeed, his research indicates that such trauma, and particularly (interestingly) verbal abuse, effects long-term changes in the corpus callosum, and in the precuses, as well as in the hypothalamus, as well as in other areas. The corpus callosum is important in balancing out the right and left brain, and those with underdeveloped corpus collosi tend to be very reactive or unbalanced in their approach to problem solving (interpret: overly emotional and emotionally reactive ... in other words, more likely to be angry, violent, or irrational). Those with underdeveloped precueses tend to be less logical, less integrated in their personality, and generally inappropriate in their reactions. Thus, in his view, many of the behavioral and mood issues that we see in the prepubescent or post-pubescent child may be a result of those early childhood experiences. In other words, he is proving something clinicians on the front line have thought all along: subjecting a child to abuse tends to cause them to experience major personality shifts, and they are often violent and emotional. If Dr. Teicher prevails at the end of the day, it may well be that what we thought was Childhood Bipolar Disorder was actually a trauma disorder. And the implications of that: The difference between labeling the child as potentially temporarily impaired, or permanently impaired.

Conclusion:

There is much debate about the frequency by which Childhood Bipolar Disorder occurs in children and adolescents. There is no questioning the conclusion that this is an important area to explore, as the implications for this disorder over the lifetime of a person are serious. However, we need to get it right, because if not, we will either have undiagnosed cases that permanently alter the child's/adolescent's chances for success, or we will have over medicated children struggling to progress under the weight of the side effects of unnecessary medication. Ultimately, it is science that should clear the air ... good, logical, replicable science that will show us what Bipolar Disorder probably looks like, if it indeed exists, in Children. Until we have a scientific consensus, however, caution seems advisable, and the more conservative approach would be to consider other, less long-term conceptualizations for the child's symptom set.

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Copyright June 2008. These articles cannot be used in any fashion without the explicit permission of the author, except for individual use.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition, and is for the sole purpose of providing alternate perspectives. If you feel that a mental health condition exists in yourself or the person you are reading this article for, you are advised to seek out psychological or psychiatric services.

Bipolar - Is This A Real Disease?

Bipolar disorder is a term the experts use to describe someone who gives into the way they feel and who don't control their reactions. The fact is that the sufferer can find it hard to do so. The reality is that they can control their reactions as they still have free will; it's just very hard to do. So what are some of the things that these people can do to help themselves have some self-control? You see, the answer is not in pills that artificially attempt to manipulate the brain's processes in order to trick it into behaving. No, this is a habit this bipolar "disease."

I know that if you suffer with bipolar, you may feel that it's not that easy and that there must be a disease because of how it feels. You need to remember thought that you cannot trust your feelings. You need to understand that I had OCD and beat it and all the "experts" who never had it, said that I could never beat it. I did not have a mild case either, it was rugged and torturous. I was also told that I would never be able to cure my migraines, yet I did some research and guess what, I beat them. So much for the "experts." I no longer just blindly listen to what "experts" tell me anymore.

I invite you to do the same too. I don't even want you to listen to what I am telling you now blindly. I want you to find out for yourself that bipolar is actually a habit of the mind and that you may have an extreme low and feel like lashing out. You can however, go for a walk and blow off some steam, then you can go back to your house and treat your family with respect even though you don't feel like it. Try it, I promise you, it will be hard, but it is possible. If it's possible that should show you that it can be repeated and if it can be repeated it can become a new habit. Think about that and you will see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel concerning Bipolar disorder.

I really even hesitate to call bipolar a disorder simply because it really isn't one. It was strategically named by the "experts" so that they can create pills for it legally and so that therapists could legally bill insurance to treat this new "disorder" or "disease." I want you to understand that you don't need to listen to me about the politics about it; most people who read this will have already adapted the ideas of others and don't like forming their own conclusions.

What I am glad to see is that if you are still reading this, you are the type of person that thinks for yourself and I am proud of you for that. Again, don't take my word for it. Here's my "out of the box" challenge that if you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. I challenge you to eat only organic food for the next three months and then come back to me and tell me whether you still have bipolar or not. This means that you'd also need to be off medications and you'll need to talk to your doctor about that. I've prepared some powerful mental health materials for you below, enjoy!

Bipolar Disorder - An Abnormal Mood Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterised by abnormal mood states. More accurately it involves cycling between the high mood state of mania to the incredibly low state of depression. Bipolar disorder affects at least one in every 70 people, greatly impeding the sufferer's ability to live a normal life, and putting them at a higher risk of personal, relationship and work related issues.

In order to understand this disorder correctly, a discussion about how we actually define mood or abnormality of mood is in order. Our moods include the obvious states of happiness and sadness, but also optimism, pessimism, contentedness or dissatisfaction and they can even cover physical states such as how fatigued one can feel. You could say that mood is like an emotional barometer a set of feelings that expresses our sense of emotional comfort or discomfort.

Generally speaking everyone's moods vary within a certain range from day to day, people are not constantly in one state or the other and it is quite normal for people to have ups and downs of mood. So what is the difference between these regular ups and downs in mood and the moods of a bipolar disorder sufferer? Do they simply have higher ups and lower downs?

Well yes, in a certain way this is correct. A bipolar sufferers' moods quite often are so outside the range of normal that it doesn't take a psychologist to know something is wrong. They can swing from mood to mood like a monkey swings from a tree at a rate that is almost impossible to keep up with and that doesn't make any rational sense. Therefore, the symptoms of bipolar disorder seem to be caused more by a defect in the brains regulation of mood.

So for what is essentially a biological condition, the effects are felt both physically and psychologically. Bipolar disorder is accompanied by a range of symptoms that affect not only mood but energy levels, memory, cognitive ability and ones ability to relate and connect to the people around them. Physically one suffers sleep impairments, energy surges or lack thereof, appetite changes and concentration difficulties. Psychologically one might experience changes in thoughts, feelings, choices and actions. As the symptoms are cyclic in nature a sufferer can be left feeling as if they are always losing ground and never quite able to get a handle on their life.

As such the prognosis for bipolar disorder can seem quite dim, however it does not have to be that way. With greater understanding of this disorder and improved medical options over the past 30 years, fortunately today there is much hope for the bipolar sufferer. Through better understanding and management techniques combined with medications such as lithium a bipolar suffer can control the cycling moods and triggers for mania and depression so that one can live an enjoyable life.

