Bipolar Disorder in Adults

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a fairly common disorder throughout the world. Unfortunately, it is hard to diagnose and extremely hard on those who suffer from it. It can cause instances of grandeur as well as times where death seems the only way out of a miserable life. Mood swings come and go without warning, sometimes frequent and sometimes with gaps as long as a couple of months.

Unfortunately, many have their lost their lives to the disorder. The best medication is precaution, awareness and knowledge. Because these three things lack in most societies, most patients are wrongly accused of intentionally causing trouble, trying to seek attention and thus are pushed further into their own tormented disorder.

This paper will begin with a general introduction to the disorder. It will then distinguish between the two types; bipolar I and bipolar II. It will then delve into the signs and symptoms that are most commonly apparent in the states of mania and in the state of depression. Afterwards, the paper will look at mood swings and the diagnosis of the disorder. There will be a discussion of the suicide factor in the disorder, the age group of patients, possible causes and commonly used medications and their types. The paper will conclude with treatments and side effects to medications.

Table of Contents

Introduction4

Types I and II5

Signs and symptoms6

Mania6

Depression7

Mood Swings8

Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder9

Depression10

Hypomania10

Mania10

Suicide11

Patients based on Age12

Possible Causes13

Stabilizing Patients15

Medications16

Treatment17

Side Effects of Medication18

Conclusion19

References20

Bipolar Disorder in Adults

Introduction

Bipolar disorder, commonly referred to as manic depression, is a mental disorder that is identified by mood swings, energy and the ability to function as a healthy individual would function. As compared to normal mood swings, normal ups and downs in temperament based on social interactions and stress, symptoms of bipolar disorder can lead to serious and often unsettling consequences. The symptoms often destroy relationships. They also affect the quality/efficiency of work in professional and educational environments, and in extreme circumstances the symptoms can lead to suicide. Fortunately, patients suffering from bipolar disorder are gradually becoming able to lead full and productive lives. Many noted celebrities, including Catherine Zeta Jones and Robbie Williams also suffer from the disorder, yet have earned great fame.

Many individuals who suffer from the disorder remain undiagnosed, and thus are often criticized for their behavior and confrontations. They are commonly branded as troublemakers. Bipolar disorder has a tendency to appear in late early adulthood or adolescence. It should be noted that in some cases the first symptoms may appear as early as childhood (Brotman et al, 2007). Other, more distinguishable symptoms appear and are detected at much later stages of life. As previously stated, bipolar disorder cannot be diagnosed very easily, and people suffer for years before they are diagnosed. At times, proper treatment begins too late and can even result in suicide or fatal accidents. Constant monitoring is required for patients suffering from the chronic disease and precaution should be taken no matter what the individual claims to be feeling.

Patients have often been noted as saying that manic ...