Signs to look for in identifying Bipolar Disorder

People around the world live stressful lives. There are good days and bad ones for every person. When you are a person living with bipolar disorder, life's ups and downs can be more like base jumping off a mountain top to hiding under the covers with all the lights off sulking unable to leave your bed. Untreated, this disorder can wreak havoc on a persons life. It is so consuming it not only effects the person suffering with this daily, but it also effects the people around you whether it is family, friends, or co-workers. No one wants to be the creator of a hostile work environment or a troubled home. Treatment is absolutely necessary to prevent self destruction. There are symptoms of this disorder that are easily identifiable.

There are various cycles a person who is suffering from bipolar disorder goes through. An untreated individual will exhibit signs of mania or hyper activity which causes frequent mood changes, erratic thinking, impulsive actions, and a boost in energy. Depending on the severity of this disorder, a person during a manic phase can be awake for numerous days because they are unable to stop the constant negative inner monologue. Rapid thoughts and the inability to silence them are brutal. All of these things mixed together can paralyze a person and begin to interfere with the ability to function as a “normal” person.

A person who is manic can switch and slip into a depressive and low state of mind. It can happen within minutes, days, months, or years. This low period is often full of depression, and a person can lack the motivation needed to simply leave their bedroom or home. During a low period, people still have a negative inner voice torturing them to no end. It slowly chips away at self esteem, self value, and the will to live. A person will likely isolate during this period. Isolation is never good for someone suffering from this disorder. Isolation breeds erratic thought and actions. When a person is alone and depressed, their can also be a sudden increase in suicidal thoughts. This is why asking for help and surrounding yourself with people who can provide the support them through the various phases of bipolar disorder.

Living a normal functioning life is possible for individuals living with this disorder is possible. With the help of medical professionals and support of family and friends, a person can learn to eventually be able to control these symptoms. The most important part is acknowledging there is a mental health issue that must be addressed reach out for help.