Of the treatments necessary for sufferers of bipolar disorder, non is more important than self management strategies. By developing the ability to recognise the triggers and adjusting your life accordingly, a bipolar suffer can lessen the onset and severity of manic and depressive episodes.

The most beneficial self management strategies include:

1. Sleep wake monitoring

2. Staying on a regular daily and nightly routine

3. Keeping a mood chart

A mood chart is really helpful in creating a structure for recognising daily changes in moods and emotions and how these changes are related to sleeping patterns, medications and stressful life events.

4. Developing a list of early warning signs is also beneficial to signaling an oncoming episode

The key to recovery is to achieve stability of mood. And what do we mean by stability of mood? Stability doesn't mean you don't have highs and lows. As we discussed earlier, having high and lows are quite normal. What it does means is that your mood needs to make sense to you and be in synch with what is happening in your life. You should be able to live your life with confidence that you can tolerate stress, and when your mood is affected by something either you get upset or excited, you can regain your balance reasonably quickly.

The 2 Phases of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is a condition that is characterized by feeling extreme emotions. This mood disorder commonly has two phases, mania and depression. Each of these phases is at the extreme ends of the emotional spectrum. Currently, 5 million Americans suffer from this type of disorder. When left untreated, it can greatly affect the life of a person suffering from it. With information and treatment, this is a disorder that can be understood and treated, leading to a return to a normal life.

One of the primary defining characteristics is the state of mania. Mania is a period of time during which a person experiences a distinctly elevated mood, in many cases experienced as euphoria. There are many different forms that this can take. In the state of mania a person often has racing thoughts, lack of need for sleep and greatly increased energy. While some of the symptoms may seem desirable, especially to the productive person, they are characterized by the inability to control them, and can have negative side effects. Irrational behavior and impaired judgment during the manic phase can lead a person to make bad choices with regard to relationships, health, personal safety, sexual activity and the manic state may also lead to substance abuse. Irritability and lack of patience are often cited by those experiencing the heightened state of mania. Not all of the symptoms will be experienced by every individual, but a manic episode is recognized by medical health professionals if it lasts more than one week.

On the other end of the spectrum from the manic episode is the depressive episode. The depressive episodes share many traits in common with clinical depression, and the symptoms may include: continuing feelings of extreme anxiety, hopelessness or isolation; the loss of appetite; changes to sleeping patterns; loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities; social anxiety; chronic, sometimes unexplained, pain. In extreme cases a person may experience suicidal ideation and have prolonged extremely morbid thoughts during a depressive phase.

The two common phases, manic episodes and depressive episodes, have profound impacts on the lives of those suffering with it every single day. The rapid changes in mood cause fear and anxiety. Both phases have unique ways of interfering with a person's ordinary life and relationships. Because of the difficulty of diagnosing the disorder, it is often family members or close friends who recognize the symptoms in their loved ones. If correctly diagnosed, there are many treatment options.

This is a serious condition from which many people suffer. Their lives are interrupted by the extreme swings in mood and the social and physical side effects of these phases. With a thorough understanding, anyone suffering from it can seek help, and the treatment options have met with success in many cases. Bipolar Disorder can be regulated and managed, allowing a person to resume life on more normal terms.

Types of Bipolar - Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder

When diagnosing bipolar disorder there are two main types of bipolar that medical professionals refer to.

They are known as bipolar I and bipolar II but you may also see them referred to as:

-bipolar 1, bipolar i, bipolar type 1, or bipolar i disorder

-bipolar 2, bipolar ii, bipolar type 2, or bipolar ii disorder.

If you are interested in what bipolar disorder is, some common symptoms, and what the differences are between the two main types of bipolar they can be differentiated as follows:

Bipolar Type 1 (I)

Bipolar I, indicates that a person experiences mania, the more marked form of mood elevation.

Mania in bipolar I disorder is a period of elevated mood or a "high" mood swing that lasts for at least a week. During an episode of mania, a person becomes very self confident, needs less sleep, and pursues goals and projects or may become totally preoccupied with activities that they find pleasurable.

Energy and drive is increased. This can be expressed by spending sprees, overt self-confidence, sexual indiscretion and increased activity in pleasurable activities. The high mood of mania is also accompanied by racing thoughts and speech.

Manic episodes can also involve irritability or periods of psychosis (a loss of touch with reality). The mood swings of mania can be so severe that hospitalization is required.

For Type I bipolar disorder an episode of elevated mood (mania) impacts significantly on life, such that continuing work and maintaining relationships when unwell can become very difficult.

Bipolar Type 2 (II)

Bipolar II also involves episodes of elevated moods, but this mood elevation is of a lesser severity and for a shorter period (around 4 days), than in bipolar I. While these periods are clearly different from what is normal for the person, impairment in behaviour does not occur, in contrast to mania.

Bipolar II characteristically involves periods of depression where the person can lack energy and motivation, feel sadness and perhaps guilt over things that they are not responsible for. There can also be changes to sleep patterns and appetite.

So for those with Bipolar I, depression may or may not be a part of the symptoms experienced but to be diagnosed with Bipolar II a person must also experience episodes of depression.

If you are asking yourself, "Am I bipolar?", or if you feel that you are experiencing bipolar behaviours then please seek the advice of a doctor.

For more articles on Bipolar Disorder and for an Online Bipolar Self-Help Program visit MoodSwings.

Bipolar Disorder And Schizophrenia - Various Differences Explained

Medical professionals, for years, were under the assumption that schizophrenia and bipolar were two diseases with very comparable symptoms. German psychiatrist Eric Kraepelin said that the illnesses were very different mental disorders. Separation of the two diseases still exists even today thanks to Kraepelin.

People need to understand that these two diseases are very hard to distinguish from one another because they do have the same symptoms and signs which makes it difficult for psychiatrists not to make mistakes in diagnosis.

However, brain specialists and some psychiatrists have narrowed down the signs of both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and are able to form a base for their diagnosis.

Bipolar vs Schizophrenia -

Bipolar people can have schizophrenia-like hallucinations or delusions. The difference between the two though is that bipolar in its form is constant or rather chronic. In schizophrenia, there are signs of depressive and manic episodes like the ones in found in bipolar disorder.

Due to their similarities, it would be difficult for a family member or non-medical professional make the distinction between the two. There have been cases where some psychiatrists have made mistakes as well. There are also cases where severe schizophrenia have resembled severe cases of the highs and lows of bipolar disorder.

