Bipolar Disorder - Is Your Loved One Lying to You?

Many supporters of a loved one with bipolar disorder feel, at times, as if their loved one is lying to them. If you feel this way, you need to know that you are not alone. This is a common feeling for supporters to experience.

Bipolar disorder is a chemical imbalance of the brain. The major characteristic of the disorder is mood swings - from "high highs" (a sense of euphoria, or extreme happiness) to "low lows" (a sense of depression, or extreme sadness). At their extreme, these mood swings can become bipolar episodes.

When a person with bipolar disorder goes into an episode, they can exhibit unusual behavior, or risk-taking behavior, that they would normally not exhibit. Some of the behaviors exhibited during a bipolar manic episode are the following: excessive spending (or shoplifting); risky sexual behavior (or promiscuity); reckless driving; gambling; substance abuse; etc.

With the advent of a manic episode and the above listed behaviors, come consequences of such behaviors; such as: financial; interpersonal; personal; medical; and, possibly, legal ones.

One of the problems that arise is that, many times, the person with bipolar disorder has no memory of what happened during their bipolar episode - so, for example, when they wake up in jail or in the hospital, they may not know how they got there or why they are there.

When it comes to you, their supporter, they may say or do things during their episode that you remember quite well, so that when the discussion of the event comes up, you think they are lying about it. You may even feel anger at your loved one, or accuse them of denying that the event ever happened. You may think your loved one is trying to get out of the consequences, even if it is as small as a simple apology to you.

Your loved one, however, may not have any idea of what you're talking about! They may get defensive at being called a liar or even get angry with you. They may actually not have any memory of the event at all, which is common for someone in a bipolar episode; so, in fact, they are not lying to you, as much as it may seem that way.

On the other hand, there are some people with bipolar disorder who will take advantage of the fact that they have been in a bipolar episode and will lie on purpose to try to avoid accepting the consequences of their behavior and actions. This is wrong and, if it is happening to you, your loved one must be held accountable.

Whichever the case, lying is very common when it comes to bipolar disorder, so if you feel as if your loved one is lying to you, chances are that you are, indeed, experiencing this phenomenon.

If you have a loved one who has lied to you, you must first distinguish whether they have lied to you on purpose or simply have no memory of the event. In the former case, they must be held accountable while, in the latter case, you must be understanding and forgiving, as you will get nowhere but frustrated if you are not.

More Interesting Facts About Bipolar

More and more often these days, people are hearing the term 'bipolar' when addressing behavior problems or issues in friends, acquaintances and family members. The term evokes images of evil behavior in many, while others merely shrug, unaware of what the condition is or how it presents itself in someone's daily life. Basically, being diagnosed as bipolar is identical to what is now more commonly known as manic depression.

More than two million people within the United States have been diagnosed with a bipolar condition, or disease, one that can affect all social classes and age groups. Older people as well as children can be diagnosed with the mental illness that has the power to damage the professional and private lives of those suffering from mood swings that can range from severely depressed to almost hyperactive euphoria and good will.

While many people suffering from this mental disorder may avoid the deep depressions and manic 'highs' of the disease due to proper treatment and medication, thousands of others who have been unable to obtain such treatment suffer from dangerously dehabilitating episodes of depression that threaten relationships, jobs and sometimes, lead to suicide.

Others experiencing the manic side of bipolar symptoms may be happy, cheerful and, to all purposes, 'normal', while others lose reasoning powers that cause them to make decisions they would not normally make. Many bipolar sufferers, when experiencing the manic phase of the condition, make bad financial investments and decisions that affect them for the rest of their lives.

For some, severe depressions and manic episodes are avoided and lifestyles maintain rather normal behavior patterns and remain undiagnosed. Others, after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, take medications to maintain as normal a lifestyle as possible.

After much research throughout the past few decades, the disorder is now considered to be one that will find a sufferer constantly experiencing one of several ranges of behaviors, from mild to severe. Many patients respond very well to psychotherapy and medications, sometimes a combination of the two.

For those who come from families with a history of the disease, the likelihood that future generations will be diagnosed with the disease increase by more than half. Researchers have been seeking a genetic link to the prevalence of the disease in families, and some progress has been made in studies of gene and myelin development within the central nervous system. Other studies have shown that over one half of patients diagnosed with a bipolar disorder have a history of past substance abuse, especially the use of cocaine.

Left untreated, a diagnosis of a bipolar condition can lead to disrupted lives, feelings of worthlessness, and for many, suicide. Treatment is available and in most cases, helps those diagnosed with the disorder. However, it's important for family and friends to know and recognize the signs and symptoms of behaviors that may indicate a bipolar condition, since more often than not, the person suffering from the condition is hesitant, and understandably so, to discuss their mental state with others.

Bipolar Disorder - The Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Moody, insane and manic depression is all terms associated with those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. The two categories of bipolar are type one or type 2 which type one being the most common as well as the most severe. Those diagnosed with type one are more prone to psychotic episodes as well as the various mood swings. Type two consists of alternating between depression and mild bouts of hypomania, these individuals rarely display severe mania. The disorder is equally distributed among males and females with both displaying similar symptoms.

There are an estimated two million Americans that have been diagnoses or display symptoms of bipolar disorder. The average age of onset occurs during the late teens to early adulthood; however, cases have been reported while in early childhood as well as late adulthood. Many of these individuals will experience the symptoms of several years before a diagnosis is made.

During a manic phase the individual displays extreme energy, excitement and an inability to contain desires. While in a manic phase it is not unusual for an individual to spend excessive amounts of money and in the majority of circumstances it is in the form of writing checks for extravagant purchases without money in the bank to cover the check. During a manic phase they are also known to be very generous with others by giving away valued items or buying expensive gifts. Those with type 1 disorder will have psychotic episodes that include hallucinations, delusions and bizarre thoughts. During a psychotic episode the individuals are unable to distinguish between real and imaginary, therefore they are at a greater risk of harm from environmental hazards.

The manic phase will vary in duration with the average being approximately two weeks, although it can last a month or longer. Immediately following the manic phase the individual will go into the depression phase which also has an average duration of two weeks, however, it often longer than the manic phase. During the depression phase, the individual poses an extremely high risk of suicide attempts and should be provided with increased observation. They also will sleep for several days at a time, have a decrease in appetite, have a very low level of energy and often seclude themselves from others during the entire phase.

Individuals with bipolar disorder also have an extremely high rate of substance abuse. The individual in an attempt to self medicate the symptoms of the disorder eventually becomes addicted to alcohol or drug use. This is referred to as a dual diagnosis, in that the individual is diagnoses with bipolar disorder as well as a substance abuse disorder. These individuals also will often display symptoms of seasonal affective disorder and post traumatic stress disorder which also classifies them as having a dual diagnosis.

The majority of individuals do not seek treatment until they are in the depressive phase, which usually only receives a diagnosis of depression resulting in them not being diagnosed as bipolar for many years. The disorder is treatable through therapy and medications. It is often difficult to get the bipolar individual into treatment when in the manic phase as they are energetic and feel good, therefore are under the false impression that they are no longer ill. These individuals also are notorious for going off of medications due to false beliefs that they feel fine so no longer are in need of the medication, when in reality the medications have leveled the moods. Bipolar individuals are continuously cycling through treatments and believing they are cured.

About Bipolar Disorder

Sometimes referred to as bipolar affective disorder, bipolar disorder is classified as a Meta 1 condition that impacts the mood of the individual. Essentially, the disorder can create rapid and extreme swings in mood that may range from the sufferer becoming almost catatonic to extremely violent. Irrational behavior during an episode is not uncommon among many people who deal with bipolar disorder. The frustration and sense of not being in control often leads to depression and other issues that only serve to make the disorder more pronounced.

Most experts agree that bipolar disorder is actually a collective term for several types of mood disorders. Mania, which is a state of an unusually elevated mood is part of the bipolar experience. Rapid descent into depression is often another element within the perimeters of bipolar activity. The patient may rapidly move from one state to another, with few or no periods of feeling emotionally stable. Panic attacks are not uncommon during a bipolar episode.

The presence of bipolar disorder is often diagnosed in early adulthood, although the condition may become apparent at any point in life. When the presence of the disorder is suspected, the attending physician or mental health professional will take into consideration the self-reported experiences of the individual as well as observe the patient under controlled conditions.

There are a number of reasons why an individual may have bipolar disorder. Various studies indicate that factors such as genetics, neurological issues, and early developmental experiences may serve as triggers. Social problems in the family, workplace, or community may help to trigger a bipolar response. Psychological issues that result from stress and environmental factors may also lead to bipolar activity.

In terms of treatment, persons suffering with bipolar disorder may respond to various types of medication. Lithium and sodium valproate are commonly employed. Anti psychotic medications like olanzapine are among the neuroleptic drugs that help in many cases. At present, there is some debate about the use of anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs as treatments for bipolar disorder. Therapy also is often helpful in resolving some of the underlying issues and helping the patient to reclaim some of his or her life. This union of prescription medication and therapy can help minimize and sometimes eliminate the recurrence of manic episodes.

For more information about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of bipolar disorder, it is often helpful to speak with a qualified health professional. This may be your primary care physician, or a health professional that deals specifically with bipolar disorder treatments.

Bipolar I Disorder Vs Bipolar II Disorder - The Difference

You may have been told you have bipolar disorder, but you may not have been told which type you have - bipolar I or bipolar II. Even if you have, you may be wondering what the difference is between the two types.

The first thing you need to know is that there IS a difference.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by the American Psychiatric Association, it is broken down as follows:

BIPOLAR I:

Single Manic Episode

The patient has had just one Manic Episode and no Major Depressive Episodes.

Most Recent Episode (MRE) Manic

The patient has had at least one Major Depressive, Manic or a Mixed Episode.

MRE Hypomanic

The patient has previously had one or more Manic or Mixed Episodes (ME).

The symptoms cause clinically important distress or impair work, social or personal functioning.

MRE Mixed

The patient's most recent episode is of mixed mania and depression.

The survivor has had at least one Major Depressive, Mixed or Manic Episodes.

MRE Depressed

The patient has had at least one previous Manic or Mixed Episode.

MRE Unspecified

Other than duration, the patient currently or recently meets criteria for Major Depressive, Manic, Mixed, or Hypomanic episode.

The patient has had at least one previous Manic or Mixed Episode.

These symptoms cause clinically important distress or impair work, social or personal functioning.

BIPOLAR II:

The patient has had at least one Major Depressive Episode.

Or has had at least one Hypomanic Episode.

There have been no Manic or Mixed Episodes.

These symptoms cause clinically important distress or impair work, social or personal functioning.

Specify Current or Most Recent Episode: Hypomanic. Depressed.

The difference between bipolar I and bipolar II, then, is that in bipolar II there is NO manic or mixed episodes; whereas, in every case of bipolar I, there IS mania involved.

Bipolar Disorder and Impulsivity

Living with someone who has bipolar disorder when they are not in an episode is just like living with someone who does not have the disorder (as long as they are taking their medication). However, when they go into a manic episode, you may have to deal with things like impulsivity.

Impulsivity involves performing some type of action which is spontaneous on the part of the person. In other words, they give no thought to the consequences of their actions.

For example, someone may choose to gamble on an impulse. He gives no thought to the consequences. He may even think to himself, "This is legal, there's no harm to it." Yet, the next thing he knows, his impulsivity has turned to compulsion, and he has lost all his money - all because he gave no thought to his impulse and he acted on it. In other words, he didn't think ahead.

Other examples of impulsive behaviors can include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Reckless driving (speeding, etc.)

• Excessive spending

• Risky sexual behavior

• Substance abuse

• Anger, rage, and/or violence

• Abuse

• Self-injury

• Suicidal tendencies or acts

• Poor choices

• Rash decisions

• Selfish actions

• Risk-taking behaviors

Some of these behaviors in and of themselves are not illegal, dangerous, or harmful; however, other behaviors, especially when taken to the extreme, are not only harmful to your loved one, but to you and others as well.

