Bipolar Disorder Day by Day Living

　
Bipolar problems will vary from person to person and will also depend on the type of episode, whether it is a manic episode or a depressive one. One of the main causes of bipolar problems is the duration of the mood of the person suffering from the disorder. A manic episode or a depressive one can last anywhere from several hours to several months. Rapid cyclers can go from days of mania to days of depression. The length of time that a episode has can determine the severity. They can be severe or serious enough to affect a person’s total routine. For instance, a depressive episode can make a bipolar incapable of getting out of bed in the morning and going to work. The inability to function day to day is very likely to lead to a person having to go on disability.
Another of a bipolar's problems is the impulsivity. During a manic episode, the person feels like they can do anything. It is common for a bipolar to take actions in this state that they will later regret. Bipolars have been known to run up huge bills or quit jobs during a manic episode. Sometimes people are heightened sexually during an episode and may end up with a sexually transmitted diseases.
Sometimes during a manic episode peope can be extremely productive or creative. They have a lot of pent up energy and the belief that all problems are not problems at all and can be easily solves. No mountain is too big to move.
Coping with a bipolar disorder is not an easy thing to do. Since it is classified as a mental illness there is a stigma that goes with it. Many people do not want to deal with it. This serious disorder seems to be becoming more frequently found in the general population and a large amount of research is going on to help Bipolars live a normal and productive life.
If you have been diagnosed with a bipolar disorder or feel you have the signs, there are help. You must think about not only yourself but family and friends in your life. Bipolar illnesses can cause problems with not only those close to you, but at your place of employment as well.
Make sure you have not only a good doctor, but one you are comfortable with. You need a professional you can talk with like your best friend so they will be able to properly treat you. There are a number of different bipolar disorders and each one needs treated differently.
Once you have been professionally diagnosed as bipolar you may need to let your closest family members and friends know. If they can understand what the problem is you will have a support system started.
The most impotant thing you can do when diagnosed with bipolar disorder is to become as knowledgeable about your illness. When you understand the signs and symptoms you can take control and to stop a mood swing before it gets out of hand.
One unavoidable problem is to have to be prescribed a regiment of medication. This should not be seen as a weaknees or dependecy. There are many illnesses both mental and physical that require daily medication.
The most important thing a bipolar needs to do is stay on their prescribed medication and consider it as a part of their life. Almost all of the problems that arise with bipolars is because they chose to stop taking their medication because they felt they no longer needed it.
Living with a mental illness is not easy but it can be accomplished. With the medication and knowledge of the disorder available today, there is no reason for anyone to live as an untreated bipolar and suffer the moodswings that go with it.
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
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Living Bipolar Day by Day

People with bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, are especially at risk for suicide. Nobody wants to talk about suicide. The stigma, shame, and suffering are, for most, unspoken. And doctors say, for bipolars the threat of suicide is very real.
People with bipolar II disorder have a particularly high risk for suicide, particularly when they are in the depressed phase of their illness. Individuals with mixed-manic episodes , states in which they have intense signs of both depression and mania simultaneously, may have an even higher chance of becoming suicidal.
　
The suicidial incidents are greater when people talk about feeling suicidal or wanting to die, discussing death or writing about itFeeling hopeless, trapped — that nothing will ever change or get better. Are feeling helpless — that nothing one does makes any difference, feel like a burden to family and friends, that others would be better off without me. Lack a of purpose in one's life. Start withdrawing from friends, family, activities make previous suicide attempts. Experience recent loss of a friend or acquaintance through suicide. Have family members who have committed suicide. Begin putting affairs in order, organizing finances or giving away possessions to prepare for one's death. Engage in risky behavior, putting oneself in harm's way or in situations where there is a danger of being injured or killed, are incarcerated
　
Someone who is talking about suicide should always be taken seriously and receive immediate attention, from a mental health professiona
If you are feeling suicidal: Tell someone you can trust a family member, friend, teacher, minister, or rabbi. Call a doctor, emergency room, 911, or a suicide-prevention hotline. Stay with other people don't put yourself in the position of being alone. Stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Suicidal feelings pass if they are not acted on, most of the time, for most of the people.
　
People with bipolar disorder who have experienced mania or hypomania (less severe than mania) describe periods of emotional intensity, creativity, energy, and productivity as an advantage to being bipolar. This idea to bipolar symptoms can be so strong that bipolar patients may actually stop taking their medications because they are missing the high .
While a some of bipolar patients stay in the state of hypomania without progressing to the more dangerous mania, it is not so for the majority of people with bipolar disorder.
　
Symptoms of depression are far more common and frequent among people with bipolar disorder than the highs of mania.
An example is the artist Vincent van Gogh which shows the course that mania can take. Although van Gogh was never diagnosed with bipolar disorder, certain patterns of depression followed by high-energy productivity and creativity imply bipolar disorder. While his moods improved and moved toward mania, he was incredibly productive, producing works of art that are admired and beloved to this day. But as the days passed, he was unable to paint at all. Meanwhile, his personal life bore many of the signs of bipolar disorder, including suicide at 37.
　
The advantages of being Bipolar: Productivity. People with bipolar disorder sleep less as they become manic and have more energy. As a result, they are often more productive than their peers. The lack of sleep and high-energy work can eventually lead to burnout and may contribute to symptoms of psychosis, such as paranoia and hallucinations. Confidence. Feeling more self-confident is one of the benefits described by people with bipolar disorder. Unfortunately, as mania increases, this self-confidence can become unrealistic delusions about power and success, leading to poor life choices and impulsiveness. Charm. Along with greater energy and self-confidence, people with bipolar disorder may be more outgoing and charming as their mood improves. This can draw people to them, making them the life of the party. But ,when fully manic there is increasing irritability, impulsiveness, irrational behavior or speech, and risk-taking also can drive people away. Euphoria. Intense joy and pleasure in life, including a heightened awareness of details, may also be experienced by bipolar patients as they approach mania. This perception of the world in bright and little things are more clearr . Insight. Many people with bipolar disorder experience a feeling of greater intellectual ability and insight as they approach mania.
There are some negative aspects to hypomania in addition to the positives . They include irritability, carelessness, poor impulse control, and increased chance for substance abuse.
The so-called advantages of mania are misleading, even to the the patient with bipolar disorder. Patients often say thar these positive experiences are the reasons for going off of medications that keep their mood stable. These advantages are only temporary and can quickly progress to mania, disruptive lifestyle choices, and even psychosis.
　
Lack of concentration one of the mostcommon symptom of bipolar disorder. Bipolars are easily distracted or feel lost and confused whether at home, at work, in school. Being unable to concentrate can be a problem because it makes it hard to perform tasks such as grocery shopping or preparing meals, or to enjoy activities such as simply watching television or reading. The symptom also can put the person with bipolar disorder at risk for injury accidents happen when people arent attentive.