Researchers have found that genetics play a major factor for both diseases. This fact means medical professionals can find a considerable difference between the two by studying patient's genetics.

Bipolar vs Schizophrenia - Treatments for Mental Illnesses

Available today are treatments for both illnesses that can successfully help in managing bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Psychotherapy along with medications that can change the chemistry of the brain go a long way in managing the illnesses.

The medicines along with talk therapy sessions help to stabilize the functions in the brain thus lessening the signs and symptoms effects.

Note: Remember that since bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are very close together in the way they present themselves, it is not hard for even a medical professional to mistake them. Medicines given for one when the patient has the other disease will not work. This is when the patient would need to speak with the physician about the issue. If he or she is unable to speak about it, a trusting relative should.

One of the more popular drugs given to schizophrenia patients is Clorazil. It designed especially for schizophrenia and should never be given to bipolar patients. It is intended for them to get their brain functions under control.

Those who suffer from bipolar disorder are often prescribed Lithium which is a very effective drug that keeps manic episodes from recurrence. For those who have fast cycling bipolar illness, specialist like to give Valproic acid. This can be good for regular cycling bipolar too.

It is important that a person suffering from either these two diseases or a trusted friend or relative choose a doctor that can be entrusted to care for the patient or loved one. They must be well-recognized in the field of mental illnesses. By choosing the right doctor, the patient will get the right form of treatment necessary for their recovery and medications to help it along.

Schizophrenia and bipolar should be diagnosed as early as possible for the treatment to be more valuable.

Since these two mental diseases can cripple your life and make you an "unproductive" member of society, it is best to get treated as soon as you or someone else suspects something. If not, it will worsen over time and greatly affect how you live, work, and relate to friends, family and the outside world.

Bipolar Thyroid Disease

There's a direct connection between thyroid disorder and bipolar symptoms - a bipolar thyroid disease if you will - but it has never been clearly determined what that connection is nor why the thyroid hormones can cause bipolar actions. Since hyperthyroidism mimics bipolar behavior, the symptoms for bipolar disorder and thyroid disease are similar.

Occasionally, medications for other health-related issues will interfere with thyroid function. Drugs like the beta blockers are a good example of this and they can cause a devastating domino effect on your overall health. While taking these medications, the thyroid action is misaligned and malfunctions by not producing the correct amount of hormone which can then cause symptoms of nervousness, fatigue, and irrational behavior. This behavior is often thought to be symptomatic of bipolar disorder and sometimes that is the case, however sometimes it's merely an underactive or overactive thyroid responding to the medications and thus result in a bipolar thyroid disorder. When correct testing of the thyroid is ignored and the patient is diagnosed as bipolar, the medications prescribed for bipolar often fail to work.

By treating the thyroid with natural herbal remedies and a diet related to the extreme of the malfunction, the bipolar actions often tend to disappear. The foremost natural treatment for the thyroid is the use of kelp or seaweed either as food form or supplements. The iodine content of this herbal substance will balance the hormone secretions. Seafood is also very beneficial to add to the diet because of the high iodine content. Once the thyroid is controlled, and this may be a lifelong dedication to diet, the bipolar activity may be reduced or even eliminated.

Bipolar Disorder - What You Need to Do to Maintain a Relationship and Keep Reinventing Thoughts

Nobody wants to accept the fact that there is something wrong with them. But if others see it and you also notice it, then something has to be done. After all, accepting that there is a problem is just the first step in reinventing your thoughts about bipolar disorder and how you will be able to save your relationships with others.

Bipolar disorder is a mental condition. You may experience manic or depressive episodes and those who don't understand what you are going through will keep their distance. If you want to maintain your current relationship or still make new friends, you should be able to tell them that you have this illness and that you are getting help to make things better.

Since action speaks louder than words, you should get yourself checked by a doctor and follow whatever advice is given. Yes, drugs will be given and there will be side effects but this should go away within a few weeks and is a small price to pay in order to feel better.

In order to explain this to people, you have to be educated. Look up what bipolar disorder is on the web and other resources then explain this to them so they will be able to understand what you are going through. You will also need to have realistic expectations and coping options.

Although you are the one suffering from this illness, the one thing you must do is get the family involved in this situation. This will enable your siblings and parents to be prepared for what lies ahead. In fact, their support is very important so someone will be able to facilitate discussions during sessions.

Bipolar Disorder - Myths and Facts

There was a time when there was little information about bipolar disorder to be found. Now it seems, at times, like there is too much information, and that this information can sometimes be distorted, so you can't tell the difference between myth and truth.

For example, some people believe that you can never get better from bipolar disorder; however, although there is still no cure from the disorder, the fact is that you can get better. Living with the disorder is difficult, no doubt, but with proper management, many people go on to live happy, productive, successful lives.

Another myth is that you can handle bipolar disorder with medication alone, and this is simply not true. Although medication does help to balance the chemicals in the brain, other things are necessary to obtain full treatment of the disorder. These may include any or all of the following:

• Therapy
• Strong Support System
• Support Group
• Self-Management
• Good Sleep Patterns
• Exercise
• Healthy Diet
• Stress Reduction
• Relaxation Exercises
• Productivity (job, volunteer work)

Some people still believe that people with bipolar disorder go back and forth between episodes all the time; however, this is just a myth. Most people go long stretches of time without symptoms between episodes. Other people believe that people with the disorder swing from mania to depression and back again, and this is also not true. There are different types of the disorder, and some people never even experience a manic episode.

One big myth is that the disorder only affects mood, but this is definitely just a myth. Bipolar disorder can also affect your judgment, energy, concentration, sleep, eating habits, sex drive, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, health, and other things.

Mood Stabilizing Bipolar Medications

In the treatment of bipolar disorder, mood stabilizing medications are the most commonly prescribed for the symptoms with Lithium being the first medication used in this way which still remains widely in use today.

These mood stabilizers -of which many are now referred to as anticonvulsants- are primarily used to treat the mania and hypomania symptoms of this disorder but some of these can also have the capabilities to act as an antidepressant. In this medical guide on bipolar disorder, we will take a look at some of the most common mood stabilizing medications in use today for the treatment of this mental illness.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants were first utilized as treatment in patients who had epilepsy and physicians discovered that this medication also had a positive effect in stabilizing the moods of these patients. Anticonvulsants are now commonly used alone or in combination with other medications to treat the symptoms of mania and hypomania associated with bipolar disorder.

