Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder was once called Manic Depression. Untreated bipolar disorder is associated with a roller-coaster of moods and energy – with ups and downs. There are episodes of depression symptoms (such as typical sadness, low energy, or angry, irritable depression) which alternate with manic symptoms, including:

•  Abnormally elevated, euphoric, or excessively irritable mood
• Exaggerated optimism and self-confidence
•  Decreased need for sleep without fatigue
• Grandiose delusions, inflated sense of self-importance
•  Aggressive behaviors
• Increased physical and mental activity
•  Racing speech, flight of ideas
•  Impulsiveness, poor judgment, easily distracted
•  Reckless behaviors (such as spending sprees, erratic driving, or sexual indiscretions)
•  Hallucinations in the most severe cases

Anyone with four or more symptoms on the list lasting longer than two weeks should seek medical help.

Men and women are equally affected by this illness, which is present in between one and two percent of the population. Such desirable traits as increased energy, confidence, and creativity remain with medication. Bipolar disorder was referred to as the “CEO disease” in Canada because so many corporate leaders were known to live with it. Ted Turner, Patty Duke, and Winston Churchill are but a few of the many famous people who lived with bipolar disorder. Because of the negative symptoms it is very important that a person with bipolar disorder receive proper medical treatment. There is a high risk of substance abuse and suicide.

See more information and resources here, including our bi-weekly confidential support group here at Community UMC:

Mental Health Matters - Matthews Hands

by Angela D. Vickers, JD