People with moodswings go from episodes of very high energy to extreme lows of depression. When depressed, people can not concentrate as well. They may have trouble thinking and making decisions. Anything can become a distraction when they are down.
The only answer for controlling moodswings of bipolars is to take medication. But these medications can contribute to the attention problems. Certain medications have been shown to make it more difficult to concentrate and to learn. Their doctor may be able to adjust the medications to resolve the problem.But for some bipolars it is a lifelong problem relieved with many medications . Lack of sleep and stress can affect concentration.
Loss the ability to concentrate when we are extremely tired, and people with bipolar disorder are known to have trouble sleeping, especially if they are in a depressed state. If you want to improve your concentration, try to get enough sleep. Try to set a sleep regime taking medication at a certain time day and night, you should go to bed and wake up the same time every night.
Stress also can cause a lack of concentration, and people with bipolar disorder are under a lot of stress from the drastic changes in their moods when medications do not fully help. Bipolars can try to control stress and get organized by manage your time. Don’t try to do too much. Say no if you can’t do it.Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Eat only low-fat meats and poultry. Get regular exercise, which can have both mental and physical health benefits. Avoid caffeine. Learn relaxation techniques. These include breathing exercises, yoga, and massage. Remember to balance periods of activity with periods of relaxation. Keep a daily planner. It will help you to remember appointments. Spend time talking and listening to others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Choose a support group . Avoid drugs and alcohol. Taking drugs and alcohol may lessen the effectiveness of your prescribed medications and lead to potentially dangerous side effects. A daily schedule can add structure to your life, and structure can help you cope with stress.
　
　

Living Bipolar

Is there a connection between bipolar disorder and time? Changing to and from daylight
saving time affects everyone but with bipolar disorder the change is drastic. It is
not unusual for time changes to trigger an episode in some.
Our waking sleeping cycle is thrown off and we can have an episode.
Our brain is confused until it gets back in sync.


Our bodies do not always adjust to environmental changes. For optimum sleeping habits
it responds best to consistent daily amounts of light and darkness. Sleeping at night while it is dark
and doing most activity when it is light is the ideal. Any disruption to the normal sleeping pattern is likely to result in adverse mood. Changes even in normal individuals are difficult but with bipolar getting too much light may trigger a manic episode while too little may trigger an episode of depression.


Seasonal environmental changes such as rain snow storms can cause havoc with bipolar disorder. This would explain why bipolar and time changes are not a good combination.
Summer sun is a joy for everyone but you must look out for excess for living bipolar.






Stress is our response to challenges that upset our rhythm. Everyone
has delt with stress and obstacles during life that threaten to mental and
emotional balance.
.
These challanges can be from what we are doing in our lives and what we expect we
should do or what others expect we should do. When we cant actually face the
challenge, or think that we can't brings on stress. The way we will encounter stress
and the ways we deal with it can trigger an episode.

Stress sets off a chain of chemical changes in the brain which in bipolars has the
potentially trigger both depression and mania
The ideal is to to strive for a stress free existence.