These medications work to control the symptoms of hyperactivity which occur in the brain and are commonly prescribed to patients who experience the "rapid cycling" episodes of bipolar disorder. The most common anticonvulsants prescribed are Depakote, Tegretol, Lamictal, and Trileptal.

Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are typically used in the treatment of serious symptoms of bipolar disorder that can result in psychosis as it is estimated that two thirds of individuals with bipolar disorder develop a form of psychosis in severe episodes of mania. They are also prescribed for some individuals who are having an episode of mania until the effects of other mood stabilizers can kick in.

In some cases, these antipsychotics are used as an ongoing form of treatment for mood stability. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic drug which has been proven to be effective for the symptoms of mania particularly in those individuals who experience the "mixed episodes" of bipolar disorder symptoms and has also been proven to be just as effective as Lithium. Other known antipsychotic drugs to be effective in bipolar disorder are Clozapine, Quetiapine, and Ziprasidone.

Treatment of Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder)

There is psychotherapy available to treat Manic depression (Bipolar Disorder). They are usually aimed at treating core symptoms, reducing negative expressed emotions in relationships and recognizing prodromal symptoms before full blown recurrence. The types of treatment with the largest efficacy range is cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy and psychoeducation. For most individuals with bipolar disorder a good prognosis comes from good treatment, which comes from an accurate diagnosis. Bipolar disorder can be a severely disabling medical condition, but many people can live full lives. A naturalistic study from first admission for mania or mixed episode (representing the hospitalized and therefore most severe cases) found that 50% achieved syndromal recovery (no longer meeting criteria for the diagnosis) within six weeks and 98% within two years. 72% achieved symptomatic recovery (no symptoms at all) and 43% achieved functional recovery (regaining of prior occupational and residential status). However, 40% went on to experience a new episode of mania or depression within 2 years of syndromal recovery, and 19% switched phases without recovery. The following behaviors can lead to depressive or manic recurrence:

o Discontinuing or lowering one's dose of medication.

o Being under- or over-medicated. Generally, taking a lower dosage of a mood stabilizer can lead to relapse into mania. Taking a lower dosage of an antidepressant may cause the patient to relapse into depression, while higher doses can cause destabilization into mixed-states or mania.

o An inconsistent sleep schedule can destabilize the illness. Too much sleep (possibly caused by medication) can lead to depression, while too little sleep can lead to mixed states or mania.

o Caffeine can cause destabilization of mood toward irritability, dysphoria, and mania. Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that lower dosages of caffeine can have effects ranging from anti-depressant to mania-inducing.

o Inadequate stress management and poor lifestyle choices. If unmedicated, excessive stress can cause the individual to relapse. Medication raises the stress threshold somewhat, but too much stress still causes relapse.

o Often bipolar individuals are subject to self-medication, the most common drugs being alcohol, diazepam/sleeping tablets and marijuana. Studies show that tobacco smoking induces a calming effect on most bipolar people, and a very high percentage suffering from the prolonged use

2 Common Bipolar Disorder Treatments - Talk Therapy And Medication

When someone is diagnosed with Bipolar, there are two types of treatments available. These treatments are called: pharmacological and psychotherapeutic. They usually will work so long as the person is following doctor's orders.

Pharmacological Therapy -

This type of therapy refers to medicinal use. They are used to control outbursts and mood swings that are caused by mania and depression. Some medicines can also help in controlling severe anxiety attacks. Treatment in this area are divided into five separate categories.

1. - Anti-anxiety medicine and sedatives

Sedatives are several different types. They usually provide relief to the individual with bipolar. It's used to give the patient the right amount of sleep he needs to get a night's rest. It can also be used to relieve trepidation and it helps in controlling manic episodes.

Hypnotics, tranquilizers, anxiolytics and benzoduazepines are several well known medications given to patients.

2. - Antidepressants

These are widely prescribed to people who have bipolar disorder. There are several different types of antidepressants including:

A. Atypical antidepressants is one example that is not chemically related to other antidepressant medication. Medicines fitting in this category are: Wellbutrin, Desyrel and Rameron.

B. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors or rather known as MAOIs help to disease the symptoms. These category includes: Manerix, Marplan, Nardil and Parnate.

C. Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRis include Celexa, Paxil, Lexapro, Prozac, Luvox and Zoloft. These help concentrate on a neurotransmitter in the brain.

D. Selective Serotonin - Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors help patient's who suffer from many of the symptoms that come with bipolar disorder. These do include: Cymbalta and Effexor.

E. Tricyclics antidepressants include: Anafranil, Elavil, Asendin, Norpramin, Aventyl and Adapin.

3.- Antipsychotics

This treatment is commonly referred to as neuroleptic drugs. These can be deemed as major tranquilizers because its mainly used to put patients under sedation. There are three antipsychotic drugs that include atypical, typical and dopamine partial agonists. Drugs that fall into this category are: Symbyax and Tetrabenazine.

4. Mood Stabilizer - These are given to "minister" a person's mood. THe FDA approved Lithium carbonate and it is the only in the mood stabilizer class. While there are more mood stabilizers in the market, none have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. There are possibly consequences for using drugs not approved yet by the FDA so it is imperative that people talk with their doctor about their treatment options.

5. Calcium Channel Blockers - These are used in patients to help drop their blood pressure so long as their disease is manageable. It is able to lower heart rate by slowing down the diffusions of electric activity. Three such drugs fall into this category - Dihydropyridine, Phenylalkylamine and Benzonthiazepine.

Psychiatrists should prescribe medications and review treatment of a patient.

The second type of therapy for bipolar disorder is psychotherapy or rather "talk therapy". This therapy allows the patient to open up and talk about causes that could cause depression. This is also the time to talk about factors to which trigger occurrences of bipolar. If patient is aware of what causes depression events, then they can take steps to avoid certain situations or come up with reasonable solutions to evade the problem.

In psychotherapy... there are two kinds: Interpersonal therapy in which the goal is to help change behavior to have a positive effect with other people and cognitive-behavioral therapy which aims to appraise beliefs and feelings that can alter responses to different scenarios.

The most important thing to remember is patience. Bipolar is treatable though patients often undergo long-term medicinal therapy.

