Am I Bipolar? - Figuring It Out

Are you wondering, 'am I bipolar'?

The first step in seeking treatment for bipolar disorder lies in recognizing that one has the disorder. Also called manic depression, bipolar disorder causes an individual to experience dramatic, serious and extreme shifts in mood, behavior, thinking or energy.

Bipolar disorder affects energy levels, sleep patterns, sex drive, self-esteem, judgment, memory, concentration, and appetite. Additionally, bipolar disorder has been linked to an increased incidence of anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, migraines, and high blood pressure.

Am I Bipolar?

Am I bipolar? The highs of mania can plummet to the lows of depression, and the cycles of feelings last for days, weeks, or months. These periods of highs and lows can be distinguished from the normal ups and downs that most people experience at one time or another due to the intensity of the episodes. Often, the mood swings can interfere with daily functioning and social interactions.

For example, during a manic episode, an individual may have the irresistible impulse to leave their job, spend exorbitant amounts of money, or will demonstrate intense energy even after only a few hours sleep. They run about madly accomplishing tasks and often not weighing consequences.

Yet, within a few days or weeks, a depressive episode will virtually incapacitate them, making it difficult for them to perform even normal routines like getting out of bed. They will be in the throes of a dark depressed state, which often lasts a good deal longer than the manic periods.

For some, the manic periods appear mild, and so the diagnosis of bipolar disorder does not come until the condition progresses in severity.

Having read about the signs and symptoms, have you figured out, 'am I bipolar'?

Causes

The causes of bipolar disorder have not yet been uncovered; however, often, the condition passes from one generation to another. The first symptoms often occur in adolescence and early adulthood, though they can at first be subtle and thus overlooked. With proper treatment, however, most individuals with bipolar disorder can lead productive, creative, and fulfilling lives.

Types of Mood Episodes

Am I bipolar?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary widely among individuals, and include four types of mood episodes - Mania, Hypomania, Depression, and Mixed episode. These are described below, which should help you figure out, 'am I bipolar?'

Mania