When your loved one is acting impulsively, as stated earlier, they are giving no thought to their action, or to its consequences. They are acting selfishly, thinking only of the pleasure of the moment. That's the problem with impulsivity - it sneaks up on you and, before you know it, it's over, and you are facing its consequences.

Impulsive actions, many times, are a result of a bipolar manic episode. They have cost many people with bipolar disorder their jobs, families, homes, friends, marriages, reputations, and more. For some people with the disorder, it has cost them everything they held dear.

The only way to control impulsivity is by controlling the mania, and that is through medication.

Bipolar Disorder - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Bipolar disorder, also known as Manic-Depression or Manic-Depressive-Illness, is a mental illness characterized by an alternating pattern of emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). This condition is divided into two main sub-types: Bipolar I disorder, with the presence of at least one manic episode; and Bipolar II disorder, with at least one episode of depression and at least one hypomanic episode. In addition, some people have rapid cycling bipolar disorder, with four or more mood swings within twelve months; and mixed state bipolar disorder, in which symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously. The cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but a variety of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors are known to trigger this condition.

Bipolar disorder is a long term condition that requires life-long treatment, even during periods of remission. The Ayurvedic treatment of this condition is aimed at treating the presenting symptoms and preventing recurrence of the condition. In order to treat the manic phase of this condition, medicines like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), Jyotishmati (Celastrus panniculatus) and Kushmand (Benincasa hispida) are used. A special procedure called 'Shirodhara' is also quite useful in reducing agitation, aggression and sleeplessness.

To treat the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, medicines like Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Vishwa (Zinziber officinalis), Vacha, Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Shilajit (Purified bitumen), Tankan (Purified borax) and Makardhwaj are used. In order to prevent recurrence of this condition, medicines like Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Amalaki, Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Vacha, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Suvarna-Bhasma, Abhrak-Bhasma, Trivang-Bhasma and Suvarna -Parpati are used in small doses for prolonged periods.

It is important to adapt a healthy life style; and avoid self medication and known conditions which can precipitate symptoms of bipolar disorder. Family therapy, group therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can help in considerably reducing symptoms of this condition. Left untreated, bipolar disorder can result in severe emotional, legal and financial problems and can even result in suicide. Regular treatment and supervision by a Psychiatrist is therefore very important in this condition.

Christian Faith, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia - Part Two

If you have read part one you have already ready read five pages of the things I had to write about tonight. I am not sure how other people write. I write from the heart, and so I do not do a lot of study, even when I write a teaching from the scriptures, I write and use scriptures that I know. I'd like to think in my articles I would say the same things if I was speaking to you face to face.

My life keeps me quite lonely. I am happy to say I have made a couple of friends through my articles, one Bipolar man overseas that might collaborate on designing a website with me, and another Bipolar girl in my own city who is going to become a café latte coffee friend and someone to chat to on the phone. Both were touched by my articles and so for fellow Bipolars and the people who love them I spend another night up typing.

So how do I write five pages without editing except for my proofreader?

Just like this. I sit down and start speaking by using my hands on a keyboard. I have a radio playing favourite hits from the last 20 years and my brain clicking and thoughts tumbling out and putting sentences together and they come out onto the screen at roughly 25 words a minute. I am hopeless at spelling and grammar and not even spell-check can fix my problems, but my proofreader can do wonders with what I write. Perhaps if you have not any confidence in your writing you might find yourself a proofreader and put something down on paper. I am so pleased to have my proofreader. He is a good friend and he loves to read what I have to write and guess what? He is Bipolar also! Lol

When you live with a living God and you know that God sees everything you are doing and you have been loved by Him like I have, then you have confidence to share your warts and all truth. When you have no fear of truth coming out, you can simply sit down and write from the heart. When you write the truth from your heart, on many occasions the Holy Spirit can use what you have written. Many times in conversation with people, they say, "that's amazing that you are saying that, I was only reading that yesterday and wanted to know the answer to that and look tonight you have told me."

When you write from the heart, rather then write from much study, so much more is left up to pure inspiration and with inspiration the Holy Spirit gets a chance to place sentences into your mind. When you're crafting a sentence the same can be true but it comes more from your mind then from your spirit. Writing from your heart and speaking from your heart is speaking from where your spirit resides. And there the first page is gone already!

Writing a warning from God to a nation.

When Jesus told me to write to the nation of the USA with a last day's message it was around 12.30am in the morning. Little did I know it would be forty five pages long!

As they only allow a maximum of five pages online here in each article it would have to go to nine articles. I have not yet done that and made it nine articles.

So what can you do when the Holy Spirit directs you to do something like that?

You obey.

I have only read it twice. I had a friend edit it a little for me, taking out some of my bias out of the message. I had it on a website and had 1500 read it and have only had 3 people write to me. I don't know how many people read all of it but 1500 people in this last year since December 2005 have read it. I'd like to put it on another website one day and advertise it.

Am I mad to write a prophetic message from God? Well no. It took some guts to write it. Since I wrote it I have read a couple of confirmations of it. God is angry with the moral decay of the West and the lukewarm Christianity that exists today. He is angry with the half hearted Christian life that is a life of taking from Him rather then a life of full time service. He is upset with the average Christian not leading anyone to the faith and not even sharing their faith.

On sharing your faith, an excellent book and the very best book I have read is "Share Jesus without fear, by William Fay."

As an evangelist/prophetic person I value when an evangelist speaks. William says close to 90% of conversions to the Christian faith come from one on one encounters with a Christian and another person. In his book he shares a tried and proven method of doing one on one Gospel presentations of which he has done 25,000 himself. He is more than qualified.

No one taught me to prophesy, no one taught me how to use my gift of prophecy to evangelise people, well that's if you don't call the Holy Spirit a person lol. Yes I have been many things simply through the Holy Spirit and when I prophesy to a person or to a whole nation isn't that the self same Holy Spirit that must bring the message?

Being delivered from demons... having demons speak to you... having a demon pretend to be the Holy Spirit and tell you lies and direct you to do things that you assume are God telling you to do.

I suggest every person who knows a person gifted in deliverance get themselves checked out by that person. A person can be full of pride and not have a demon of pride, yet sometimes they do. Humility is the answer to pride but being humble is hard to be when you are full of pride. Even with a low self esteem I struggle with pride.

Having demons speak to you.

You cannot speak to another person on earth through telepathy. This may upset some of you who currently do so and this may even hurt you more, but I am going to say it. If you think you are currently speaking to a known celebrity or some famous person on earth, ask them for their mobile phone number and ring it right away. If they don't give you the number, they are a demon pretending to be a human. This hurts to know, but its only when you are willing to give up your voice that you have hope of getting right with God.

Having a demon pretend to be the Holy Spirit and tell you lies and direct you to do things that you assume are God telling you to do.

When Jesus or God is speaking to you, in many cases it is NOT Jesus or God. On many occasions it is a false spirit.

On these occasions you can test the spirit according to 1 John 4:2 by asking, "Are you Jesus Christ who came to earth in the flesh and dwelt among men and died for their sins and on the third day came back to life?"

If the spirit answers yes, then you have Jesus and you can speak and trust the spirit. If you get no answer or anything but a yes don't listen to the spirit. I have two people that have told me this, and this test is from 1 John in the Bible, and I trust it. So go ahead and test the spirits.

The false Jesus, or false Holy Spirit has got me into a lot of trouble. It has been the source of a lot of my delusions and my manic behaviour and many things that have got me in trouble with the law. I test the spirits these days before I go ahead. Satan is very upset that I am not having many two way conversations with Jesus these days as he is not getting the opportunity to deceive me.

Many Christians never really hear the clear voice of Jesus or the Holy Spirit yet Jesus says quite clearly in scripture, "My sheep hear my voice and they follow me."

After reading this you may be all freaked out and wondering how on one hand I can write a prophecy or prophesy to a person in the flesh or over the Internet and on the other hand be so honest on how many times I have been deceived.

I know Christians who will never step out in the gift of prophecy simply because they do not want to get the false Jesus on the line. They are willing not to hear from Jesus all their life so that they won't be deceived. Most people have no idea about testing the spirits.

Staying up for three days and three nights without sleep.

I try not to do this too often, but I have to say I do enjoy doing it. To be able to stay up for two days is a gift I have that my mental illness allows me to have. It forces me into a mania a "high". After a day and a half I can get quite emotional.

Sometimes when I am on the phone to my mother and I start crying she is able to tell I am "High" and often asks if I have been sleeping. This is answered with the truth and it makes my mother worry.

To be able to stay up all this time, a person has to be busy doing something. You can't just lay on a sofa and close your eyes and relax or you are soon asleep. You have to be able to be talking or writing or watching TV or something.

The longer I am up the more creative I am. Sometimes I spend a whole night up and I write five of my articles in a day and a half. Sometimes it's taken me three hours to write part one and down to here in part two. It's 3am in the morning and I will stay up all night and today and go to sleep tonight.

Jesus spent a lot of time up. Sometimes He went all day and all night up. The less sleep He had the more on fire He was because He had spent more time with His Father.

Sleeping for two days straight.

I used to fall into a major depression once a year and now it seems every few weeks I have a cycle where I simply can't get out of bed. I sleep forever and even around 3pm in the afternoon when I get up, unless I am busy I end up going back to bed I am so tired.

Well three days like this and all the sleep pulls me into a depression. This is very hard on me. I have just suffered a whole week like it and it is very tiresome. This week I simply felt so overwhelmed and overtaken by my illness that I thought of giving up. My prayer life has suffered my Bible reading has suffered. The more I don't pray and the more I don't spend time in the Word the less spiritual strength I have to fight.

If you have a loved one who sleeps a lot. Please accept this is not because they are lazy. Right now I could be sleeping, but I am up trying to fight this depression and having a creative night that might do a few people some good.

Mental illness can be such a struggle. A few weeks ago everything seemed rosy in my life. This last week in depression has sent me on a bender. If I was a drunk I would have really picked up the bottle. I know Satan hates the fact that I have given up the sex workers and is trying to bury me, but I have bought myself some St Johns Wort and I know that if I have to fight this with chemicals within a few weeks St Johns Wort will be winning the battle.

I love Jesus so very much. All night He has been playing me songs on the radio and singing to me and encouraging me. So even though sometimes I get stuck in bed for days, I know when the Holy Spirit inspires me I can stay up all night and write something like this article, The Christian faith, Bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia.

Being so depressed you can't even wash clothes, shower, shave or cook for yourself...
It's been two days since I have showered, I have almost run out of clothes, I have a weeks growth on my cheeks. I have no food in the house save breakfast cereal of which I have been eating.

In the past week I have only been up at the most, six hours a day and at the beginning of the week it took of all my mental strength not to ring all of my appointments this week and cancel them all, I simply could not be bothered to keep them.

After I finish this I have promised myself I am going to treat myself to a shower and a shave and to change into my last pair of clean clothes. I have loaded the washing machine and when the time is right about 7am I am going to put the washer on and by the time my case worker comes at 10 am the clothes should be hung out to dry.

Depression just locks you down. It kind of just shuts down your system. And just when you need friends you sort of shut yourself up from your friends and close your self off to others. That's if you have many friends anyway. I am fortunate that I need to be in touch with my proofreader as we speak at least a couple of times a week.

It hurts so much being depressed. But because the hurt can't be measured some people just can't seem to understand it. For a person that has had mental illness for fourteen years I thought it would take something pretty big to shake me. But I have to say this past week has given me a shake, that it's only scripture and the promises in the Bible that keeps my faith strong.

But I have to share with you, I am really scared. The first 30 articles might be a lot more upbeat then this one. But I have to tell you the truth. Satan hates people. He wants us to kill ourselves if he can achieve it. I am past looking for ways to kill myself but depression really scares me.