Bipolar Disorder and the Police

If you have a loved one with bipolar disorder, then you need to be concerned about the police. Should your loved one go into a manic episode and become violent, you may have to call the police, and if they don't know that your loved one has a mental illness, things could get out of hand quickly.

Sometimes people with bipolar disorder are shot and even killed by the police. There are headlines that even prove it.

Following are actual headlines taken right out of the newspapers:

• 46-year-old Bipolar Man Shot and Killed by Officers
• Man Killed by Cops was Bipolar
• Inquest into Police Shooting Death of Bipolar Man

There was also a headline about a 23-year-old man who was shot and killed by the police. In this case, I know the whole story, because this young man is related to someone who works for me.

The young man's name was Jake. He had a small knife, was surrounded by a squad of policemen, and they just shot first, without attempting to subdue him.

Unfortunately, what the headlines didn't say was that Jake had bipolar disorder and was in a manic episode at the time because he hadn't been taking his medication.

Being familiar with bipolar disorder because of having a loved one with the disorder, you do understand that while in a manic episode, your loved one is not in their right mind. They aren't thinking rationally. Who knows if Jake even understood what was happening to him?

Even if your loved one has never been violent before, there may come a time during a manic episode when they do, and they become a threat to you or themselves. You may become so afraid that you have to involve the police.

In my opinion, there still hasn't been enough education in the community and in police departments to necessarily keep them from killing a person in a bipolar episode rather than just subduing them first and getting them the help they need.

Probably the most important thing you need to know is this: Should you have to call the police due to your loved one's behavior, STAY (if at all possible) until the police arrive, so that you can explain to them that your loved one has bipolar disorder. In many states, it will make the difference between your loved one going to the hospital or going to jail.

If there is some reason you cannot stay, then at least make sure that when you do call the police, you tell them that they will be dealing with someone who has bipolar disorder. Again, it may mean the difference between your loved one going to the hospital or going to jail. Many times, the police will bring with them a mental health professional who will help them assess the situation and /or your loved one's condition.

Unfortunately, Jake did not have this luxury. Had there been a mental health professional on the scene, he may have stood a better chance of living.

As a supporter, I'm sure you would rather see your loved one get the help they need rather than go to jail or be shot just for being in a bipolar episode.

Bipolar Chat - Talk Online With Others About Bipolar Disorder

Suffering from bipolar disorder can definitely turn your life completely upside down. It can be scary and frustrating as well. Sometimes you may feel as if you are the only one feeling like that. Take a visit to a bipolar chat room and you will quickly learn there are millions of people just like you. This is also a great way to get answers to questions you have from those who have experienced it.

Many people find it comforting to discover their situation isn't an isolated incident. You can also serve a method of support for others. You likely have the answers to some of their questions. Bipolar chat rooms can be a tremendous wealth of information and support for those who suffer from bipolar as well as their family and friends who want to find out more about the disorder.

People from all over the world visit bipolar chat rooms so you will get to meet a diverse population. Since it is all online they are available 24/7 so you can log on when you feel like it. Many people find it much easier to speak freely about their bipolar disorder online than with a face to face support group. While you are free to speak your mind remember that bipolar chat rooms like most others are moderated to prevent things from escalating online.

You want to protect your personal identity as well. It is recommended that you use a screen name instead of your real one for privacy. Always be cautious about sharing too much personal information about yourself with other people online. While most people you will meet are very decent you hear stories all the time about people becoming victims online. Don't let this happen to you!

For your safety most online bipolar chat rooms require you to verify you are at least 18 years of age or older. There are a few set up for younger children and teens but they aren't the majority.

Almost all of the bipolar chat rooms will have rules you need to read and agree to before you are able to login. For example all caps generally are not allowed because it indicates an angry tone and shouting. It is also very hard for the eyes to read accurately. Bipolar chat rooms aren't a place to pick a fight.

Generally the bipolar chat rooms have different categories and you will post your replies in the appropriate one. There may be a general area where you can freely explore different aspects. It is a good idea to avoid issues that generally result in debate including politics.

One bit of information you definitely don't want to take from a bipolar chat room though is anything pertaining to medications. That is a discussion you need to have with your doctor instead.

Bipolar Disorder Medications - Why You Should Not Use Antidepressants

Bipolar disorder is a mental disease that moves you up and down between enthusiasm and obsession and even desperate gloominess. And as though these two aren't horrible enough on their own, bipolar disorder may choose from time to time to mix them both up in your mind. Why else do you think so many people decide to call it quits with live, midway between?

Your mixed disorder episodes aren't like a relief or a balance for the symptoms of the disease. Actually, they are periods of rapid cycling of the two far poles that characterize it, but a third party layman may not know that. What they see is just you freaking out, and before long they freak out themselves.

You cannot - or should not - try to treat this disorder using the standard antidepressant. That could just send you into the manic phase of the condition in a very short time. The same works in the other direction. The standard mania medications may just put you in a horrid depression. That's why there must be a medication that balances both properties.

There are all kinds of medications that treat acute manic-depressive illness, but they are not drugs that you can get on your own. As a matter of fact, most medical professionals in the field dislike prescribing and having you go buy them, and instead would rather administer them to you by themselves. That is much safer for them because they are trying to avoid situations where you make mistakes and make the condition worse than it already is.

Is L-Tyrosine For Bipolar Disorder A Remedy For This Health Condition?

When there are chemical and hormone imbalances in the body, this causes interruptions in nervous system functions, which can be treated with the medicinal use of L-Tyrosine for bipolar disorder. This natural remedy effects substance levels in the body through regulating metabolism and protein synthesis in the body. This ingredient is an antioxidant which boosts cellular health and immunity. This substance has been known to reform and build cells so that imbalances are not present.

How using L-Tyrosine for bipolar symptoms works

This amino acid plays a vital role in the nervous system which is an organ system that is affected in people who suffer from anxiety and depression issues. The use of this natural alternative health supplement provides nutrients and energy needed to carry out biological processes while sending and receiving electrical signals without interruption. L-Tyrosine for bipolar disorder works to build the immunity of nerves while balancing chemicals and hormones in the body that assist normal balanced functions. Those who suffer from the symptoms of this condition will be relieved from even chronic signs such as fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, mood disorders, and mental and cognitive impairment.

