• bipolar

  • Extreme highs and lows

    One day you may be high as a kite, and then the next, you are down in the dumps.

    Bipolar disorder which is also known as manic-depressive disorder causes mood swings that range from the lows of depression to the highs of mania. When you become depressed, you may feel sad or hopeless and lose interest or pleasure in most activities. When your mood shifts in the other direction, you may feel euphoric and full of energy.

    Bipolar disorder often develops during the late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25. Some people have their first symptoms during childhood.

    Bipolar disorder is not easy to spot when it starts. The symptoms may seem like separate problems, not recognised as parts of a larger problem. Some people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life. In most cases, bipolar disorder can be controlled with medications and psychotherapy.