What Is Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a manic depressive illness that occurs due to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. As a result, the sufferer will have unusual shifts in energy, mood and ability to function.

This is very different from what normal people go through, as the symptoms of anyone suffering from this type of disorder are very severe. People who are unable to manage it will have difficulty in maintaining relationships, finding a job and excelling in school.

Studies show that there are about 5.7 million Americans or 2.6% of the total population at different age levels that have bipolar disorder. This may begin during childhood while some may develop it later on in life.

This may happen to adults who are either alcohol or drug dependent but this has occurred frequently in people with seasonal depression and certain anxiety disorders like PTSD or posttraumatic stress disorder.

According to the World Health Organization, bipolar disorder is considered to be the 6th most disabling illness.

The chemical imbalance mentioned earlier is caused by a complex set of factors. Some say genetics plays a role because 60% of patients have had someone in the family with this disorder. Until now, scientists have only been able to identify 4 genes that are associated with this disorder. More studies need to be done to determine if the environment also has a role.

So how can you tell if a person is suffering from bipolar disorder? This can easily be determined by looking at the person's behavior. Some of these symptoms include increased activity or restlessness, extreme irritability; the person is easily distracted, uses poor judgment, engages in spending sprees, denies that there is nothing wrong, increased sexual drive, little sleep needed and signs of aggressive behavior.

If you know someone who experiences this from time to time, the chances are that he or she has manic episodes. But to be sure, the person must at least show three or more of these symptoms during most of the day constantly for a week or longer.

In terms of gender, bipolar disorder is equal between men and women but females tend to switch moods more quickly. In fact, women will have more periods of depression than men.

Bipolar disorder is not recognized as an illness, which is why a lot of patients are often misdiagnosed. The doctor may think that the patient is suffering from either schizophrenia or some other severe mental illness. Similar to diabetes and heart disease, the good news is that it can be treated.