Healthy advantages of using L-Tyrosine for bipolar disorder

Organ system functions are complemented when you begin the use of this alternative health supplement which provides ingredients necessary for proper organ functions throughout the body. This anti-oxidizing substance is known as a nerve tonic because of how it protects nerves and heals cellular damage due to hormone or chemical imbalances. L-Tyrosine for bipolar symptoms works through correcting unnatural conditions and helping your body return to its normal state while also providing the strength and immunity to function optimally.

Clinical analysis of L-Tyrosine for bipolar disorder

Extensive clinical tests have been performed on the efficacy of this ingredient which is required by all cells for regeneration. This key ingredient combines with other vitamins and minerals to synthesize and cause many positive effects for all organs. Your endocrine and immune systems will be optimized which protects from broken electrical messages being sent to and from the control center of the body in the brain without causing adverse physiological reactions in the body.

Our tips on getting the most from L-Tyrosine for bipolar disorder

L-Tyrosine for bipolar conditions is a safe solution because of how it effectively assists the body when under stressful conditions, inhibiting the excretion of sensory chemicals and hormones which cause the progression of depression and anxiety in an individual. The healing effects of this medicinal substance are amplified when they are combined with other natural vitamins, minerals, and key ingredients that boost cellular stamina to help regulate internal body conditions. This key ingredient works to reverse the effects of aging and damage in the body, which is often brought on through intrinsic and extrinsic stress. When you consider the many health benefits of this ingredient, you may be free of your symptoms and feel rejuvenated on all levels.

Bipolar II Disorder - Four Signs You May Be Bipolar

Are you or someone you love suffering from bipolar disorder? Maybe you aren't sure of the signs and symptoms of manic depression, and don't know how to identify this illness. Millions of Americans currently suffer from bipolar disorder, and this number is growing every year as the stigma of mental illness begins to crumble. Here are three simple signs of this illness.

Depression

While everyone feels a little down sometimes, those with bipolar disorder have persistent feelings of sadness or guilt. These feelings will persist, even if they aren't realistic. For example, a person suffering from bipolar may be upset that they dropped an item, even if it was not a big deal.

Racing Thoughts

Do you have a hard time concentrating on one thing at a time? Do you quickly lose interest in one project and start many new ones? Especially in a state of hypomania, ideas may be flying around in your head, leaving you with the feeling that you can't accomplish everything. Unfortunately, many of these projects are grandiose and will never end up being completed.

Hypersexuality

While all of us have sexual feelings, in hypomania these feelings become exaggerated. They may cause a bipolar individual to cheat on their spouse, seek out prostitutes, or have anonymous unprotected sex with many anonymous partners. With hypomania, sexual satisfaction cannot be achieved, so one will become sexually frustrated, no matter how many times they achieve orgasm.

Lack of Energy

Everyone feels tired now and again, but in bipolar II, these feelings impair your daily life. You may have a hard time making it to work on time or feel like sleeping on the job. Playing with the kids or pursuing your hobbies can become uninteresting and taxing, eventually leading you to give up all of these activities, to the detriment of your well being and that of those around you.

Coping With Bipolar Disorder

A bipolar disorder is a very serious disease and coping with it is very difficult. However, it is achievable as long as you make a good organized treatment plan. More important is to keep up with the treatment plan in a very serious way.

The hard part about a bipolar disorder is that when the person has a manic episode, the person feels very well, extremely well. He feels so good that he thinks he is god or superman and those people do not need any medication. The effect of this is that the person will not take his medication anymore and the manic episode will get worse. After the manic episode comes a period of depression what could have been prevented would the person take his medication.

Preparing a good treatment plan is essential to cope with bipolar disorder. A treatment plan exists of a very tight schedule when to take the medication. It also states important information whom to contact when the person has a feeling it might go wrong. Your physician or psychologist might help you on time before the manic or depressive episode is evident.

A very good extension to the treatment plan is keeping a journal. Write down everyday how you felt and eventually you will recognize the symptoms when it might go wrong. You become your own expert on noticing when you feel too good or very sad again. In this way you can act on time and consult your psychologist or physician before it is too late.

It is hard top cope with bipolar disorder, but with a good, plan a normal life is achievable as long as you keep yourself to the plan.

Bipolar And Asperger's Disorders - Understanding The Differences Between The Two

Pediatric Bipolar Disorder and Asperger's Disorder are very similar in the way the two illness are treated because their symptoms are similar too. But what exactly are these two diseases and how are they similar?

Pediatric bipolar disorder, or better known as manic depression, is an illness that can present as a mood swings or mood cycling. Patients who suffer from pediatric type one tend to have episodes of mania with alternating with episodes of depression. Patients with pediatric type two experience the thralls of depression with alternating episodes of mania.

Asperger's disorder is associated with autism and is said to be a placid form of the illness. It's actually a type of pervasive development disorder that causes development issues especially where the areas of communication and social development are concerned.

What are the signs of depression and mania in Bipolar Disorder?

Depression signs include: anger, extreme sadness, sleeping too much and feelings of worthlessness. Mania signs are: rage, extreme happiness, increased energy, hyperactivity, distractibility, sleeping too little and obsessive behaviors.

The disorder is caused by four different factors. They are: neurological, biological, emotional and environmental. Yet not all of these factors can be found in every single case. Since little is recognized about the disorder, advances are still being made in this part.

What are the signs of Asperger's Disorder?

Symptoms of this disease include: social skill problems, repetitive behaviors or odd habits, communication difficulties and limited range of interests.

The causes of Asperger's disorder is not well known but studies have shown that it does run in families...meaning it is hereditary. So this must mean that the disease is biological...so it is either neurologically interrelated or genetic, right? At current time, there are no answers to this question.

What are the similarities between Asperger's Disorder and Bipolar Disorder?

Because of its similarities, Asperger's Disorder and Pediatric Bipolar Disorder are very similar and can cause a misdiagnosis. The symptoms that are similar are: odd habits, compulsive behavior and spells of rage. Both disorders tend to lack the social development skills as well as the educational, behavioral and anger issues.

Bipolar can be in combination with Asperger's Disorder and this is, most often, the case. However, it is not clear if the neurological effects that causes Asperger's disorder are related to the chemical imbalances that are thought to be the cause of pediatric bipolar disorder. As doctors'research continues in the area of neurological, technological and psychiatric issues, some answers should be forthcoming about the disease.

Asperger's Disorder and Bipolar Disorder - Treatments behind both illnesses.

