People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings or episodes that can take three different forms: manic, depressive, and mixed episodes.
In a manic episode, they may experience an elevated (extremely happy)mood for at least one week, often described as feeling “on top of the world.”
Others may feel very agitated and act uncooperative and aggressive, which can be frightening for themselves and others.
Generally, these episodes result in consequences that must be dealt with after the symptoms fade.
Additional symptoms may include:
• Talking too fast or too much
• Risky or impulsive behavior, like sexual promiscuityor excessive spending sprees
• Delusions (believing things that aren’t true), paranoia (feeling unusually fearfulor suspicious of others) and hallucinations (sensing things that aren’t real)
In a depressive episode, people with bipolar disorder may have overwhelming feelings of emptiness and sadness for at least two weeks. They may find themselves unable to leave the house, answer the phone, or even get out of bed.
Other symptoms include:
• A lack of energy
• A loss of interest in things
• Thoughts of dying or suicide
In a mixed episode, both manic and depressive symptoms are present at the same time.
(from www.bipolaroptions.com)
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2 comments:
Heather - when any of the manic episodes happen - or depression - or any of the effects start - are you aware that they are starting? What does a person do to get themselves back on an "even level" so to speak?
I am aware they are starting. That's part of my therapy is learning to recognize the symptoms and developing new ways of coping that are not destructive... for example, not isolating myself, calling someone and telling them, crossword puzzles :), and sometimes letting the wave pass and staying still. it's a lot of work that's often exhausting and defeating, but I just continue to remind myself that who I am is "Papa's" child and I am no longer a slave to my old self.
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