Take the time to pray for me and others who suffer with these illnesses. I hope part one and two gave you some insight.

Bipolar Disorder - Getting Health Insurance If You Have Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, manic-depressive disorder, or bipolar affective disorder, is a mental health condition in which sufferers experience alternative periods of elation and depression. This condition is expensive to treat because it requires daily medication and frequent doctor's visits. Unfortunately, if bipolar disorder is a pre-existing medical condition, patients may not be able to receive coverage. Even if this disorder was diagnosed after enrolling in a health insurance plan, patients may run into problems. However, getting coverage is possible. Here's what the insurance company will want to know.

A health insurance company will first want to know if you are employed. People with Bipolar Disorder pose a significant financial risk to an insurance company due to the sheer amount of doctor's visits and medication required. They need to know if you can pay the premiums as well as anything they cannot cover. Usually all you will need to do is provide the company with your employer's information; they will then verify your employment by contacting your place of work. Make sure to let your boss know that the insurance company may be calling so he or she will not be caught off guard.

The insurance company will also need to know exactly when you were diagnosed as well as when the last major episode occurred. There may be a formal request for your medical records, in which case you will need to supply them with the name of your physician. However, if you have not been hospitalized recently, this may not be an issue. Basically, the insurance company wants to know the chances that you might require an inpatient or outpatient hospital visit. They will do this by looking at your medical history, progress, and number of hospital visits.

Finally, the health insurance company will want to know exactly what medication you are taking as well as how you are responding to it. Again, they are assessing your risk to determine how much you will cost them. Do you need a lot of medication to function? Have you been through many different types of medication to find one that worked? They will take a look at how well you have been progressing since you started medication in order to determine your overall stability. Showing the insurance company that your Bipolar Disorder poses few risks will greatly improve your chances of getting approved for coverage.

If you need assistance in locating particular coverages at a pre-determined price, we can help you save up to 50% on your health insurance monthly premium.

Understanding the 3 Main Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are three main types of bipolar disorder. Understanding the three different types of bipolar disorder will help you be able to diagnose and spot the different types and have knowledge about each one. If you have friends or family members that suffer from some form of bipolar, having an awareness of the different types will help you understand them and create a special relationship with a person that has a mood disorder or mental illness. As a rule of thumb, you should always seek to understand people first before wanting to be understood.

The first type of bipolar disorder is called bipolar one. This is the most classic form of the disorder and diagnosed in most patients. This particular type allows patients to have both episodes of mania and depression over time. Because of many overlapping symptoms, this is often misdiagnosed as schizophrenia and borderline personality disorder. It is not the fault of the doctors, just many overlapping symptoms and other confusing aspects of mood disorders and mental illnesses.

Being able to spot signs and symptoms of mania and depression are fairly easily if you are educated in doing so. Mania usually involves high amounts of energy and becoming extremely irritable at different times for no apparent reason. Having a lack of patience is a very common side effect of individuals experiencing a manic episode. Depression on the other hand is usually quite the opposite, allowing patients to be very down, empty inside and said most of the day. Mixed episodes are also very common where individuals can have symptoms of both depression and mania.

The second form is called bipolar two disorder. This is very similar to bipolar one, except for the manic episodes associated with this type of bipolar are referred to as hypomanic episodes. They are not as extreme in nature, often leaving patients to feel very euphoric as if nothing is wrong. They do experience full-blown depressive episodes, just like individuals that have type 1 bipolar disorder.

The third type is referred to as rapid cycling bipolar disorder. This is where individuals will have depressive and manic episodes that are very recurrent and fast pace. In order to be properly diagnosed with rapid cycling, a person must experience a minimum of four episodes of either mania or depression, or a combination of both within the 12 month period. Whenever this diagnosis is made, proper treatment must follow immediately for the safety of the patient.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Most of us have heard the term Manic Depression in our lives. Now, it's called Bipolar Disorder. But what is it really, and what is it like to live with it?

Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness. It's a chemical disorder in the brain which causes severe mood swings in varying degrees from severe depression to wild mania. Currently, it is thought to affect approximately 2 million people in the United States, but that figure probably is way off as people continue to go undiagnosed for a variety of reasons.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:

Depression

• Feeling sad, anxious, or having an "empty" mood
  


• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  


• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
  


• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
  


• Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down", feeling exhausted or drained
  


• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
  


• Insomnia, waking up earlier than normal, or oversleeping
  


• Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain
  


• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
  


• Restlessness, irritability
  


• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Mania

• Abnormal or excessive elation, feeling as if one is on top of the world: invincible
  


• Unusual irritability
  


• Decreased need for sleep
  


• Grandiose notions
  


• Increased talking
  


• Racing thoughts
  


• Increased sexual desire
  


• Markedly increased energy
  


• Poor judgement
  


• Inappropriate social behavior

Living with Bipolar Disorder can be very difficult. Please note that I do not speak for every single person living with BP when I describe what some lives are like. Some people manage to live very normal, productive lives.

In a depression phase, it's nearly impossible to get out of bed, or even wake up at all. If we do make it out of bed, we usually find ourselves on the couch, not able to do anything productive until we begin to cycle up into a manic phase. Our houses become messy, we are not able to focus on anything, we feel like we don't care about anything, we often won't shower for days or weeks, we don't go anywhere. We lose our jobs, our homes, our friends, and sometimes our families. We are chronically suicidal and we do threaten and attempt suicide on a regular basis. It's almost like having a chronic flu; the depression keeps us that down.

When we're manic, that can bring an entirely different set of problems. While in a manic phase we can be extremely productive, we also are impulsive, reckless, irresponsible and dangerous. We drink too much, drive too fast and too recklessly, do drugs, gamble excessively and to the point where we lose everything. We are impulsive and sometimes cannot make the correct decisions. For some of us, anger comes with both phases and we are extremely dangerous.

It's impossible for people to tell us to 'snap out of it' or 'get over it' or some such similar 'advice' because that simply does not work. Bipolar Disorder is an illness, just like cancer, just like any other illness, and it must be treated and accepted as any other illness. Mental illness is not anyone's fault, it simply is and it's difficult enough simply living with any mental illness without the added judgement and stigma society adds on.

4 Types Of Bipolar Disorder Explained - How They Affect Individuals

In psychiatry Bipolar Syndrome and Manic Depression falls under a group of mood disorders where a person experiences emotional states where they go from being clinically depressed to states where their moods are elevated, or the opposite cycle, and can be or include both these mood states. This can be a crippling condition if it is left untreated or ignored, and has been known to cause suicide.

During the late 1950's was when the term "manic depressive" first came about, although it is now commonly referred as Bipolar Disorder, which is the name for it now. This mood disorder will have been around long before it was discovered. Word such as 'ania' and 'manos' which come from Latin, used by the Romans. A Roman doctor by the name of Caelius Aurelianus came up with these etymologies (history of words). The meaning of 'Ania' is a creating great mental suffering, whereas 'manos' on the opposite scale can be translated as being calmer and more relaxed. Through centuries past those known to great minds have tried to work out how these strange mood swings have come about. Gao Lian, a Chinese encyclopaedist was one of the first to cite this illness in his 'Eight Treatises on Nurturing of Life'; the Frenchman Jules Baillarger found that the origin of these frequent cycles of depression and mania could be explained through two phased mental disorder.

The concept behind what we know today as Bipolar Disorder was considered to be a German psychiatrist - Emil Kraeplin. Long before mood stabilisers were created, he looked at untreated patients and studied their case files and was able to sort them into those that were afflicted with this illness. He conceived and is known as the father behind the term "Manic Depressive Psychosis". Under observations Emil's patients were found to undergo cycles where they had acute depression one moment then mania, with intermissions in between where the patient had no symptoms and were acting normally.

While Kraeplin discovered the concept behind the illness, it was Dr. John Cade who was credited with coming up with the treatment. He discovered that Lithium Carbonate was effective as a mood stabiliser, suitable to treat all kinds of mental illness. As a pioneer for this medication, it was the first of its kind to be used for treating all psychiatric conditions, which were often treated by electroconsulive therapy or lobotomy.

Bipolar syndrome can be said to be having mood swings, but on a much more frightening scale. These abnormal mood swings will make an individual's life very difficult or can enhance it depending on the severity of the disorder (on a scale from mild to severe) and which route it takes (a depressive or elevated mood). It can alter a person's active and energy levels, their cognitive behaviour, affect their social life and disturb their normal sleep cycle.

Whilst a person is in their early teens they will just start of with depression which comes and goes. As they reach their late teens, the Bipolar Disorder begins to surface. In some cases, a person has started with this illness as a young child, and others later on in their life. Bipolar can strike anyone at any age regardless of their ethnic background, their sex, their race or their social class.

Females diagnosed with the illness usually began firstly with episodes of depression, whilst male patients are more known to have started with manic episodes. The disorder is known to be genetic, so if you are blood related to someone with this illness there is a tendency for it to passed on.

These changes or episodes of mood swings can last from a few hours and even for months; everyone is affected differently and have dissimilar coping mechanisms. Where a patient has four or more depressive episodes or mood changes and a combination of mania in any single year, they are known to have Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder.

A patient with Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder can reach a full cycle within hours or days. In Bipolar Disorder the patients progressively move through the mood changes. They are extremely unstable and it is difficult to find the correct treatment for each affected individual. It is the females who are more prone to Rapid Cycling.

Bipolar Disorder is classified and split into four types depending on the intensity and the patterns:

1. Bipolar I Disorder - A patient will suffer one or more mixed cycle, with at least one or more long episode of depression. The severest of all the forms as the manic episodes are extreme.

2. Bipolar II Disorder - The presence of one or major depressive episode with at least one hypomanic episode. The depression is more intense than the mania ( which can last for at least four days). A person can become quite destructive although it may not be troublesome.

3. Cyclothymic Disorder - Milder than Bipolar II, there are varying episodes of depression and mania which are acute stages, but less severe. They do not occur as much as in Bipolar I or II, but could progress to either one of these at a later stage.

4. Unspecified Bipolar Disorder - This is where a person is experiencing depressive and episodes of mania which cannot be classified in those conditions mentioned about, so a person can recover fully from this.

People should not regard this type of disorder as if it was something awful like Leprosy, and wash their hands of sufferers. They should learn to gain a better understanding, that this illness can be treated and stabilised with the correct medication. There is also excellent choices of therapy available to make this disorder more manageable so that patients can lead a normal life. They are able to take control again and be confident.

Bereavement in Bipolar Disorder

Most people associate bereavement with death. So you may be asking yourself, "What does bereavement have to do with Bipolar Disorder?"

Bereavement does literally mean "to be deprived by death." When someone is bereaved, they usually experience an intense feeling of sorrow or grief. So while the terms bereavement, sorrow, and grief can (and are) sometimes used interchangeably, bereavement often refers to a state of loss, while grief refers to the reaction to the loss. See the difference?

And losses can range anywhere from the loss of your job, your status, your sense of safety, your pets or your possessions... all the way to the loss of the people closest to you. I've met people who have grieved over the death of their dog or cat just as much as other people I've met who have grieved over the death of their spouses, haven't you? And, even though it may seem strange, people really do experience the same sort of feeling when they lose their job! It may not last as long, and the feeling may not be as deep, but it is still there.

There are two ways that bereavement relates to Bipolar Disorder. The first way is for the person who has the disorder (who we call the survivor). When they are first told that they have Bipolar Disorder, they may feel bereavement at the loss of their job for one thing, since they will probably have to go on Disability. But also in other ways, since they may feel bereaved at the loss of their "sanity," loss of their "normal" way of life, loss of their "status" in society, and other things.

The survivor needs to adjust to a new way of life, and may find that they go through a period of bereavement - actually mourning the loss of their "old life," or their "old self" or, simply, the "old way of doing things." Having Bipolar Disorder will mean doing things differently, and it will mean a big adjustment for them.