The treatments for both diseases are similar; yet there are no medications for Asperger's Disorder but there are medications to treatment the symptoms of it. Since the symptoms of Asperger's are quite similar to bipolar disorder, medications used for bipolar can be used for Asperger's Disorder.

With both bipolar and Asperger disorders, counseling treatments are used but with the medication. Most of the Asperger's patients don't get medication but counseling is required so patients can learn to cope with their diagnosis.

If you know of a child who may be exhibiting any behaviors mentioned above, they should be seen by a physician as soon as possible to be diagnosed. Once a diagnosis has been made, a plan for treatment can be developed. Any undiagnosed disorders for both can lead to real trouble for friends, family and the suffering child.

Living With Bipolar Disorder - How To Turn Negative To Positive

In order to become successful in life, it is quite essential to be healthy and wise. While any sort of physical restrictions of the body can be fought with and dealt with, the central processing unit of our body that is our brain needs to be absolutely perfect in order to live a happy & successful life. For all our errands what we primarily need is a sharp brain so as to understand our environment and act promptly & make well evaluated decisions.

Along with a perfectly working brain, what we need is a control over our emotions. Being over excited or unduly angry all the time would not help us in any way. Quoting in the right terminology all our psychological factors must be balanced enough.

And what if you discover that you yourself have or some of you known to has a brain disorder? One such common brain disorder is bipolar disorder. This disease not only effects our emotions and decisions on daily errands, in extreme cases it can lead to suicides as well.

Here are some facts that you must know about this brain disorder:

1. Those suffering with the bipolar disorder often compare their life to the roller coaster ride. Their life is full of immense highs & extreme lows.

2. While as such there is no perfect cure known for this disorder, there are several ways to control the growth and the mood swings that occur. These methods have helped a lot of patients to live healthy and prolonged life.

3. In case you are constantly not able to do the things well enough; in case you feel that your mind is going dull & that you feel virtually hopeless and useless; in case you no longer relish humor; if you have become uncontrollable, irritable, frightened & angry - then you are suffering with the bipolar disorder.

4. Other key symptoms of bipolar disorder are excessive shyness, intense interest in seduction/sensuality, strong sense of ease, power, euphoria & omnipotence.

5. While many people think that these are just temporary symptoms, it is always advisable to go for medical attention.

6. Before it gets too late, the attention towards such ailment must come as fast as possible, to avoid all unwanted & disastrous results.

In case you find such symptoms in yourself or some of your family members, instead of getting despaired and feeling hopeless, you must start working on the therapeutic resources. Some of these resources are as follows:

1. Bipolar Advantage - a book that helps you get through with Bipolar Disorder

Written by Tom Wootton, this book explains all the essential and advanced aspects of the bipolar disorder. While ailment cannot be seen as an advantage, with a two years research Tom Wootton in this book explains a true positive approach towards this condition.

Some of the key features of this book are as follows:

i. Bipolar Advantage primarily helps you accepting the situation and further guides you through the struggle to become a better individual.

ii. This book talks about Introspection - that is how to change your habits to accentuate the positive aspects, and working towards minimizing the negative ones.

iii. The book explains a step by step plan to do so. First you must create & accomplish a vision that is what you want exactly. Next, you formulate a plan so as to achieve your goals.

iv. Tom Wootton was once misdiagnosed as a patient of bipolar disorder. That way he had a first hand experience of both sides of the disorder - good as well as bad. Henceforth, he has learnt and developed several methods to cope with the situations arising due to this disorder. He now also conducts seminars for the benefit of the patients suffering with bipolar disorder.

v. This book consists of Tom Wootton's personal experiences and several case studies to better explain the therapies and another related aspects of the disorder, almost in the real life situations.

2. Surf through the Bipolar Websites

The World Wide Web or the internet is nowadays the richest source of information that you must bank on. A popular website known as Bipolar Advantage deals all the aspects of bipolar disorder that is all goods & bad. The website is a good source that would provide you all sorts of information needed regarding the ailment. The website also focuses strongly on the situations, symptoms and treatments of the disorder.

Besides, this you can go on your choicest search engine and look for further information regarding the disorder. As the experts advise, it is all the worth spending your time and energy in this sort of a patient research.

3. In Audio

With the help of a computer and internet connection at home, the patients suffering with bipolar disorder can make use the modern technology that is, the radio (that operates rather effectively with a flash player loaded in your computer). Through internet, you can log on to this therapeutic radio at your convenience.

Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder - A Mixed Bag

When I studied bipolar disorder in medical school, I thought it was very simple. You got high, you got low, you got better, then you started again.

Then I started to have painful psychological symptoms, so I looked up the books, but no disorder seemed to fit my experience very well.

The official version of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are contained in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition published by the American Psychiatric Association). This, however, didn't throw much light on things, because to quote the Manual itself, 'it is produced for mental health specialists, its use by people without clinical training can lead to inappropriate application of its contents.' Great.

Undeterred, I discovered that the symptoms of highs were elation, feeling invincible, irritated, being busy, talking fast, thinking fast, sleeplessness. My 'depression' was supposed to involve being dejected, pessimistic, taking no fun or joy out of life, having no energy, having poor concentration and/or believing I was bad to the core.

But my experience was something else altogether. I would get angry over nothing, very wound up and do drastic, frantic things such as try to run away from home, or tie a steak to the gate handle (weird, that one!) before trying to punch out my bewildered neighbor.

In between these times I would enjoy one to two month periods where I had tons of energy, plenty of great ideas. I wrote a short book during this time, and when I tired of typing I would push back the furniture and dance alone every night. I lost weight. I never complained about these times: after all, I was having a great time, achieving great things, and I'd dropped a dress size.

If it took a long time to be diagnosed, this was why. My symptoms were a mix of mania and depression. Most clinicians are looking for a classical picture of either elation or melancholia. But mixed states have elements of mania and depression at the same time. They have some colorful names such as 'Black Mania' and 'Depression with flight of ideas.'

Mixed states are common, occurring in 40 to 50% of episodes, so in about half of cases, bipolar disorder is difficult even for experts to notice. This is one reason suggested to explain the long time it takes to diagnose bipolar disorder.

There are lists of typical bipolar symptoms available but they are invariably presented under the headings of 'mania' and 'depression'. Manic symptoms include elation, feeling invincible, irritability, busy, talking fast, thinking fast and having lots of ideas, sleeplessness. Depressive symptoms include dejection, pessimism, getting no enjoyment from life, difficulty concentrating, lethargy, belief that 'I am a bad person' and so on.