Bipolar disorder is linked with stress inducing behavior like the anxiety
and irritability when depressed or the excesses, risks and reckless
behavior during mania.


With bipolar symptoms, being aware of the danger signs can allieviate the problem.
If you know the problem and can look at it with the importance of it the effect then it is a lot
easier to prevent the occurrence/

You have to organize your life wherever possible to
ensure your psychological and physiological needs are met.



One of a manic or hypomanic episode with bipolar is excessive money
spending, compulsive shopping and impulsive purchases. The majority of
people have at some stage indulged in these activities. What is considered overspending
might seem perfectly normal to some.
Not all reckless spenders are bipolar but for anyone with bipolar disease it can
become a problem with serious consequences

.
During bipolar episodes there is often a lack of ability to see that your actions
are out of control. This might in part be due to the feelings of grandiosity
inflated, unrealistic ideas of capabilities. Also the diminished ability to
think and reason clearly but knowing why is little help when the debts pile up


For the bipolar individual and those supporting them its best to accept the
potential for unreasonable financial dealings exists and to put in place
a curb on money spending. Limiting access to credit cards is paramount. Any cash
allowance should be spread over the period rather than provided all at once.


Often it's the compulsive need to spend, regardless of the desire or need for the item, that
the act satisfies.
The opportunity to spend is always present and it is a good idea to try and limit the money available
to spend. Money management is a priority with bipolars. Taking precautions not accepting
credit cards keeping small amounts of cash available is another way of living bipolar.

Bipolar disorder usually lasts a lifetime. Episodes of mania and depression typically come back over time. Between episodes, many people with bipolar disorder are free of symptoms, but some people may have lingering symptoms.

Some people may be diagnosed with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. This is when a person has four or more episodes of major depression, mania, hypomania, or mixed symptoms within a year

Some people experience more than one episode in a week, or even within one day. Rapid cycling seems to be more common in people who have severe bipolar disorder and may be more common in people who have their first episode at a younger age. One study found that people with rapid cycling had their first episode during mid to late teen years, than people without rapid cycling bipolar disorder. Rapid cycling affects more women than men.

Over time, a person may suffer more frequent and more severe episodes than when the illness first appeared. Also, delays in getting the correct diagnosis and treatment make a person more likely to experience personal, social, and work-related problems.6
Proper diagnosis and treatment helps people with bipolar disorder lead healthy and productive lives. In most cases, treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.

Substance abuse is very common among people with bipolar disorder, Some people with bipolar disorder may try to treat their symptoms with alcohol or drugs. However, substance abuse may trigger or prolong bipolar symptoms.

Anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and social phobia, also co-occur often among people with bipolar disorder.Bipolar disorder also co-esist with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which has some symptoms that overlap with bipolar disorder, such as restlessness and being easily distracted.
People with bipolar disorder are also at higher risk for thyroid disease, migraine headaches, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and other physical illnesses. These illnesses may cause symptoms of mania or depression. They may also result from treatment for bipolar disorder.

Researchers are learning about the possible causes of bipolar disorder. Most agree that there is no single cause.
Bipolar disorder runs in families, researchers are looking for genes that may increase a person's chance of developing the illness. Genes help control how the body and brain work and grow. Genes are contained inside a person's cells that are passed down from parents to children.

Children with a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the illness, compared with children who do not have a family history of bipolar disorder.
Genetic research on bipolar disorder type of research is now much quicker and more far-reaching than in the past. So far, researchers using a database found that most people with bipolar disorder had:
Missed work because of their illness. Other illnesses at the same time, especially alcohol and/or substance abuse and panic disorders Been treated or hospitalized for bipolar disorder.
There are certain traits that appeared to run in families, including: History of psychiatric hospitalization. Co-existing obsessive-compulsive. Age at first manic episode andNumber and frequency of manic episodes.
　
But genes are not the only risk factor for bipolar disorder. Studies of identical twins have shown that the twin of a person with bipolar illness does not always develop the disorder. This is important because identical twins share all of the same genes.This shows there may be factors other than genes as a cause.. It is likely that there are many different genes and a person's environment are a factor.
　
The Doctors and researchers greatest concern is that the symptoms will impact daily life, such as family, relationships, or job.
Patients have said they have canceled social engagements or rearranged their appointments because of bipolar depression.
Also people with bipolar disorder comment that bipolar depressive symptoms affected their ability to do housework and errands.
Therapists and Casemanagers question patients to better understand the impact of bipolar depression on people’s lives.

People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings from lows, called bipolar depression, to highs, called bipolar mania.
Many people with bipolar disorder report spending more time in the depressive phase which includes feelings of sadness and emptiness, depressed moods and inability to concentrate than in the manic Many people with bipolar disorder are feeling the effects of bipolar depression in their day-to-day lives.Bipolar disorder is a manageable disease, for most, but there are a number of factors that can get in the way of successful recovery.