Bereavement also relates to Bipolar Disorder for the person who we call the supporter, the one who supports the loved one who has Bipolar Disorder. They will not only share some of the same feelings and experiences as I talked about in the above paragraphs but, in addition, they will have their own sense of bereavement when their loved one is in a Bipolar Disorder episode. When someone is in an episode, they are not themselves - so it is very normal for the supporter to be feeling a sense of loss (bereavement) of their loved one.

The good news is that these feelings of bereavement are very normal in the world of Bipolar Disorder. You can share them in a Support Group. There will be others in the Support Group who will know what you are talking about, and know how you feel. They will also help you adjust to this "new way of life" if you are new to the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.

Just knowing that "You are NOT alone!" when you have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder might help you with your feelings of bereavement, whether you are the survivor or the supporter. Also, sharing these feelings with your psychiatrist and therapist will help.

Bipolar Disorder - A New Approach

The problem is with the ego. If you do not deal with the ego, you will never get to the real cause of bipolar problems. The ego is a compulsive thinker; about 98% of the thoughts in your head come from the ego. The only way for a thought to come from you is, if you make an effort to think, like when you plan, try to solve a problem, study or create something. You should be skeptical of the thoughts that come into your head.

There are 3 basic types of egos as each will tend to be dominated by one of three types of nervous systems, motor, sensory or autonomic. When the sensory nervous system is dominate, the ego has a lot of 'mental' energy. The sensory nervous system consist of incoming stimuli like sound, light, smells, touch and taste, that have impinged upon the senses, and travel from the external peripheral nervous system bringing information and moving inward towards the central nervous system. An ego with a strong sensory nervous system is very sensitive and can be easily overwhelmed by excessive noise, light, sound, hot spicy foods, and usually has a low threshold for pain. A cat has a sensory nervous system that clearly dominate the other two, and like a cat, the sensitive ego is going to be very curious or even nosy.

The sensitive ego can be so overwhelmed that it is constantly looking ahead to protect itself, to try to avoid being overcome with apprehension or fear. Imagining what could happen, the sensitive ego tends to worry and fret about what might occur in the future. Its mantra is 'What if?' Anxiety and fear become its problem. When the sensitive ego is in control, its thoughts will fill your head with worry, anxiety or fear about what can happen in the future.

When the motor nervous system is dominate, the ego has a lot of 'physical' energy. The energy is projected outward, moving from the central nervous system to the peripheral nervous system. They like to throw, punch, kick, run, speak, express and act. They tend to have a good memory because they are pulling data out from the central nervous system, and make good spellers. When 'memories' are pulled out from the past by the ego, it can bring feelings of regret, resentment, hurt, anger, guilt or hate. It relives the harm or hurt of an emotional nature. This can get the ego fuming with anger which can overwhelm you with ideas of vengeance. Anybody who spends a lot of time with thoughts about the past, is going to have to deal with a lot of anger.

When the autonomic nervous system (the viscera or internal organs) is dominate, it provides a lot of emotional energy. The social ego prefers to be with others than to be alone. It can party all night long as compared to the sensitive ego who could be exhausted after half an hour. The social ego tends to be good with people and good at managing people. It wants the power to influence and control others.

Herding animals like cows, pigs, sheep, elephants, and so on have a dominant autonomic nervous system. Herding animals have a lot of bickering and infighting among themselves to establish a social hierarchy. In the same manner, the social egos relationship with people and the self is judged and rated along a hierarchy. The ego ranks the self and others on this vertical, status scale, as being above or below the self, rarely on the same level, as better or worst, worthy or unworthy, etc.

When you are aware of the judgmental criticisms about others or the self, welling up in the dark abyss of the social ego's mind, do not go along with these critical attacks or be influenced by these critical judgments, especially when you understand the ego's lack of maturity and ability to discern the nuances of the complexity of life and people.

Rather than being concern with fear and anger, the social ego, more than any other type tends to be on an emotional roller coaster of ups and downs and highs and lows when dealing with life and people.

When they are on the emotional 'down' side, they can be extremely passive, apathetic, helpless, or depressed. Nothing excites or motivates them. They may not want to do anything but lay about. This may lead to emotional, physical or financial poverty, where they could easily wind up on welfare. This type is most vulnerable to becoming a hobo or a homeless beggar.

Their nonchalance insulates them from future fears and past anger issues, so they can easily get stuck in a rut and stop learning or growing. Since they think their life is just fine, they're unlikely to examine or explore new, exciting or beneficial areas of life. The social ego more than any other type of ego needs you to make more of an effort to compensate for its lethargy. Your responsibility is not to control the ego's anger or fear so much, as to endeavor to improve yourself by putting a spur under the ego's saddle to develop your knowledge base, your ability to be more loving, etc.

The emotional, excited, up swing, side of the social ego, finds them displaying a superior, haughty, conceited attitude, that I'm better than you, and be snobbish, exclusive, bossy, authoritarian, domineering or tyrannical.

The social ego's pathological problems will be emotional, namely of a manic/depressive bipolar nature. When taken to the extremes, when the ego is in control of the self close to 100% of the time, the ego can go from the grandiosity of an egomania, to the misery and despair of a deep depression.

During the hot blooded manic phase, the egos are in almost total control, making all the foolish decisions by which they are so plagued. Unfortunately the seductive euphoria created by these egos, who feel superior and godlike, are so enticing, that without understanding what is happening, they gladly surrender to these feelings of elation. And therefore surrender or go along with all the ideas coming into their head from the ego.

To overcome these problems, you need to be in charge of the self instead of the ego. You do that by learning how to censor the thoughts that come into your head and realize these thoughts are coming from the ego and not you. Learn to be skeptical of your thoughts, especially those that are critical of others, the self and the present situation.

Bipolar Stories - A Mark of Genius?

A lot of celebrities suffered of bipolar disorder, or are now thought to have had it based on their lifeworks and stories. There have been so many, in fact, that it is considered by some to be a mark of genius. That may or may not be true, but it is easy to see why the connection is made after a look at the many famous people with bipolar disorder. You can read several bipolar stories here.

Many famous writers are believed to have had bipolar disorder. Mark Twain, famous and popular American humorist, writer and lecturer, suffered significant personal and professional loss with the demise of his publishing business. While bipolar symptoms are believed to have influenced his later life, Mark Twain is an example of a positive impact of bipolar disorder had on the creativity of one individual. Unfortunately, like with many bipolar celebrities many of his crazy business ideas had never come true.

Kurt Vonnegut is believed to have suffered from bipolar disorder. After a severe depression in 1969, when he published his world known novel Slaughterhouse-Five, he swore he would never write another book. However, he went on to write another novel only four years later. William Faulkner, who invented an entire fictional place Yoknapatawha County lived with the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The are plenty of other famous novelists and poets like Edgar Allan Poe, Robert Louis Stevenson and Virginia Woolf were known to be bipolar.

The are also other creative talents like Beethoven, Van Gogh and Isaac Newton have been also thought to have had from the disorder and probably it caused their exceptional gifts. Among modern politicians Winston Churchill and Benjamin Franklin are bright examples of a successful bipolar persons in modern history.

People who have bipolar disorder have influenced our lives in countless ways. Bipolar disorder has indirectly enrolled our loves affecting the health of those who have made considerable contributions to humanity. It is known that manic episodes or hypomania being a symptomatic part of the bipolar disorder often lead to times of intense productivity. And though bipolar disorder causes real distress for those who live it, it is difficult to deny that it is also can be considered to be a type of disorder of talented and genius people.

The topic of bipolar disorders is also extensively presented in books and novels. Patty Duke an academy award winning American actress used to be bipolar patient who has had bipolar attacks of disorder through out her life. She described the disease in her book and spoke about her struggle with disorder in numerous interviews. Kay Redfield Jamison, a well known psychologist was diagnosed bipolar disorder when she was 28, published two books, including her own experiences with the disease and analysis of interaction between illness and creativity. Other famous people also wrote about the topic and the way mental disorders influenced their life.

Many modern stars and celebrities have been diagnosed this type of mental disorders by their doctors. Actresses Linda Hamilton, Margot Kidder, Carrie Fisher, and already mentioned Patty Duke are the bipolar patients, while musicians such as Kurt Cobain, Ozzy Osbourne, Axel Rose, and Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails got the same diagnosis from mental professionals as well.

In the past, bipolar people were misunderstood and most other people actually feared them that is why their life was extremely complicated and often socially isolated. They needed to go through their life living with extreme pressure both from inside and outside.

Today, the disorder is treated with therapy and medication eliminating the major symptoms of the disease. At the same time many patients feel that the medications stunt their creativity.

Bipolar disorder shall be described as a life-long, permanent condition that must be carefully managed and continuously treated. Modern medical science made a lot to develop treatments that influence disorder without depressing creativity on the whole spectrum. Nowadays there are so many very well functioning bipolar people of above average creativity, although those used to have the life threatening depression symptoms. Famous bipolar people has proven that this disorder can not prevent people from leading a very normal full of creativity and innovative ideas life.

Bipolar Disorder - Everything You Need to Know

Bi polar disorder is a brain disorder that causes sudden and unexplained changes in a person's mood, which in turn changes the individual's energy and ability to function. While virtually everyone experiences their own ups and downs every now and then, the symptoms of bi polar disorder are more severe, often damaging personal relationships and performance in school or work. Untreated, it can even lead a sufferer to suicide. Until recently, it was known as manic depression, manic-depressive disorder, and bi polar affective disorder, among other medical terms.

It is medically classified into four types, namely:

1. Bi polar I

2. Bi polar II

3. Cyclothymic Disorder

4. Bi polar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

Mental health experts use this classification to identify the symptoms, which differ among individuals. When the type has been identified, doctors can prepare a treatment program that's most suitable for the individual.

The disorder affects both men and women of all ages. In America alone, about 5.7 million people 18 years and over (2.6% of the population) suffer from it. Most sufferers exhibit their first symptoms in their early twenties, although research states that the first signs actually can occur much earlier. Adolescents, and even children, can suffer from the disorder.

The first symptoms can happen during childhood, late in life, or anywhere in between. Behavioral patterns between children and adult sufferers can differ, making the diagnosis of the disorder very difficult. Often people may suffer from it for years before it is properly recognized and treated. Once diagnosed, this long-term illness must be carefully managed throughout the rest of the individual's life, much like diabetes or heart disease.

The disorder is a recurring problem. Left untreated, sufferers have a 15% risk of death by suicide - in the developed world, it is the third leading cause of death among people between 15 and 24 years of age, and is the 6th leading cause of disability (lost years of healthy life) for individuals aged 15 to 44. Many people are aware of their situation and attempt to "self-treat" it by turning to drugs and alcohol. This can lead to substance abuse and dependence, which only serves to aggravate the disorder's effects.

To date, the exact cause of bi polar disorder is not known. Many experts, however, believe that a number of factors are involved in causing the problem, which includes a certain genetic component. It has been found that it tends to run in families - meaning if a person has bi polar disorder, then his/her relatives are at a higher risk of suffering from it as well. It has also been found that a sufferer's identical is also much more susceptible to likewise suffering the disorder. In most cases, however, the disorder lies dormant within a sufferer's system until triggered by some sort of emotional stress.

The theory it that it's caused by multiple factors, both genetic and environmental, is supported by research. Sleep, for instance, has been connected to bi polar disorder - past research had shown that patients have more difficulty sleeping and suffer from more sleep-related problems than normal individuals.

Much research about is currently ongoing, some of which attempt to uncover the reason why many sufferers turn out to be creative geniuses.

Bipolar Disorder - Mania And The Crash

One of the hardest things I have always found about being bipolar is the changing of episodes. It's always great to go from the depressive end of things to the manic side, but not so great to go from mania to depression.

