|
Bipolar Depression The
distinguishing characteristic of Bipolar Disorder, as compared to
other mood disorders, is the presence of at least one manic episode.
Additionally, it is presumed to be a chronic condition because the
vast majority of individuals who have one manic episode have
additional episodes in the future. The statistics suggest that four
episodes in ten years is an average, without preventative treatment.
Every individual with bipolar disorder has a unique pattern of mood
cycles, combining depression and manic episodes, that is specific to
that individual, but predictable once the pattern is identified.
Research studies suggest a strong genetic influence in bipolar
disorder.
Bipolar
disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and
continues throughout life. It is often not recognized as a
psychological problem, because it is episodic. Effective
treatment is available for bipolar disorder. Without treatment,
marital break-ups, job loss, alcohol and drug abuse, and suicide may
result from the chronic, episodic mood swings. The most significant
treatment issue is non-compliance with treatment. Most individuals
with bipolar disorder do not perceive their manic episodes as needing
treatment, and they resist entering treatment. In fact, most people
report feeling very good during the beginning of a manic episode, and
don't want it to stop. This is a serious judgment problem. As the
manic episode progresses, concentration becomes difficult, thinking
becomes more grandiose, and problems develop. More than 2 million
Americans have manic-depressive illness. It is extremely distressing
and disruptive to their lives.
Like any
serious illness, bipolar disorder also creates problems for spouses,
family members, friends, and employers.
Family members of people with
bipolar disorder often have to cope with serious behavioral problems
(such as wild spending sprees) and the lasting consequences of these
behaviors.
Bipolar disorder tends to run in
families, and there is strong evidence that it is inherited.
However, despite ongoing research efforts, a specific genetic defect
associated with the disease has not yet been identified.
Bipolar illness has been
diagnosed in children under age 12, although it is not common in
this age bracket. The symptoms can be confused with
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, so careful diagnosis is
necessary.
|