If you consult these lists, feel free to identify with symptoms of both. The other factor with bipolar disorder is that people tend to self-medicate. Alcohol does have a moderating effect on manic symptoms and so it is not surprising that many people suffering from mania elect to drink. My great-grandfather, a typical manic depressive, drank 'to still the mind.' He was right, to a point.

If you're looking on at someone who may have bipolar disorder but is obviously drinking, their symptoms will be exaggerated bipolar symptoms plus the usual symptoms of alcohol intoxication. Thus the aggression, abusiveness, abruptness of alcohol toxicity will complicate the manic symptoms, such as sleeplessness, irritability, pressure of speech and flight of ideas, social extraversion, and impulsiveness, for example.

If you or a friend sometimes has bouts of weird, frightening or over the top behavior, bipolar disorder could provide an explanation. There are some good screening tests available in the public domain, but to get a definite answer a proper medical assessment is required.

Bipolar disorder is not hard to recognise if you remember the symptoms, and that it comes in episodes of weeks to months; it may be complicated by alcohol or other drug use; and symptoms of depression and mania may occur at the same time.

For you or a friend to get a proper diagnosis, you'll need to be organized. Record all the events that you think might be due to bipolar disorder, then give that information to a medical practitioner. What happens after that is up to the person with the symptoms.

How to Treat Bipolar Disorder in Males

Manic-depressive disorder is the name previously given to bipolar disorder, which basically is a problem in which the man suffers from dramatic mood swings. A man, however, is less likely than a woman to have these mood swings occur rapidly because he typically will suffer from the more traditional bipolar I disorder rather than bipolar II. He may suffer depression and be distraught for days, followed by periods of feeling happy to the point of delirium. These extreme highs and lows may interfere with his daily life and cause problems with personal relationships. He may even be suicidal during his depressive phases.

Sometimes hospitalization is needed for a man who suffers greatly from this disorder. If he is feeling suicidal or homicidal, he may need to be hospitalized for evaluation and treatment by a psychiatrist who specializes in bipolar disorder. In the hospital, he can be monitored and evaluated for possible further treatment. The main goal, the Mayo Clinic states, is to treat the immediate problem.

Once any immediate threat to or by the man is mitigated, the next step, the Mayo Clinic reports, is to contain the symptoms of bipolar disorder. For this reason, even before he goes into counseling, his psychiatrist or physician may prescribe medications to balance his moods. Generally, he will start with a mood stabilizer such as lithium and anticonvulsants such as divalproex, asenapine and valproic acid. There are a number of other medications, too, that may be prescribed for the man suffering from bipolar disorder. These medications are monitored by a psychiatrist for effectiveness and therapeutic effects which are associated with this disorder. If the depression is too great, the psychiatrist may prescribe antidepressants such as fluoxetine and venlafaxine. Antipsychotics such as risperidone and quetiapine may be used as well as benzodiazepines such as diazepam and alprazolam if the man has anxiety symptoms.

After the man's chemical imbalances are corrected with medications, he then may be treated with psychotherapy. This is an individual based psychological treatment that involves a psychologist or psychiatrist who will help him focus upon and work to solve his emotional problems. The bipolar sufferer will be encouraged to talk about his feelings, as well as to discuss his childhood and any trauma or other problems that may help to spur his disorder. In order to cope with his bipolar disorder, the man may need to remain in counseling and continue to take medications for the rest of his life.

Bipolar Stigma: From A Bipolar Disorder Patient's Point-Of-View

Stigma - noun ( pl. stigmas or esp. in sense 2 stigmata |stig-mäta| ) a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person: the stigma of mental disorder

Today's mass media are the number-one enemy of the mentally ill. Their relentless drumbeat of anachronistic stigma and images of mood disorder patients are shameful. They portray bipolar disorder patients as cold-blooded killers and depict images of patients lying on couches undergoing psychoanalysis, harsh institutional environments like those shown in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and flailing patients undergoing "shock" therapy. These antiquated stereotypes are untrue.

Today patients are stabilized, not pharmaceutically "managed" to make them groggy and more easily handled. Medical and psychological treatments are instead humanely administered in comfortable settings, all the while treating the whole individual mentally, physically and emotionally. Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it can be managed and the patient stabilized. Stabilization is achieved by means of:

• Psychological Counseling


• Psychiatric Drug Therapy


• Patient Positive Lifestyle Changes

"Pop psychologists" like Dr. Phil demean the profession by chasing fame and wealth at the expense of their "victims." They stoop to street-talk terms in discussing and dramatizing issues rather than using accurate clinical terms, referring to a schizophrenic as "crazy," for example. They promote dramatic interpersonal conflicts to raise viewer ratings. So it is with "expert witness" psychologists who serve as hired guns whenever an attorney needs help with a case. These doctors' primary skill is uttering clinical "shop talk" to impress juries and drive home an attorney's point.

Aside from seeking wealth, these two brands of psychologists shun clinical work and avoid interaction with real patients to eliminate encounters with unpleasant patients, and to avoid the risks and overhead associated with being in business. Malpractice insurance and unpaid accounts come to mind.

The general public has little to rely on other than errant media views coupled with the strange behaviors of mental patients. When coupled, these two forces create the societal stigma that now exists in the U.S. Folks need to know the truth:

• Bipolar Disorder and Clinical Depression are biologically caused, like diabetes or cancer


• Bipolar Disorder is mostly genetic in origin and/or results from extreme stress


• Bipolar Episodes can be triggered by traumatic incidents or by extreme physical, mental, or emotional stressors


• "Misbehaviors" of mood disorder patients are involuntary


• "Misbehaviors" of mood disorder patients are not character flaws or moral weakness


• "Misbehaviors" of mood disorder patients are not sin


• The typical course of Bipolar Disorder is one of launching into mania and then descending into depression. In "mixed-states" mania and depression occur together

One must be armed with the truth in order to withstand and combat the insults and abuse that accompany those of us who must endure the ridicule of others. Many of us are too shy, embarrassed or timid to go on offense. If unable to confront these detractors personally, a bipolar person can join a larger organization dedicated to ending stigmatization of the mentally ill.

The bottom line is that bipolar patients can lead fruitful and fulfilling lives -despite the disorder-when following their treatment plans and choosing positive lifestyle changes.