Bipolar Disorder, which used to be called manic-depressive illness, is characterized by recurring mood swings of mania and depression. The frequency and length of episodes, age of onset and severity of moods vary. The constant fact is that bipolar disorder is a severe, complex and lifelong disease that often runs in families.
Instructions
1. Before you can get tested for Bipolar Disorder you must first recognize the symptoms.
For manic episodes, you may experience an elevated happy mood or an irritable angry mood. You may have an increased energy and activity level, including talking and risk-taking. You may also exhibit impulsive activity and decreased sleep.
For depressive episodes, you may have a loss of energy and decreased activity. Inability to concentrate or make decisions can factor in. Feeling guilty and unhappy is common. You may have less interest in life. Changes in sleep and appetite are the norm.
2. Start to collect data as soon as you recognize the symptoms. Keep track of when each manic and depressive episode begins, how long each episode lasts, and any biological or environmental events that may have triggered the mood swing. Reconstruct any past occurrences of mood swings. Collect a family history. Perhaps a relative has suffered from depression, mania or another mental illness.
3. Locate mental health services. Go to either a clinic or an individual psychologist or psychiatrist. If you can, get a referral from your family physician, a nurse, social worker, or religious counselor. Large universities that have medical centers are another good place to look for physicians or clinics. You'll find the links in our Resources section for directories of help near you.
4. Make and keep an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist. Patiently cooperate, honestly answer assessment questions, and provide as much information as possible.
5. Seek help if in crisis. If your behavior is out of control--or if you're feeling suicidal--immediately find a friend, family member or mental health professional. You may also choose to go to an emergency room.
Tags: mental health, mood swings, recognize symptoms, that have