On the one hand, when you're depressed and becoming manic you feel like life is finally letting up on you. Like your soul, your energy, your very being has suddenly returned to your body and you no longer have a need for food, sleep or rational thought. Being manic, at least in the start of an episode has always been a great feeling. Perhaps that's why so many diagnosed with bipolar syndrome go off medications and stop listening to our health care teams during this time, we never want the good feelings to end. But end they do. And, at least for me, that's always been a crash.

Crashing can be the worst feeling in the world. You're going from being manic, feeling like everything in life is wonderful. You've got enough energy to last forever. You don't need sleep, or to eat or to do any of those normal things that get in the way of living. Till suddenly, you crash out one night, after maybe not sleeping for a week, and wake up unable to function.

The alarm clock is ringing loudly in your ears. Screaming at you that it's time to get up and you just don't care. You bury your head under the blanket, throw the clock and just wish the world would leave you alone. You sleep for the next day and still wake up feeling like you never slept at all. The energy of just a few days ago is gone, completely sapped from your body. Every part of you aches and is tired. You want to bite the head off the next person that says good morning to you or looks at you the wrong way. You simply wish you were at home in bed, forever.

The worst part is, the crash is never the worst part of it. The crash just feels crappier than any of it because it comes so closely behind such a high wonderful time in your life, such an up moment, week, or month. The crash is just the start because the more you look back on how good you felt, the worse you feel. The more you have to cope with fixing anything you did while in a manic state, the worse you feel. Simply put, as the days go by, the worse you feel.

Mania I always miss when it says goodbye. I simply wish I could say goodbye to depression forever.

Bipolar Disorder - Not A Mental Disorder

Bipolar disorder is not a specific diagnosis. Rather, it covers a spectrum of mood disorders. It is on that basis that I state that it is not A mental disorder. Rather, it is collection of specific independent diagnoses which, grouped together, are referred to as the bipolar spectrum. This collection of mental disorders are considered to be amongst the hardest mental disorders to accurately diagnose.

There are a number of factors which make diagnosing it as being from within the bipolar spectrum difficult. If that is correctly achieved there can be further difficulty in specifying exactly which type of specific disorder is present. An accurate diagnosis makes a successful treatment far easier to achieve.

Manic depressive disorder, now more commonly known as bipolar disorder, can have a devastating effect on the life of anyone afflicted with it. It can take complete control of that person's life. This occurs as the afflicted person experiences mad manic episodes or one of those major depressive episodes. This type of bipolar is known as bipolar, type 1. Many people consider this the worst possible specific diagnosis of the disorder one can get. Not only that, it can severely affect the life of friends and loved ones of anyone so afflicted. Even when "normal" friends, loved ones and the afflicted person can be living in fear of when the next episode will occur.

As is often the case with depression it can lead to attempted suicide or even suicide. There are a number of websites on the internet which quote that one person out of two diagnosed with bipolar disorder will attempt suicide at some stage in their life. Worse still, the statistics indicate that one in twenty persons with the disorder will succeed. Statistics also indicate that if a good treatment regime is in place the risk of attempted or successful suicide is greatly reduced.

If you fear that a friend or loved one with bipolar disorder might be considering suicide seek help urgently. There are many avenues available. A good starting point could be afflicted person's health professional. This is such an important topic that I will be devoting an entire article to it in the near future.

Next down is a diagnosis of bipolar type 2. Here the manic episodes do not normally occur. Instead a hypomanic episode is experienced. These can result in:

1) Happy, excited and joyful feelings

2) Talking more, faster and often louder

3) Increased energy, more activity and an inability to sit still

4) Increased sexual drive

5) Irritability and

6) Recklessness leading to poor decision-making.

The poor decision-making often relates to sexual or money matters. They are often of a very serious nature. They can lead to relationship breakdowns. Conversely hypomania can have an extremely important part to play in the successful treatment of bipolar disorder.

The next level down in a bipolar disorder diagnosis is cyclothymic disorder. With this type the highs and the lows are not as pronounced as with bipolar types 1 and 2. This might sound good. However, it does have a distinct potential disadvantage. This type can be extremely difficult to diagnose. The mood-swings can, and do, escape the notice of even the best health professionals. This is especially the case were there is a reasonably long period of normal moods between the change of mood. The potential disadvantage here is the possibility that the cyclothymic disorder may not be picked up. This leaves the afflicted person experiencing greater than normal mood-swings without treatment.

Up to now I have discussed the spectrum of bipolar disorders in terms of the levels of their highs and lows. The spectrum also includes diagnoses which take into account the frequency of the highs and the lows. The first of these is rapid cycling bipolar disorder. This diagnosis applies where the afflicted person experiences four or more episodes within a one year period. It is not unknown for two or even more episodes to occur within a twenty-four hour period. The reducing time between highs and lows can come into effect with the passage of time if the patient is not receiving satisfactory treatment for the disorder.

Another diagnosis is mixed bipolar disorder. This diagnosis applies when the afflicted person experiences the symptoms of highs and lows at the same time. Once again the conflicting, and confusing, symptoms can, and do, lead to difficulties in diagnosing mixed bipolar disorder.

Bipolar is considered to be one of the most difficult mental groupings to diagnose accurately. The first problem is the fact that it covers the two extremes of the mental health spectrum, mania and depression. The next complication is the variation in time between different patients experiencing their personal highs and lows. Also, different patients can and do cycle in a different direction. Most cycle hypomania first, (then mania if bipolar type 1), then depression. However, a number do cycle in the reverse order

All these variations in the bipolar spectrum of mood disorder do combine to make its diagnosis extremely difficult. This difficulty can lead to further difficulty in setting up a successful treatment regime for the disorder. It is common for afflicted patients to only seek treatment for depression. This can leave the health professional totally unaware of the "high" side of the disorder. The diagnosis must then be wrong because it is based on inaccurate (incomplete) information.

A complete and accurate diagnosis makes the prescription of a successful treatment regime far easier to achieve. The key to correct diagnosis is total, and accurate, communication between patient and doctor. Can you see a pattern forming here which could lead to a successful treatment for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar Disorder Behavior - Symptoms That Signal Bipolar Disorder Behavior

While there are common symptoms that may indicate a person has bipolar disorder, each person is different. Therefore the particular symptoms they will exhibit and to the degree they have them depends on the person. This means there is no cookie cutter approach that is going to work for taking care of the disorder.

Bipolar disorder behavior can come on suddenly in both men and women. It is also known to affect young children and teenagers. The average age for bipolar disorder is approximately 25. There is plenty of research to indicate bipolar disorder behavior may be hereditary in nature.

Anyone who is affiliated with bipolar disorder often feels like they are living on a roller coaster that just keeps going up and down without any chance to get off the ride. The emotions that vary from one extreme to another are very hard for a person with bipolar to deal with on a daily basis.

These behaviors are certainly anything but normal and they can affect a person's personal relationships and career. It is very important to understand the behaviors a person with bipolar disorder exhibits aren't restricted to affecting only them. Their family suffers an emotional strain and in many cases financial stressors as well.

The two extremes of bipolar disorder behavior are mania and depression. Their behavior may fall anywhere between the two spectrums. When an individual is in a manic phase they are very unpredictable and act irresponsibly. This can cause them to be in a dangerous situation as well as put others around them at risk. Common behaviors during maniac episode include drinking excessively, taking drugs, and risky sexual behaviors.

As the person shifts into a depression mode they often start to experience psychotic episodes. They may become very paranoid because they hear voices, experience hallucinations, and they may believe they have a special power. They may feel very sad one moment and ecstatic the next.

Anyone who is trying to live a normal life and go to work each day has a hard time doing so with such extreme mood swings. Many people who suffer from bipolar disorder behavior don't realize it and they have never been diagnosed. Yet they can't seem to maintain personal relationships or hold a job.

There is no cure for bipolar disorder but with the right combination of medication and therapy it can be controlled. Many people with bipolar disorder are able to function at a normal level under the supervision of a doctor.

Bipolar Disorder - Symptoms and Treatment

These swings are often so intense that they can interfere with the ability to function causing difficulties with work performance, school and relationships. It will often run in families although there is no known cause. The first episode usually occurs in the teenage years or as a young adult. Although there are episodes of mania and depression, there is often more depressive episodes than manic.

There are four types of mood episodes within the bipolar disorder realm. These are mania, hypomania, depression and mixed emotions. With mania, there is high energy, creativity, euphoria, hyperactive behavior, excessive talking, little need for sleep, the feeling of being invincible, unrealistic expectations and ideas, acting recklessly without thinking about the consequences and, having grandiose ideas. Hypomania is similar but to a lesser degree than mania.

With depression, sufferers are irritable, unpredictable, experience mood swings, have feelings of restlessness, require more sleep, may gain weight, be fatigued, feel sad, lack energy, may develop psychotic depression where they lose contact with reality, may have feelings of hopelessness and guilt, or possibly harbor thoughts of suicide and death.

Those with mixed episodes will suffer from depression with agitation, irritability, anxiety, insomnia and racing thoughts. Their high energy and low moods increase their risk of suicide.

Other symptoms of bipolar are that those suffering from the disorder may find their judgment as well as memory, concentration, appetite, sleep, and sex drive may be affected. It has been discovered to be linked to anxiety, substance abuse, migraines and some health problems such as high blood pressure.

Diagnosing bipolar disorder early helps prevent further complications. Treatment is long-term because bipolar is a chronic condition. Treatment must continue even when the person feels better because when treatment is discontinued, episodes will likely resume.

Medication is important in the treatment of bipolar but therapy and self-help strategies play important roles also. Exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating well, keeping stress to a minimum and being surrounded by supportive people will help. These lifestyle changes may be necessary as well as keeping medication closely monitored. Treatment is more than relieving symptoms; it is an effort to control future episodes. It is important to learn relaxation techniques, i.e.: meditation and yoga can be helpful in this; joining a support group; making healthy choices, i.e.: avoiding overuse of alcohol and taking the required medication.

Over-the-counter cold medications, caffeine and thyroid medication can sometimes trigger mania. Sleep deprivation may trigger mania as well. Manic episodes are more common during the summer and depressive episodes during other seasons.

Being able to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder in yourself or someone close to you will help in getting early diagnosis and treatment to enable you to live a life that is not hampered by episodes of mania or depression.

Bipolar Disorder - The Truth

The Facts about Bipolar Disorder from the inside track.

Coming to terms with a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder can be a frightening and overwhelming time for not only those who

suffer with it, but also for their friends and family.

This post aims to provide factual information on bipolar affective disorder, treatments available, information and support for anyone affected by bipolar disorder.

Bipolar affective disorder is psychiatric disorder characterized by extreme mood swings. Despite research, there is no general consensus as to what causes bipolar affective disorder. Genetics, brain chemistry and life events are all said to contribute to onset of bipolar affective disorder.

Every one of us can experience the 'ups and downs' of everyday life, but for people suffering with bipolar affective disorder these ups and downs are more extreme and prolonged, affecting not only their mood, but their thoughts, behaviour and ability to function in life.

Who Does It Affect?

It is estimated that around one in every hundred people are diagnosed with having Bipolar Affective Disorder. It often begins in late adolescence and can often appear as depression during the teenage years, although it can start at any stage of a person's life.

Both men and women are equally affected by bipolar affective disorder and it is prevalent amongst all ethnic groups and socioeconomic groups.

Of those people diagnosed 10-15% have close relatives with a mood disorder. It is important to remember that bipolar affective disorder not only affects the lives of those who have the disorder but also can dramatically affect the lives of those people closest to them, family, friends and colleagues.

Difficulties In Treating Bipolar Affective Disorder

Mood patterns in bipolar affective disorder are not predictable, it is therefore not always possible to tell if an episode is responding to treatment or naturally coming to an end.