Developing an appropriate treatment plan to successfully manage bipolar disorder. Patients need to feel comfortable with sharing their symptoms with their doctor. Describe how you’re feeling to the best of your ability using your own words, write down questions and concerns you have beforehand so you don’t forget them.Feel free to share anything and everything with your doctor, even if it feels personal or unimportant.

With the proper treatment medications and the right doctor bipolars can live a qualitive productive life

Creativity and Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a disorder
that affects a realitive small part of the population. Unlike unipolar
disorder, also known as major affective disorder or depression, bipolar
disorder is characterized by vacillating between periods of elation
and depression.
Bipolar disorder is not an illness that remedies itself over time; people affected with
manic depression are manic-depressives for their entire lives. Researchers have been trying to
diagnose the onset of bipolar disorder in a patient faster and to more
effectively treat it. Studies have been performed on
this disease, the occurrence between extreme creativity and manic
depression have been uncovered.
　
Patients with bipolar disorder swing between major depressive, mixed,
hypomanic, and manic episodes. A major depressive episode is when
the patient has either a depressed mood or a loss of interest/pleasure in
normal activities for a period of at least two weeks. The patient
should have a depressed mood for most of the day, nearly every
day; decreased interest or pleasure in activities; weight loss or gain
di insomnia or increased sleep
psychomotor agitation or retardation; fatigue or loss of
energy; diminished ability to think or concentrate; feelings of
worthlessness; recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation or
attempt.

With the major depressive episodes, patients with manic depression also feel
periods of hypomania. A hypomanic episode must be a period of at least
four days, during which the affected person feels elevated or irritated
inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, more
talkative than usual, flight of ideas or racing thoughts, distractibility,
psychomotor agitation or an increase in goal-directed activity, excessive
involvement in pleasurable activities that may have negative consequences
and marked poor judgement. This change in mood is observable by others and medications,
substance abuse, or another medical condition does not cause the symptoms.

The next progression from hypomania is mania, which is a more extreme case of
hypomania. A manic episode is a period of an elevated or irritable mood
for at least one week. The symptoms must cause problems in daily
functioning and cannot be caused by a medical condition or drugs.
Manic symptoms are: inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need
for sleep, more talkative than usual, flight of ideas or racing thoughts,
attention easily drawn to unimportant or irrelevant items, increase in
goal-directed activity or psychomotor agitation, and excessive involvement
in pleasurable activities which may have negative consequences and psychotic
tendencies with hallucinations may occur.

Also bipolar disorder patients may also go through mixed episodes,
which are periods when the patient has both a manic
episode and a major depressive episode every day for at least one week.
The person may not mind the mania or may be in denial of the disease, and since it only lasts a
few hours, no one else may even notice. By the time people actually
begin to notice the manic-depressive cycle or the mania it has
reached a point where the patient is barely able to function
normally. the difference between mania and hypomania.
　
Researchers are still seeking the cause of manic depression. The most
popular theory is that the disorder is caused by an imbalance of
norepinephrine and serotonin. During manic periods there are unusually
high levels of norepinephrine and serotonin while, during depressed
periods, there are unusually low levels. The biological explanation is
also supported by genetic features. Many twin studies have been
performed which have shown a predominance of bipolar disorder among
identical and fraternal twins with the chance of inheritance in identical twins
Bipolar patients often have a family history of both bipolar and unipolar
disorder. In addition the preferred method of treatment for bipolar disorder
is medication.
　
Treatment for manic depression consists of mood stabilizers, medications
that balance the manic and depressive states experienced by patients with
bipolar disorder. The most common treatment, or the first medication
attempted, is Lithium. Lithium increases the serotonin and norepinephrine
this causes its counterbalancing effects of mania and depression.
However, many patients do not respond to Lithium
Some say that this is due to the drug, while others maintain that
it is due to lack of consistency in taking the drug.
Lithium is not effective for all types of bipolar disorder, so other
medications have been produced to help Lithium resistant individuals.

Anticonvulsants are the second medications to control the
symptoms of bipolar disorder. Valproate and Carbamazepine are
the two used more frequently. Medication seems to be the best treatment for
bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy is also helpful, particularly
a therapy which focuses on readjusting patient's
perceptions of life. However, patients still experience symptoms.


One interesting factor with bipolar disorder is the creativity of those afflicted.
This is not the normal creativity experienced by the
above-average people. This creativity is the
creative genius, which is so rare, yet a large percentage of the
well-known creative people were/are afflicted with manic depression.
Ernest Hemingway, Sylvia Plath, Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky.
Psychiatrists, realizing a connection that is not just coincidence, have
performed studies all over the world in an attempt to establish a link
between bipolar disorder and creativity.
　

Biographical studies of earlier generations of artists and writers which show that they a
greater rate of suicide as compared to the general population
The results of these studies provide proof that there is a link between
bipolar disorder and creative genius
The studies show that it is not is not whether or not there exists a connection
between the two, but why it exists.

