| Bipolar
Disorder We all experience changes in mood. Times
of sadness or disappointment are natural reactions to the
difficulties that occur in our lives. The loss of a loved
one, problems at work or a deteriorating relationship can
cause us to feel depressed. Similarly, a great success or
relief from a problem makes us feel happy and content.
Our moods tend to be varied and shifting, but generally we
feel as though we have some control over them. However, for
people with mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder,
that sense of control is missing and that causes distress.
Anyone who has experienced depression or a manic episode can
readily tell you the difference between those illnesses and
their own normal feelings of sadness or happiness.
Severe or prolonged depression is an illness that affects
not only a person’s emotions, but also physical health,
relationships and behaviour. At any given time, almost 3 million
Canadians have serious depression. It is about twice as common
in women.
Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, is an illness
in which there are periods of serious depression, followed
by episodes of markedly elevated or irritable moods or “highs”
(in the absence of drugs or alcohol). These mood swings are
not necessarily related to events in the person’s life.
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 1% of the population;
it typically starts in late adolescence or early adulthood
and affects men and women equally.
Depression and bipolar disorder can be treated. There is
good reason for hope. By learning more about these conditions,
you can help remove the stigma that prevents many people from
seeking help.
Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder, or manic depressive disorder,
experience alternating mood swings, from emotional highs (mania)
to lows (depression). The condition can range from mild to
severe.
It is not known what causes bipolar disorder. Research suggests
that people with the condition have a genetic disposition.
It tends to run in families. Drug abuse and stressful or traumatic
events may contribute to or trigger episodes.
Symptoms of mania include:
- Feelings of euphoria, extreme optimism, exaggerated self-esteem
- Rapid speech, racing thoughts
- Decreased need for sleep
- Extreme irritability
- Impulsive and potentially reckless behaviour
Symptoms of the depression phase are the same as in major
depression, described above.
Treatment is Available
Depression and bipolar disorder are treatable. Learning to
recognize the signs and triggers enables people to work with
their doctors, other health professionals, family and friends
to prevent recurrences from becoming severe.
The great majority of depressed people respond to treatment
and nearly all who seek treatment will get some relief from
their symptoms. Both medication and some forms of counselling
or psychotherapy have been demonstrated to be effective.
Bipolar disorder is mainly treated with medication and psychotherapy.
Medication helps to stabilize moods, while therapy helps people
detect patterns and triggers and develop strategies for managing
stress. Sometimes, electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, is used.
What Can I Do?
Many people do not seek help for depression or bipolar disorder,
sometimes because their symptoms prevent them from recognizing
the seriousness of their situation. It can also result from
the stigma that surrounds both these conditions, making people
feel like they are weak or at fault. It is important to know
that depression and bipolar disorder are treatable. Friends
and family can be supportive by learning all they can about
the condition affecting their loved one. You can learn more
from support groups and community health associations.
Helpful Links
The Mood Disorders Association of Ontario
www.mooddisorders.on.ca
Pendulum Resources: Bipolar Disorders Portal
http://www.pendulum.org/
Bipolar Sanctuary
http://www.mhsanctuary.com/bipolar/
bp Canada: the healthy living magazine for those with bipolar
http://www.bphope.ca/
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