Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

by Colin Jones

Bipolar Disorder or Manic Depression, is considered one of the most severe types of depression that people most frequently suffer from. One of symptoms of bipolar disorder is sudden and extreme mood swings. Manic Mepression is so-named because manic refers to 'mania', which means the 'happy times' or 'ups' while depression refers to the 'downs'. The symptoms of bipolar disorder are also reflected in the name 'Bi-polar', which also refers to both ends of the spectrum of an emotional mood swing

Many people experience erratic changes in their moods and, sometimes, these so-called mood swings are not just because of PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) or stress. Doctors have diagnosed mood swings as one of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder, when these mood swings become severe.

For example, if someone gets annoyed because a cafe does not have his favourite biscuits, it may just a sign of a spoilt brat, but when getting annoyed also means that that person will scream and swear at the waitress, it could be the onset of bipolar disorder.

The 'manic' periods or 'ups' in Manic Depression or bipolar disorder are described as the times when a person suffering from bipolar disorder experiences extremely high periods, consisting of heightened energy, sudden outbursts of euphoric mood, extreme irritability, together with racing thoughts and aggressive behaviour.

According to therapists, someone suffering from symptoms of bipolar disorder may have these so-called manic 'periods' not only for a day or so, they can actually go on for as long as a week or even longer than that.

During these so-called 'low' or 'down' periods, people who are suffering from bipolar disorder may experience very similar symptoms to those who are suffering from 'normal' depression. People who are suffering from bipolar disorder will experience periods of a depressed frame of mind - including abject feelings of worthlessness and being unloved.

There are various other symptoms of bipolar disorder too: irrational guilt, severe sadness, anxiety attacks, feelings of not belonging, severe gloom and an obvious loss of pleasure and happiness. According to therapists, someone who is depressed continuously for more than a week can officially be diagnosed as someone who is suffering from the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Although it is one of the most common and severe kinds of depressive disorder, bipolar disorder can actually be treated. According to doctors, there's no reason to worry too much about having it, just follow the procedures that the therapist gives you and take the prescribed medication in the proper dosage in order to help you (or your friend or love one) overcome the symptoms of bipolar disorder before it becomes too late.

Also, individuals who suffer from the symptoms of bipolar  disorder should consult their therapists on a regular basis, in order to be able to release their pent-up emotions to someone who is able understand just what it is they are going through a lot better than an untrained person.

Although positive results for the treatment of the symptoms of bipolar disorder can be obtained from natural remedies, a much more lasting relief from the symptoms of bipolar disorder can best be acquired through seeing a cognitive behaviour therapist.

Contrary to some beliefs, when it comes to psychiatric treatments, psychiatrists, preferably those specializing in cognitive behaviour therapy, are still the best ones to visit for a lasting cure for the symptoms of bipolar disorder.