One common feature in mania or hypomania is the increase in unusually
creative thinking and productivity. The thought processes of mania is faster and more fluent than normal
which influences creative thought,. Manic people often
speak and think in rhyme more than non-manic people.
The lifestyles of manic-depressives in their manic phase
is comparable to those of creative people. Both groups function on very
little sleep, restless attitudes, and they both exhibit depth and emotion
beyond normal. Biologically speaking, the brain functioons at a faster rate
and it can respond quickly and intellectually with
a range of changes.
The manic state is speeded upand allows more room for creativity because the person feels capable of anything.
Inhibitions do not exist in manic people, allowing
them to become creative geniuses. They understand a part of art, music,
and literature which normal people can not attempt.

The manic state is in complete opposite to the depressive phase of bipolar patients.

In the depressed phase, patients only see gloom and boundaries. They feel
helpless, and out of this helplessness comes the creativity. The only
way bipolar patients can survive their depressed phases, oftentimes, is to
release their despondency through some creative work.
Since the states of mania and depression are so different,
the two ends up being chaotic. Looking at some works of literature
or music, it can be noticed which phase the creator was in at the time of
composition. . Researchers say that most actual compositions result from this
in-between period because this is the only time when the patient can
physically deliver something worthwhile. Because the phases are so
chaotic, the ideas flow during the manic and depressive states, but the
final, developed products are formed during the normal periods.
The major problem with bipolar disorder is that drug
treatment often decreases or takes away the creativity in the patient. Before
drug therapy was not used, the creativity would be free.
But in order for the bipolar to cope with day to day
living, their creativity must be sacrificed. Doctors and
researchers are constantly searching to provide treatment for the
symptoms. In the case of bipolar disorder, the world benefits
from the mood swings exhibitedby these patients.
Though their ability to function properly in life since the
cycling between manic and depressive phases is so traumatic and energy
depleting, creativity is something to conserve. With more effective drug treatment
hopefully there will be medication that will allo the
creative genius of the patients to survive and allow them to function in society
with a better quality of life.

Bipolars and Relationships

　
　
How does bipolar disorder affect others?
When a friend or relative has bipolar disorder, it affects you too. Taking care of someone with bipolar disorder can be stressful. You have to cope with the mood swings and sometimes there are drinking and drug problems called double trouble. Sometimes the stress can strain your relationships with other people. In severe cases those who help care can lose time off of work and much of their free time for themel
　
No one likes to be a bipolar victim but interesting enough being married to a person even when they are showing symptoms of the disease can make a relationship exciting.
Some of the most successful people in this world are bipolar financially it can be very satisfying. But also on the
other side there are the unlucky. They are either victims of
bipolar mania or they themselves are the victims of abuse because of the disorder.
　
People with the severe mania illness are capable of destroying
you no matter how strong and capable you are, because they use your emotions
against you and they can turn very cold and destructive very easily.
Well intentioned people have gone into relationships believing it will be different with
them only to learn a few years later they have become the a victim.
This mental illness is chaotic and the manic symptoms can be
really destructive to a relationship.
　
Bipolars when pursuing the opposite sex can be too good to be true.
They appear to be loving compassionate people putting you first before everything else.
This may be an actual trait but during a manic high it becomes exaggerated and viscious jealosy arises.
　
The high sexual thoughts they are going through, finds them can visiting
strip clubs and flirting with others. Even though your partner may not have a history of promiscuous affairs, bipolar manias’
symptom of high sex libido drives them to look for attention or highs
elsewhere. This quickly turns to lies to cover up other lies that have been committed and there is no signs of guilt.
　
　
There are those who have been plagued with extreme mood swings. People think
it's controllable, but its not. When they go through intense highs, everything
is fantastic and they are the life of the party as long as no one does anything to inturupt their high.
A harmless joke can set off a chain reaction with verbal insults and
even physical violence.
　
With bipolars everything and anything can stimulate them.
They can even go for days without sleeping, because their mind is running wild
with interesting things to do. Spending money is like throwing paper around.
They can be full of plans without the slightest regard for work or money. or become obsessed with
produtivity. Anything that can feed the high.
　
　
Depressive episode usually follows the highs, and can go on for weeks or months . The lows vary in severity from just tired
to no energy whatsoever. Usually when
patients are going through this period they have no confidence and their self
worth or self esteem suffers. Because of these depressed thoughts and feelings
many stay in their bed.
　
　
If you know someone who is a bipolar it affects you too. The first and
most important thing you can do is help him or her get the right diagnosis and
treatment. You may need to make the appointment and go with them to see
the doctor. Encourage them to stay in treatment.
Offer emotional support, understanding, patience, and encouragement
Learn about bipolar disorder so you can understand what your friend or
relative is experiencing
Talk to your friend or relative and listen carefully
Listen to feelings Invite them out to positive distractions, such as walks,
and other activities
Never ignore comments about their harming themselves.
　
Like other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder can be difficult for spouses,
family members, friends Relatives and friends often have
to cope with the person's serious behavioral problems, such as wild spending
sprees during mania, extreme withdrawal during depression, poor work or school
performance
.
The family has to deal with how this affects their own health. The stress that
loved ones are under may lead to missed work or lost free time, strained
relationships with people who may not understand the situation, and physical and
mental exhaustion.
　
Stress from care can make it hard to cope with a loved one's bipolar
symptoms. It is important that people caring for
those with bipolar disorder also take care of themse
　
Bipolar disorder is an illness like other medical illnesses. It's not something
to be ashamed of. It can be emotionally and physically
draining for the people around you. Needless to say, having bipolar disease can
put a strain on even the best relationships.
Bipolar disorder can really affect relationships. Every single
relationship they have will be affected whether it is an intimate relationship,
a parental relationship, or a friendship
.People who suffer from the condition get argumentative. They suffer from extreme
irritability and that causes them to lash out and to hurt the people
around them. Often sufferers are too ashamed to tell the people they love what
they are going through. They feel that if they do, their loved ones will think
less of them. That fear sometimes causes them to keep the condition a secret for
as long as they possibly can. But keeping your condition a secret from people
close to you may not be the best thing to do. It helps if your
trusted friends and family know what you're going through.
　
People you choose to tell about your illness will need to learn a little about the disorder and its
wide sometimes uncontrolable emotional behaviors, from deep lows to flat out mania.
　
Keeping relationships with family and friends increases the chance for recovery and sometimes with the
right treatment complete remission.