A person with bipolar affective disorder is not always reliable or may not always have the insight to report their symptoms correctly.

The medications used to treat bipolar affective disorder are often accompanied by unpleasant side-effects, this can increase the risk for non compliance with treatment.

Bipolar affective disorder is often misdiagnosed, this can be for a number of reasons such as a person may only seek help when suffering with an episode of depression, a person with psychotic symptoms may appear to be suffering with schizophrenia, therefore they may not receive the correct treatment which may exacerbate their symptoms.

Family and Friends

For family and friends and those caring for someone with bipolar affective disorder it can be an emotional, stressful and frustrating time.

Bipolar affective disorder can have a dramatic affect on the lives of everyone involved and it is important that family and friends are armed with the available information and support to help their loved one manage their illness, and importantly to look after their own mental health and well-being while caring for someone with bipolar affective disorder.

The excerpts included on this page are written by people affected by bipolar affective disorder and provide invaluable insight into the effects bipolar disorder can have on the family of those with bipolar affective disorder.

Caring For Yourself

One of the most important things in caring for someone with bipolar affective disorder is taking care of yourself. Carers of people with mental illnesses often feel alone and isolated, it is not easy to tell someone a partner, parent or child suffers from mental illness, a carer of someone with bipolar affective disorder is subject to stigmatisation and discrimination just as the person with bipolar disorder is.

It is important that as a carer, you consider your own needs too, such as having your own hobbies, having someone you can talk to such as a local carers group. You do not have to be alone in caring for a person with bipolar disorder, the links below will provide you with advice and information about the support that is available to you as a carer.

For further information and to see this article in its full and unedited glory please visit our website at

Bipolar4All

Bipolar Disorder - A Cyclic Illness

Bipolar disorder is a cyclic illness where people periodically exhibit manic (elevated) and depressive episodes. Categories of Bipolar disorder include; Type I, where an individual experiences full-blown mania, or Bipolar Type II, in which the "highs" do not go to the extremes. Bipolar disorder will generally manifest in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, case of bipolar disorder manifesting in late life are well documented.

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder which consists of shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Due to the complex nature of the disorder it is often difficult to diagnose. Although the exact cause of bipolar disorder is not apparent, it is known to run in families and it is believed that genetics play a significant role.

Manic Phase

Manic episodes are periods where a person affected with bipolar disorder will exhibit elevated moods, which can manifest as rapid thought processes, irritability, and/or reckless behavior. These manic episodes are frequently very hard on the person and their relationships. A person in a manic phase of bipolar disorder will have symptoms of high energy and accelerated states. Manic episodes appear in stark contrast to major depressive episodes, which are an equal and opposite component of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Depressive Episodes

A depressive episode may include feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, inability to concentrate, thoughts of death or suicide, change in appetite or weight, and fatigue or loss of energy. Depressive symptoms will frequently include physical complaints such as headaches, tiredness, lack of interest in activities, or social isolation. These depressive episodes can last six to twelve months if untreated. Depressive episodes are more common in the winter and fall, while manic episodes are more likely to occur during spring and summer.

Bipolar Treatment

People with bipolar disorder can live healthy lives if treated. Typical treatment will include medication and psychosocial therapies. There is no cure for bipolar disorder, so the main goal of treatment is to stabilize mood and control of symptoms. Treatments during an episode of mania are mostly concerned with managing symptoms and patient safety. During the bipolar depression, an antidepressant is normally the best option for treatment. Treatment is can be very effective so there is no reason to suffer this debilitating disorder.

In closing, bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness. Defined as a psychiatric condition, bipolar disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of significant disturbance in mood. Bipolar disorder is usually treated with medications and/or therapy or counseling. A person afflicted with bipolar disorder will experience dramatic mood swings. Bipolar disorder (also known as "manic depression") is often not recognized by the patient, relatives, friends, or even physicians.

Nursing Interventions in the Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

Diagnosis Bipolar Disorder: "Bipolar disorder is a severe biologic illness characterized by recurrent fluctuations in mood. Typically, patients experience alternating episodes in which mood is abnormally elevated or abnormally depressed-separated by periods in which mood is relatively normal." (Lehne, 2004, p. 321)

The following is a short synopsis according to the DSM-IV-TR, "Criteria for Bipolar Disorder" includes a distinct period of abnormality and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood for at least:

- 4 days for hypomania

- week for mania

During the period of mood disturbance, at least three or more of the following symptoms have persisted and have been present to a significant degree:

- Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity

- Decreased need for sleep

- More talkative than usual or pressure to keep talking

- Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities that have a high potential for painful consequences." (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000).

Psychodynamics of the Disease The onset of the disease usually occurs during late adolescence or in the mid twenties. However, the disease has been known to occur up into the fifth decade of life. The mood swings that accompany this disorder are of several types. They are as follows: the Pure Manic Episode, evidenced by hyperactivity, excessive enthusiasm, and flight of ideas, constant wakefulness without sleep,

Impairment in normal social functioning usually requiring hospitalization; Hypomanic Episode, evidenced by a milder form of the Pure Mania, without the loss of normal functioning that would require hospitalization; Major Depressive Episode, characterized by depressed mood consisting of symptoms such as anhedonia, avolition, alogia, affective flattening and thoughts of suicide and death; the last episode associated with Bipolar disorders is the Mixed Episode in which, "patients experience symptoms of mania and depression simultaneously. The combination of high energy and depression puts them at significant risk of suicide." (Lehne, 2004, p. 321)

Case Presentation

A Caucasian woman in her mid twenties presented signs and symptoms of self mutilation with a straight edge razor inflicted gash across her lower abdomen approximately six inches below the umbilicus. The depth of the gash just stopped at the abdominal fascia. The patient was sent from the emergency room to the psychiatric floor. Upon meeting the patient one day after her admission to E.R., she appeared dressed in pajama bottoms and a t-shirt, shuffling down the hall in her socks. She was holding her abdomen with one hand and appeared in some discomfort. Her black hair was short and disheveled. When the patient arrived at her room she sat down on her bed. She acknowledged with blunted affect that she cannot stop self mutilation, and described how she cut herself through the muscles in her abdomen almost down to the fascia. Her voice was tremulous and fast paced. This could be due to the fact that she had just been given her first dose of Clozaril. She stated that her mouth was dry and that she needed to drink some water. She then went on to say that she was getting very sleepy. The client felt comfortable with the interview.

She shared personal information in regards to being sexually abused by her bother beginning at the age of seven until the age of fifteen. Her brother was two years older than her and died in an automobile accident at the age of eighteen. She went on to say that her mother never knew or acknowledged the sexual abuse and that she could not tell her because the mother idolized the son. The client was receptive to cognitive reframing; however she was very critical of herself and stated that she felt worthless and ashamed. She appeared very tired and stated that she wanted to sleep.

Table 1

Textbook characteristics of Bipolar disorder versus client characteristics observed

Textbook Characteristics:

Pure Manic Episode

Hypomanic Episode

Major Depressive Episode-

Affective Flattening

Alogia

Avolition-apathy

Anhedonia

Mixed Episode

Rapid-Cycling Bipolar Disorder- Patients experience four or Client

Characteristics Observed:

No current symptoms

Rapid breathing, rapid speech, however due to medication a client was concurrently exhibiting lethargy

Client acknowledged sadness/ worthlessness

Facial expression flat

Thoughts of dying, hard to focus

Hair/clothes unkempt

Expressed no interest in children or own

Client's Symptoms

1. Hypomania

2. Depression

a.) Affective Flattening

b.) Alogia

c.) Avolition & Apathy

d.) Anhedonia

3. Mixed Episode

4. Rapid Cycling

(Varcarolis, 2004, p. 485)

Nursing Interventions

1. Observe the client every 15 minutes while suicidal, remove all dangerous, sharp objects from room.

2. Reinforce that she is worth while,

a.) Assist the client in evaluating the positive as well as the negative aspects of her life

b.) Encourage the appropriate expression of angry feelings.

c.) Schedule regular periods of time throughout the day for recreational/occupational therapy, encourage client to groom self, offer praise for completing grooming.

d.) Ensure client's participation in taking mood stabilizing medications. Watch client swallow medication.

3. Engage client in interpersonal therapies, cognitive-behavioral therapy,

4. Encourage client to attend group therapy, and journal episodes.

Table 2

Medical Interventions, Bipolar Disorder

Drug therapy using

Mood stabilizer

Antidepressants

Antipsychotics

Education and Psychotherapy

ECT

(Varcarolis, 2002, p. 483)

Clients Medical Interventions

Drug therapy includes

Lithium 300mg every h.s.

Not taking any Clozaril

Client is receiving psychotherapy, family counseling, group therapy while in hospital, and cognitive restructuring.

None

About Bipolar Disorder - Everything You Need to Know

Bipolar disorder is a very complex illness which scientists have not yet established its origin. There are so many theories surrounding this disease but there is only one solid explanation about its origin. This disease causes the infected person to experience elevated mood swings which are unexplainable and most of the patients do not even realize that they are overreacting. This illness has so many symptoms but they vary from one patient to another. The most common symptoms experienced by most of the people affected by the disease is unpredictable mood swings all the time.

This disease is said to be hereditary which is the only solid proof of where this disease comes from. It is said that this disease can run in the bloodline of a family for many generations but this does not mean that all the members of a family are going to develop this illness, it just means that the family members will always carry this gene within their system. If a family member lets say the father has this gene in his blood, all of his siblings will have this gene but not all of them are going to develop this disease.

This disorder can be effectively controlled but it is very hard to cure it. Scientists say that the consumption of certain drugs might accelerate the effects of this illness further. Drugs like alcohol and also other narcotic drugs might elevate the moods of an affected person to greater heights because of how these drugs react with the bodies of human beings. This illness can also be called the manic depression disorder and it mainly affects the brain of a human being. There are three chemicals found in the brain that help in all the body functions and when there is an imbalance, the person develops the illness.

This disease usually manifests itself during the teen years of an individual but it can also occur in children if they are being raised in a violent environment of they are being mistreated by their parents or guardians. This disease can remain hidden and manifest in the adult stages in a persons life. But this all depends on the kind of lifestyle that a person leads but this disorder can be controlled by using prescription drugs but one has to visit a doctor so that he/she can be analyzed and given the necessary treatment. The bipolar disorder can be controlled and all the people affected by this disease can live normal productive lives.

Bipolar Disorder - 2 Types of Episodes

Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by mood swings. The person may at times feel high or low and can last for a few hours or last for several weeks or even months. A lot of people have probably experienced it for brief periods without even knowing they have this illness. Just to give you an idea, here are some of these episodes.

The two most general are the manic and the depressive episodes. In a manic episode, the person is extremely happy, very hyperactive and experiences racing thoughts that usually lead to rapid speech.

Those who experience depressive episodes are sad, lack the energy to do anything and are unable to enjoy the pleasures of life. They feel helpless and hopeless.

In between these two extremes, there are other episodes.

There is the major depressive episode and this happens when five or more symptoms associated with bipolar disorder occur during a 2-week period. This includes being depressed, show no signs of interest in anything most of the day, significant weight loss as a result of not eating, insomnia or hypersomnia, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, diminished ability to think or concentrate and recurrent thoughts of death.

Another is the mixed episode wherein the person will feel high and low daily for at least a week. The person will probably be confined in a hospital for some time to prevent him or her from doing harm to themselves or others. It should be noted that these symptoms are not a direct result of taking drugs or any other medical condition.

Then there is the hypomanic episode. This is the exact opposite of the major depressive episode because the person will have an inflated self esteem, does not need a long time to sleep, very talkative, feel that a lot of ideas and thoughts are coming in, becomes easily distracted, wants to engage in goal oriented activities and wants to get deeply involved in pleasurable activities.

This may last for up to 4 days and four of the symptoms mentioned have to be present. Unlike the major depressive episode, those who suffer from it will still be able to socialize with others and does not require hospitalization.

