About bipolar disorder or manic depression
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Affective disorders include both
depression and manic depression.
Manic depression is often characterized by cycles of manic and depressive behavior.
Common symptoms of the manic phase of bipolar disorder or manic-depression
- Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence
- Grandiose ideas and delusions, inflated sense of self-importance
- Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue
- Excessive irritability and/or aggressive behavior
- Increased physical and mental activity
- Racing speech, flight of ideas, impulsiveness
- Poor judgement or reckless behavior such as spending sprees, rash business decisions, or sexual promiscuity.
Common symptoms of the depressive phase of bipolar disorder or manic-depression
- Prolonged feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness
- Sense of impending doom or disaster
- Reduced enjoyment and pleasure
- Loss of energy and motivation
- Low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Indecisiveness, reduced concentration, slow thinking
- Significant changes in appetite and/or sleep patterns
- Social withdrawal
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
Key Facts About Bipolar Disorder
- According to the National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association, manic-depression or bipolar disorder affects 2.5 million adult Americans sometime during their lifetime.
- While people can be afflicted anytime during their lifetime, a typical age of onset for bipolar disorder is in the range of 18 to 22 years.
- Bipolar disorder is one of the most treatable mental illnesses, with proven treatment strategies available for people read more