The Stigma of Mental Illness

The public continues to this day to emphasize the difference between Mental and Physial Health People see mental and physical as separate functions when mental functions are physical as well Mental functions are carried out by the brain mental disorders are reflected in physical changes in the brain Physical changes in the brain often trigger physical changes in other parts of the body too. The racing heart, dry mouth, and sweaty palms that accompany a terrifying nightmare are created by the brain. A nightmare is a mental state caused by chemical changes in the brain which esults in physial symptoms
Mental health refers to the successful performance of mental functions in terms of thought, mood, and behavior. Mental disorders are conditions in which alterations in mental functions arepresent The brain carries out all mental functions, it also carries out some physical functions, such as movement, touch, and balance. That is why not all brain diseases are mental disorders. A stroke causes a lesion in the brain that may produce disturbances of movement, such as paralysis When such symptoms occur they are physical but caused by the brain But when dementia caused by a strok produces alterations of thought, mood, or behavior, it is considered a mental condition
Stigmatization of people with mental disorders has persisted throughout history. Bias, distrust, stereotyping, fear, embarrassment, anger, and/or avoidance exists. Stigma leads others to avoid living, socializing or working with, renting to, or employing people with mental disorders, especially severe disorders such as schizophrenia It reduces patient access to resources and opportunities and leads to low self-esteem, isolation, and hopelessness. Stigma results in discrimination and abuse. It deprives people of their dignity and interferes with their full participation in socirty
　
　
　
In colonial times in t he United States, people with mental illness were described as lunatics. They lived with and cared for by families. There was no public agencies to treat mental illness until urbanization in the early 19th century created a problem in society for families in small rural communities. Asylums where persons with mental illness were treated with the treatments of the era. Throughout the history of institutionalization in asylums where reformers worked to improve treatment and stop abuse. This reform continued up to in the deinstitutionalization movement that began in the 1950s and ended in shifting patients and care to the community.
　
Public attitudes about mental illness since the 1950s shifted to the moral and humane. Over time, several surveys of the 1970s and the 1990s brought about changes exactly as they had been in the 1950s .
In the 1950s, the public viewed mental illness as a stigmatized condition and displayed an no real understanding of mental illness. Typically the public was not able to identify individuals as mentally ill when presented with individuals who would have been said to be mentally ill according to the professionals The public was unable to distinguish mental illness from ordinary unhappiness and worry and more than likely they saw only extreme forms of behavior as mental illness. Mental illness was a social stigma, looked upon with fear of unpredictable and violent behavior.
By 1996, Americans had achieved greater scientific understanding of mental illness. But the knowledge did not change the social stigma. The public learned to about mental illness and could distinguish it from ordinary worry and unhappiness. It gained an understanding of mental illness to include anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders. Unfortunaty to the public mental illness was a mix of biological abnormalities and social and psychological stress Compar with the 1950s, the public’s perception of mental illness was associated more with violent behavior. Half of those questioned of a group study placed violence in its descriptions of mental illness. The publics perception of people with psychosis as being dangerous is stronger today than in the past.
The public was more likely to say that an individual with schizophrenia as having a mental illness than a person suffering from depression
Why is stigma so strong despite better public understanding of mental illness?
This Are people with mental disorders truly more violent? The greatest risk of violence is from those who have dual diagnoses individuals who have a mental disorder as well as a substance abuse disorder. There is a small elevation in risk of violence from individuals with severe mental disorders especially if they are noncompliant with their medication. Yet the risk of violence is much less for a stranger than for a family member or person who is known to the person with mental illness There is very little risk of violence or harm to a stranger from casual contact with an individual who has a mental disorder.
Because most people should have little reason to fear violence from those with mental illness. The public’s stereotypes linking violence and mental illness and encouraged people to distance themselves from those with mental disorders Deinstitutionalization made this distance less likely. Deinstitutionalization expected stigma to be reduced with community care and commonplace exposure. Stigma might have been greater today had not public education resulted in a more scientific understanding of mental illness.
Approximately only one third of all people with diagnosable mental disorders seek treatment Stigma surrounding the mental health treatment is discourages people from seeking treatment. Concern about stigma is heightened in rural areas in relation to larger towns or cities. Stigma also affects certain age groups.
Evolving public attitudes about how people would cope with, and seek treatment for, mental illness if they became symptomatic. (The term "nervous breakdown became prominate instead of mental illness and people were likelier than in the past to approach mental illness by coping with, rather than by avoiding, the problem. Informal social supports, self-help groups. Those who now sought professional support preferred counselors, psychologists, and social workers.
　
The publics willingness to pay for mental health treatment, through insurance, seems to carry a willingness to pay for insurance coverage for individuals with severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia and depression, rather than for less severe conditions. The public generally appears to support paying for treatment, its support diminishes upon the realization that higher taxes or premiums would be necessary. The public generally ranks insurance coverage for mental disorders below that for physical disorders.
　
There is no simple or single way to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness. Stigma was expected to stop with increased knowledge of mental illness, but stigma in some ways intensified over the past 40 years even though understanding improved.