Bipolar disorder is often accompanied by psychosis wherein the individual will experience hallucinations or strange delusions. At times, they may even hear voices or see people that are not there. To make matters worse, there will be a sense of paranoia and that person will think he or she is being watched or followed. Just the same, it is best to seek medical help.

There are different levels of bipolar disorder. We alluded to these in a previous chapter. Let's take a closer look. There is bipolar disorder 1, bipolar disorder 2 and cyclothymic disorder.

The difference between bipolar disorder 1 and 2 is that either the manic or the depressive is more dominant than the other. For instance, a study shows that 60 to 70% of the time, manic episodes precede or follow a depressive episode.

Those who experience bipolar disorder 1 will experience it for a week but those with bipolar disorder 2 will feel it in milder forms and a shorter duration.

Cylclothymic Disorder is not as bad as the first two mentioned. In fact, the person will just feel irritated and this could last for up to two years with single episodes that may last for up to two months. The interesting thing about this type is that it can be a precursor to a full-blown bipolar disorder or just a low-grade chronic condition.

Bipolar disorder is recurrent. So if it happens once, chances are this will happen again. On average, someone with bipolar disorder may live a normal life for up to three years with just in between episodes of mania or depression.

Bi-Polar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a very complex disease to many people, including medical doctors, and rightly so. As with every other disease in allopathic medicine, there will never be a cure for bipolar disorder. You can't solely treat this disorder from the physical, and especially with harmful, man-made pharmaceutical drugs. Plus, Western medical doctors admit that they don't know the cause of this disorder.

All disease and disorder first occur on the energy level before manifesting physically. Therefore, healing of all diseases must occur first on the energy level, the root or causative level. This is why no cure or healing of bipolar disorder will ever occur in Western medicine because Western medicine does not deal with energy or vibration, and the human body has an energy or vibratory body. Western medicine does not even deal with the cellular level of healing, which follows the energy level of healing.

In order to address a problem (disease, sickness) we must first know what it is. You can only begin the healing process when you first "know" what a thing is. Every disease has an origin in which etiology teaches us can be studied.

Though an herbalist, my approach to healing and health is wholistic and encompasses all realms of human existential makeup, including the bio-magnetic sheath (human aura) or subtle bodies realm, i.e. ethereal body, mental body, astral body, etc.

The subtle bodies pertain to the layers of the bio-magnetic sheath (human aura) that relate to the physical, emotional, mental, astral, and spiritual levels of being. All living beings have an invisible but detectable energy field that surrounds them. This is true from man (human being) down to the animals and insects. This invisible energy field is known as the "bio-magnetic sheath" (aura). It can be detected and photographed with a certain kind of photography known as "Kirlian photography."

Okay, let's delve into the understanding of bipolar disorder so that we may properly understand it in order to properly address it and help those who are afflicted with it.

Bipolar disorder is medically defined as:

"A major mental disorder characterized by episodes of mania, depression, or mixed mood. One or the other phase may be predominant at any given time, one phase may appear alternately with the other, or elements of both phases may be present simultaneously. Characteristics of the manic phase are excessive emotional displays, such as excitement, elation, euphoria, or in some cases irritability accompanied by hyperactivity, boisterousness, impaired ability to concentrate, decreased need for sleep, and seemingly unbounded energy. In extreme mania, a sense of omnipotence and delusions or grandeur may occur. In the depressive state, marked apathy and under-activity are accompanied by feelings of profound sadness, loneliness, and lowered self-esteem. Causes of the disorder are multiple and complex, often involving biologic, psychological, interpersonal, and social and cultural factors. Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 5th edition (1998), pg. 196

Bipolar disorder is a depressive disorder. It is one of two major classifications of depressive disorders: (1) unipolar depression and (2) bipolar depression.

Bipolar disorder usually starts out as depression and slowly graduates to mania; and the depression and mania can involve alternating episodes, an up and down effect. Therefore, bipolar disorder is also known as manic depression.

In my traditional fashion, let's break matters down into pabulum so we can get a thorough and pellucid understanding of bipolar disorder.

The word or prefix "bi" means: "Two; twice: bipolar 2. Occurring twice during: biweekly [Latin: bis, bi - meaning "twice."] Hence, "bi" means two.

The word "polar" means: 1. Of, measured from. Or referred to a pole 2. Of or near the North or South Pole. 3. Occupying or characterized by opposite extremes.

The word "polar" derives from the word "pole" which means: "Either or two oppositely charged terminals, as in an electric cell or battery; either of two opposing forces. [Greek: polos, meaning "axis"]

The word "disorder" means: "A lack of order; confusion; an ailment."

From the above break down of the term "bipolar disorder", we come up with "a lack of order or an ailment of two poles of opposing forces or extremes (or mental states)."

Basically, bipolar disorder deals with a fluctuation of extremes on the emotional level - depression and mania. Depression deals with a saddened state whereas mania deals with an excited or enthused state.

Depression. noun. 1. The act of depressing or condition of being depressed. 2. A sunken area; hollow 3. The condition of feeling sad or despondent. 4. Pschol. A condition marked by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, and feelings of dejection and hopelessness. American Heritage Dictionary supra, pg. 235

Depression. [Latin: "deprimere" meaning "to press down]. 3. A mood disturbance characterized by feelings of sadness, despair, and discouragement resulting from and normally proportioned to some personal loss or tragedy. 4. An abnormal emotional state characterized by exaggerated feelings of sadness, melancholy, dejection, worthlessness, emptiness, and hoplessness that are inappropriate and out of proportion to reality. The condition is neurotic when the precipitating cause is an intra-psychic conflict or a traumatic situation or event that is identifiable, even though the person is unable to explain the overreaction to it. The condition is psychotic when there is severe there is severe physical and mental functional impairment because of some unidentifiable intra-pyschic conflict; it is often accommodated by hallucinations, delusions, and confusion concerning time, place, and identity. Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 4th edition, supra pg. 354

Mania. noun. An intensively intense enthusiasm or desire; craze. 2. A mental disorder characterized by excessive physical activity and emotional excitement. 3. Violent abnormal behavior.

From the word "mania" we get the word "maniac" which means: One with an excessive enthusiasm for something. [Greek: maniakos, meaning "mad", mania, meaning "madness.].

We also get the word" manic" which means: "Of, affected by, or marked by mania."

Are you starting to really understand the depth of the rock group, The Bangles, hit song "Manic Monday" now from all of the definitions supra? I am!

Monday is the day of the week that is named in honor of the moon; hence Monday is a corruption of Moon's Day. America may profess to be a Christian nation, but if you have eyes to see, you will and can see that paganism's mark has been left on Christianity and America, which purports to be a Christian nation. Not a Christ-like nation, but a Christian nation. There's a difference!

Monday has always been associated with emotional imbalance, lunacy, mania, and sorrow ("the blues") to be exact. In fact, the Latin word for "moon" is "luna" from whence we get the words "lunacy" and "lunatic." Originally, lunacy was attributed to the moon.

In chromatherapy, the color blue deals with soothing and calming and this color blue (especially light blue) helps us to relax and to calm down. This is very true! So if you have an irate and/or anxious or hyperactive child(ren), you might want to consider painting their bedroom light blue so as to positively impact them with this color's frequency or vibration.

The color blue is the antidote for the color red, which deals with passion, fever, and fieriness. If you are upset or angry, your aura becomes a tainted and unhealthy red color because on an energetic level you are on fire (burning up), and you begin to emit the frequency of this color, and in accordance pursuant to the law of attraction, as long as your frequency is the frequency of this color (tainted or dark red), you will attract other things into your orb or aura that matches this same frequency. You will attract people, circumstances, situations, and events that will keep you angry and upset and make you more angry and upset. This is true because all energy is cyclical and that which is cyclical is bound to come back around. Karma is cyclical energy coming back around to its source. So to help yourself calm down when you are angry or upset, have a room with blue (light or sky blue) walls that you can go into for a few minutes and just stare at the walls so as to "cool" down.

Actually, staring or looking at anything blue or light/sky blue will get the job done. And if nothing blue or light/sky blue is around, simply close your eyes and visualize this color for a few minutes. It really works! The technique is greatly intensified when deep breathing is added to it. Whatever the source or cause of the anger, simply get a picture of it in your mind, imagine it disintegrating or turning into dark gray smoke and continue to blow the smoke out via your lips (perform 10-20 deep breaths); then imagine the dark gray smoke all gone from your mind.

With each breath you release the cause or source of your anger. After the last breath, you simply say: "I have released" (this anger, situation, etc.). And because you don't want that negative energy to be lingering out in the Universe so as to be available to someone else, simply transmute it into positive energy with deliberate intent and you can do this by either imaging or vocalizing (via imaging see the dark gray smoke convert into a pure white or sparkling crystalline colored smoke or via vocalization say: "the negative energy I just released is hereby converted in positive energy and made available for positive use throughout the Universe - So be it!').

Okay, getting back to our subject at hand, because blue (light/sky blue) is the color frequency of the Fifth chakra (Vissudha), visualizing or looking at the color blue will help to balance (open) this chakra - the seat of communication, which pertains to higher creativity and self-expression, thus allowing you to express yourself (and truthfully and honestly).

We do express ourselves better when we are "cool" (cool-headed), calm, and relaxed. The color blue (and light/sky blue) has this profound and healing effect on us, all of us, whether we believe in chakras and/or chromatherapy or not.

Now while the color blue deals with being cool, calm, and relaxed, the color also has an opposite polarity effect - depression or melancholy, hence a feeling of "the blues" which I'm sure African-Americans can relate to, at least better than anybody else or any other so-called race (since today, the majority of Americans regardless of race are catching and singing "the blues" today due to the state of our union [government, society] and our personal unions with self (inner and outer) and other people).

From my personal research I have discovered that depression and melancholy affect the liver organ and vice versa. The psycho-emotional aspect of the liver corresponds to the negative emotion of anger; thus anger (and madness) stores in the liver (the tissues of the liver).

It is the consumption of alcohol (spirits) that releases the evil spirits of anger and madness that are stored in the liver in the person who consumes alcohol. It is very common for drunk or inebriated people to become very upset, angry, or mad shortly after reaching this imbalanced state. This is because the alcohol serves as an instigator for the release of these stored negative emotions that the drunkard or drunk person has been carrying for some time (perhaps dating back to childhood or the teenage years).

Because alcohol is an intoxicant (a toxic substance; a pollutant of the blood and thus the body), it not only pollutes on the physical level, but also pollutes on the subtle body level. The aura becomes a dirty dark red color, in addition, little portals (gateways) open up within the aura which allows negative or dark spirits (ethereal beings) to enter the person's energy body and thus take the person under their control, mainly on the mental, emotional, and spiritual level. This is why the Ruler's imps (government) say that you are "under the influence" of alcohol when you are drunk. It's not the alcohol that influences your mind, as alcohol taints the blood, as it is a poison. It is the dark spirits (ethereal beings) that influence the mind. Liquor stores appropriately sell alcohol in the section called "Spirits."

Popping the top of a bottle of alcohol allows certain spirits (genie) to come out, like in the story of Aladdin, except the spirit (genie) here in this situation is not benevolent.

In Islam, we discover that genies (called "Jinn") are either malevolent or benevolent. The Universe is filled with dark and light beings or entities and both or on the scene right now though you can't see them as they are invisible, but nevertheless they are there on a different frequency that if you tuned in to that particular frequency right now you would see them. The evil spirits are lingering around us waiting for us to get into a fight or confrontation, to become angry and vexed, to have lower chakra sex, to drink alcohol and become drunk; and to consume drugs and fade out of our minds. They love these types of activities as it feed their appetites. It also makes it easier for them to invade our energy field because these activities lower our vibration. Lower activity lowers your aura and drinking alcohol to the point of drunkenness is sure to do such!

