Bipolar depression or bipolar disorder is characterized by the
presence of at least one manic episode. A manic episode is defined as
“an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood not related to
substance abuse or a medical condition that lasts for at least a week
and includes a number of disturbances in behavior and thinking.”
Symptoms of a manic episode include extreme irritability, euphoric
feelings, poor judgment, decreased sleep, obnoxious behavior, and
denial. Usually, a person who has one such episode goes on to have many
more in the future.
Statistics indicate that someone with
bipolar depression could have an average of four such episodes during a
period of ten years if they are not undergoing any kind of treatment
for this. The pattern of mood cycles, depression and manic episodes is
unique to each individual. Bipolar depression could begin in
adolescence or early adulthood and continues throughout life. It is
also easily mistaken for a psychological problem and hence, may go
untreated for a long time. More than two million Americans have bipolar
depression which can be disruptive to their lives. The illness can take
its toll on the patient and his family members including spouse,
children, and parents amongst others.
Behavioral problems are
also something that the individual’s family will have to deal with.
Studies indicate a strong possibility that bipolar disorder can be
inherited. Once the person realizes that he or she has a problem, the
way to recovery is half covered. Someone who is suffering from severe
bipolar depression may have to be committed to a hospital to keep them
from harming themselves and others. It may take time to discover the
ideal treatment for someone with bipolar depression, but the condition
is treatable. A psychologist and a physician are both needed for the
successful treatment of the patient.