The History of Deinstitutionalisation of the Mentally Ill in America

　
Deinstitutionalisation is the process of replacing long-stay psychiatric hospitals with less isolated community living mental health services with mentally ill or developmentally challenged patients Deinstitutionalisation is aimed at reducing the population size of mental institutions shortening the length of stays, and reducing both admissions and readmission
Deinstitutionalisation is the practice of transferring homeless, involuntarily hospitalized mental patients from state mental hospitals into different kinds of psychiatric institutions funded by the federal government The plan is striving to combat mental illness in the United State.
In many cases, the mass deinstitutionalisation of the mentally ill from the 1960s onwards has translated into a mass release of patients into the community. Individuals who previously would have been in mental institutions are no longer supervised by health care workers.
The 19th century saw a large expansion in the number and size of asylums Although initially were thought to be moral and humane confinement they became o non-therapeutic, isolated in location, and neglected in the care require
By the beginning of the 20th century, the admissions had resulted in serious overcrowding. inadquate funding especially during periods of economic decline, and war, many patients starved to death. Asylums became institutions with poor living conditions, lack of hygiene, overcrowding, ill-treatment, and abusive
The first community-based alternatives started in the 1920s and 1930s, asylum numbers continued to increase up to the 1950s deinstitutionalisation began strongly in various countries in the 1950s and 1960s.
Public outrage helped expose the poor conditions and treatment. Sociologists argued that these institutions created dependency, passivity, exclusion and disability and caused people to be instistutionalized much like prison
Community services were thought to be cheaper and new psychiatric medications made it more feasible to release people into the communit
Community services began with supported housing with full or partial supervision within the public community Costs have been said to be lower in some ca
Although deinstitutionalisation has been positive for the majority of patients for some it has severe repurcussions
Hopes that ommunity care would lead to fuller social integration are not achieved; many remain without work, have limited social contacts and often live in sheltered environments.
Community services are often unable to meet complex needs. Services in the community sometimes isolate the mentally ill where clients meet each other but have little contact with the rest of the community. Instead of community living reforms established an Open air Institution
Often there is insufficient preparation or support. A greater proportion of people with mental disorders became homeless or are imprisoned Homelessness has increased in some states in the USA Families can often play a crucial role in the care of those who would be placed in long-term treatment centers; however, many mentally ill people are resistant to such help because of the mental condition The majority of those who would be under continuous care in long-stay psychiatric hospitals are paranoid and delusional to the point that they refuse help and do not believe they need it, which makes it difficult to treat them.
Moves to community living and services leads to various concerns and fears, from both the individuals themselves and other members of the community
In every category of crime, including rape/sexual assault, other violent assaults, and personal and property theft the incident rates have increased The rates are similar in those with developmental disabilities
The unfounded idea that people with mental disorders released into the community are more likely to be dangerous and violent, a large study indicated that they were no more likely to commit violence than those in the neighborhoods usually economically deprived and high in substance abuse and crime where they are typically placed in
Findings on violence committed by those with mental disorders in the community have been inconsistent a higher rate of the most serious offenses such as homicide has sometimes been found but, despite high-profile homicide cases, the evidence suggests this has not increased ofdeinstitutionalisatio Aggression and violence that does occur is usually within the families
Deinstitutionalisation began in the USA IN 1950s and targeted people with mental illness. 15 years after individuals who had been diagnosed with a developmental disability were being placed in the community Although these movement began over 50 years ago, deinstitutionalisation continues today
The social forces that have led to a move for deinstitutionalisationpublic opinion of those with mental disabilities, and state's desire to reduce facilities for the mentally ill
Public awareness of the conditions of mental institutions began to increase during World War II Following WWII, articles and exposes about the mental hospital conditions would bombard popular and scholarly magazines and periodicals. These findings led to increased knowledge that mental illness was moderately prevalent. More importantly, people began to realize that cost that would be associated with more individuals being admitted to mental institutions (i
This time period was the beginning in the change of public and congressional attitudes toward the mentally ill. Since many individuals suffering from mental illness had served in the military, many began to think that more knowledge about mental illness and better services could benefit the men that served as well as the nation as a whole. that would be essential in developing the mental health field.
During the 1950s many new drugs became available and incorporated into therapy for the mentally ill. These new drugs were effective in reducing severe symptoms, which would allow people with mental illnesses to live in communities Drug therapy not onlyt depopulated the mental institutions, but it also opened opportunities for employment of the mentally
In general, professionals, civil rights leaders, and humanitarians saw deinstitutional confinement to local care as the appropriate approach.The Movement started off slowly but when it adopted the philosophy of the Civil Rights Movement It took off During the 1960s, deinstitutionalisation decreased dramatically as the average length of stay decreased by more than half. Instead of placing people with mental illnesses in long term institutions, many began to be placed in community care facilities where they could get care for their mental health needs. The deinstitutionalisation that took place in the United States was a transition from a mental institution to a more community centered facility
As hospitalisation costs increased due to improvements advocated by civic groups, both the federal and state governments desired to find less expensive alternatives to hospitalisation With the government on the side of deinstitutionalisation, getting legislation passed proved less difficult
Observers of the homeless issue also saw a change related to deinstitutionalisation Studies from the late 1980s indicated that one-third to one-half of homeless people had severe psychiatric disorders, often occurring with substance abuse
　
While the original idea of deinstitutionalization as it was in the beginning as a more humane way of living for the mentally ill There are still flaws which continue to make Community Living an alternative that needs to be restructuted to the individual eeds of each person with a mental disorder
Grouping and labeling of people continues to be a form of predjudice which still thrives with the stigma of Mental Illness

