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.