Growing up in the hood of South Central Los Angeles, it was all too common to witness males and females getting bent (as we say in the hood, which means "drunk') and then minutes or hours later, being involved in some drama, usually a physical fist fight.

I witnessed this with my own parents almost every Thursday night. My father got paid every Thursday from his job and my parents had a ritual of first taking the whole family out to dinner (usually at Bob's Big Boy restaurant or Norm's restaurant near Century Boulevard and Vermont Avenue), then to my paternal grandmother's house, followed by the local V.I.P. record store (now defunct) to buy the latest musical albums (The Gap Band, Teena Marie, James Brown, Rick James, etc.), and lastly, to the corner liquor store for some spirits (alcohol) and cracklin' pork skins.

My parents would be getting along fine, just talking and laughing, eating fried pork skins (pork cracklins), and listening to music. I'd be in the bed and would feel like I'm in paradise due to the good music playing and sound of laughter from my parents. I was always happiest hearing, seeing, and knowing my parents were getting along and having a good time together. Nothing else surpassed this for me. Now of course, the worst times of my childhood was when they were at each other's throat like wild dogs.

Well, it wouldn't be too long after all that Thursday night partying, eating swine flesh, and drinking alcohol that my parents would be at each other's throat, and it would always be my mother who would start the madness. She was borderline alcoholic though she didn't drink every day. She drank often, mostly on weekends (which sort of began for us on Thursday), but not everyday.

My mother used to remind me of Sue Ellen Ewing from the hit television series, "Dallas", which just happens to be my all-time favorite television show (thanks to J.R. Ewing, played by actor Larry Hagman).

Sue Ellen would be just fine when she didn't drink, but once she started to drink, she was a mess, and that was my mother.

Alcohol always released anger in my mother. She would start up by cursing up a storm (usually in response to my father saying something about one of her family members or by just saying something that obviously pissed her off).

The next thing you know she'd be throwing things (ash trays, pots and pans, drinking glasses, the telephone, etc.) and knocking pictures down from the wall. The woman literally physically tore the house apart. Even as a little boy, I could always deduce that my mother only acted like that after she drank alcohol. This impressed upon me at a young age to never drink alcohol; and after sipping on a few of the wines and spirits in my parents' bar just to experience the taste of this stuff that negatively impacted my family, I never drank alcohol - NO wine, champagne, whiskey, rum, scotch, gin, etc. I stayed away from that junk because I saw how it made people react. I saw the harm that followed from drinking this crap.

It's funny how the government is always talking about regulating people for purposes of "public safety" (or public health and order) but will not ban alcohol, cigarettes, and pharmaceutical drugs which together kill two million people per year.

And now that I know why my mother used to become upset and angry after drinking alcohol, I am able to assist and help people heal on the energy level in general, the emotional level in particular.

Some people tell me: 'Oh Djehuty, one glass of wine won't hurt!" My retort is: "I'm sure one glass of dog piss wouldn't hurt either, but over time you'd have some serious health problems because the fact of the matter is, the stuff does not belong in your body."

Drinking alcohol taxes the liver while it tries to filter alcohol from the blood stream. Again, liquor adversely affects the liver.

Now let's look at the word "melancholy." Melancholy is defined as: "Sdaness; depression. 2. Pensive reflection. 1. Gloomy; sad [Greek "melancholia"]

But if we really want to find out the true meaning of the word "melancholy", we must deduce the word on our own.

"Melan" = black (as in melanin); and "choly" = bile (as in chologogue, a substance such as an herb that stimulates the flow of bile). Hence, melancholy refers to "black bile." But wait a minute! Bile is green in color! Yes it is, so what's going on here? Now we're getting somewhere in our understanding of things.

The word "melancholy" derives from the word "melancholia" which is defined as:

Melancholia. A mental disorder marked by severe depression and apathy

[Late Latin: MELANCHOLY.] American Heritage Dictionary, 4th edition, 2001, pg. 529

Melancholia. 1. Extreme sadness; melancholy. 2. Obsolete, the major affective depressive disorder. [Greek "melas", meaning 'black', + "chole", meaning 'bile'] See also BIPOLAR DISORDER; DEPRESSION. Mosby's Medical Dictionary, 3rd edition, 1990, pg. 738

Clearly, bipolar disorder, from a medical standpoint or point of view is a form of mental retardation coupled with depression.

The Causation of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a Seventh chakra (Sahasrara) imbalance, usually excessive chakra energy.

"The Seventh (or Crown) chakra is the place of Nirvana - freedom from opposites - and is considered to be the realm where the individual soul and the Universal Soul are One. This is the realm of the total union of Shiva and Shakti, of all opposites and conflicting tendencies within oneself and between self and the cosmos." Ashoki Bedi, M.D.

From my experience with people with bipolar disorder, all of them had a deep spiritual side, but unfortunately, it was disconnected from reality. Take Larry for example. Though bi-polaric, he was very spiritual but was greatly disconnected from reality because he believed he was Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Larry is Jewish (Caucasian Jew) but considered himself a Messianic Jew (a Jew who believes in and accepts Jesus as the Messiah).

Larry was generally a happy guy, especially when things were going his way and he had hundreds of thousands of dollars in the bank and could afford his limousines and pretty women. But whenever things didn't go his way or some type of stressful situation would arise, Larry would lose it. He would freak out! He would run to the bottle and get drunk and would be a complete mess.

"The condition is neurotic when the precipitating cause is an intra-psychic conflict or a traumatic situation or event that is identifiable." Mosby's supra.

Larry's bipolar disorder was neurotic and not psychotic at all, at least from my observations when working with him.

Larry had two stages that I noticed. First, everything would be okay and he would be taking his medication (pharmaceutical drugs). Secondly, after some traumatic situation would occur, he'd fall apart and run to the bottle.

While inebriated, he would be very angry and upset, usually at government. Though drunk, his discourses were always spiritual. It's strange because in his anger and inebriated state, he spoke a lot of spiritual truths, something a lot of "normal" drunk people don't do. They may speak truth while drunk (like my mother), but rarely is it spiritual truth.

Bipolar people that I have dealt with over the years have always acknowledged the spiritual. This is how I personally know bipolar disorder is partially a Seventh chakra imbalance because the Seventh Chakra is our spiritual center, our link to the Higher Self, our divine nature.

However, characteristics of the excessive Chakra energy individual include:

Constant sense of frustration

Unrealized power

Psychotic, depressed, or manic-depressive

Frequent migraine headaches

Destructive

Sexual expression

Sometimes passionate, sometimes distant

Joy Gardner-Gordon, in "Pocket Guide to the Chakras" gives us the following example of an excessive Seventh Chakra energy individual (which actually describes Larry to a T):

"This psychotic man imagines that he is Jesus Christ. He has delusions of grandeur as he attempts to enlist his twelve disciples. He actually does have the ability to see into the future and to read minds, but his skills are sporadic and undisciplined, and he cannot distinguish between his fantasies, or his paranoias, and reality." Pg. 100

Because the Seventh Chakra influences the brain, nervous system, pineal and pituitary glands, these glands and organs must be addressed when helping the bipolar disorder individual and you CANNOT help the bipolar patient or person with these glands and organs with man-made, chemical, pharmaceutical drugs.

Drugs only exacerbate the problem. The human body is not made of drugs so drugs don't do it any good. They only toxify and pollute the body. The body identifies everything that it cannot digest as a poison and seeks to expel it from the body. Therefore, only natural things and substances from the earth can be used to help assist the bipolar person or individual, e.g. herbs, essential oils, crystals, fruits and vegetables, etc.

Larry had nearly all of the characteristics of a person with excessive Seventh Chakra energy. Larry always had a constant sense of frustration, he had tremendous unrealized power, he was most certainly depressed and manic-depressive, he got frequent migraine headaches, and he was highly sexually expressive (he was a member of private sex club).

It is very true about bipolar disorder individuals that one day they'll be very happy, on top of the world, and the next day or a few days later, they'll be greatly depressed like the world is coming to an end.

We must also look at the karmic and past-life aspect of bipolar individuals.

Bipolar individuals are borderline genius and lunatic.

In addition to working on the brain, nervous system, and endocrine system (pituitary and pineal glands), the natural practitioner must work on the liver of the bipolar individual. The liver stores anger and bipolar individuals have a tendency to become very irate and out of nowhere and at a whim. For many people with mates who are bi-polar, this behavior can be quite frightening.

The natural healer or practitioner should also take into account the karmic aspect of bi-polar. Individuals in this present life dispensation who are experiencing bi-polar disorder chose their Earth vehicles replete with so-called anomalies and so-called defects so as to undergo certain experiences for attainment of certain life experiences for purposes of soul growth; in addition to the fact of paying past life (or lives) karmic debt.

People who experience brain disorders (such as bi-polar disorder) in this life are people who in past lives may have abused their brains, used their minds and/or knowledge for purposes of harm, manipulated the minds of other people, practiced mind control experiments; pulled the levers of guillotines (which cut people's heads off as a form of capital punishment), levied capital punishment against innocent persons, etc.

There are no victims in the Universe. We create our own realities and fates via past and present life thoughts, beliefs, and actions. This is why I do not feel sorry for anyone regardless of their condition, because I have spiritual understanding, over-standing, and inner-standing and I know that they played a role in creating and manifesting the condition, whatever it may be, whether it was in this lifetime or a previous lifetime. Justice (karma) permeates our Universe and no action goes unnoticed or unreturned. Again, there are no victims, just participants.

HEALING BI-POLAR DISORDER NATURALLY

HERBS. I recommend using nervine herbs for bi-polar disorder. These herbs include Kava Kava, Passionflower, Lavender flower, Jatamansi, Chamomile, St. Jon's Wort, Valerian Root, Blue Vervain, Hops, Scullcap, Catnip, and Cinnamon to name a few. These herbs can be taken in tea form, capsule form, or liquid extract form and can be taken throughout the day.

AROMATHERAPY. There are plenty of good essential oils that are effective in the treatment and healing of bi-polar disorder and they include Neroli, Bergamot, Lavender, Jasmine, Davana, May Chang, Blood Orange, Linden, Valerian, and Melissa (True). These oils can be inhaled, burned in a diffuser, and/or added to bath water.

CRYSTALS. There are plenty of crystals that can be used in the treatment and healing of bi-polar disorder, but by far, the best stone to use for bi-polar disorder is lepidolite. Lepidolite contains lithium.

Other good stones/crystals for bi-polar include Charoite, Larimar (Dolphin Stone), Sugilite, Amethyst, and Peridot.

The above crystals and stones are ideal for the depression aspect of bi-polar (and can be placed directly on the Ajna chakra located between the eyebrows).

However, for the grounding aspect of bi-polar, I recommend the following crystals and stones: Black Tourmaline, Onyx, Jet, Obsidian, Hematite, Smoky Quartz, and Magnetite. These stones can be placed anywhere from the bottom of the feet up to the genital region, or, around the body in a grid)

Crystals can be applied directly to the Sixth chakra (Brow Chakra) while lying down (for about 15-30 minutes) or can be made into an elixir (letting the crystal sit in water for a period of 24 hours, receiving both moon and sun light) and drank (a few dropper-fuls or 1-4 ounces).

Dherbs products that are helpful in cases of bi-polar disorder include: Full Body Detox, Brain Tuner (capsules, tea), CNS (Central Nervous System) formula, Anti-Depression elixir, Bi-polar-Aid elixir; Nerves formula, Anti-depressant inhaler; Anti-Anger elixir, and Nerves tea.

Dherbs services that can also help in cases of bi-polar disorder (for purposes of healing) include Chakra Alignment/Balancing and Hemisphere Synchronization Therapy.

This article is compliments of http://www.dherbs.com and Djehuty Ma'at-Ra

For additional articles by the author, visit http://www.dherbs.com/articles