THE CHANGES OF MEDICAL TREATMENT IN BIPOLARS SINCE 1950 IN AMERICA

　
　
Bipolar affective disorder has been a mystery since the 16th century. History has shown that this affliction can appear in almost anyone. Even the great painter Vincent Van Gogh is believed to have had bipolar disorder. It is clear that in our society many people live with bipolar disorder; however, despite the abundance of people suffering from it, we are still waiting for explanations for the causes and cure. The one fact of which we do know is that bipolar disorder severely disables its ones ability to obtain and maintain social and occupational success.
Affective disorders are characterized by symptoms that can be broken into manic and depressive episodes. The depressive episodes are characterized by intense feelings of sadness and despair that can become feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Some of the symptoms of a depressive episode include disturbances in sleep and appetite, psycomoter retardation, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, guilt, difficulty thinking, indecision, and recurrent thoughts of death and suicide The manic episodes are characterized by elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, poor judgment and insight, and often reckless or irresponsible behavior Bipolar affective disorder affects approximately three million people in the United States. It occurs in both males and females. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania and depression. These episodes may alternate with profound depressions with persistant sadness, almost inability to move, hopelessness, and disturbances in appetite, sleep, in concentration
Bipolar disorder is diagnosed if an episode of mania occurs whether depression has been diagnosed or not Most commonly, individuals with manic episodes experience a period of depression. Symptoms include elated, expansive, or irritable mood, hyperactivity, pressure of speech, flight of ideas, inflated self esteem, decreased need for sleep, distractibility, and excessive involvement in reckless activities (H.
Bipolar disorder can create substantial developmental delays, marital and family disruptions, occupational setbacks, and financial disasters. This devastating disease causes loss of jobs and millions of dollars in cost to society. Many times bipolar patients report that the depressions are longer and increase in frequency as the individual ages. Many times bipolar states and psychotic states are misdiagnosed as schizophrenia. Speech patterns help distinguish between the two disorders
The onset of Bipolar disorder usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 years of age, with a second peak in the mid-forties for women. A typical bipolar patient may experience eight to ten episodes in their lifetime. However, those who have rapid cycling may experience more episodes of mania and depression that succeed each other without a period of remission
The three stages of mania begin with hypomania, in which patients report that they are energetic, extroverted and assertive Doctors believe that the hypomania stateshows that bipolar patients are «addicted» to their mania. Hypomania progresses into mania and the transition is marked by loss of judgment Often, euphoric grandiose characteristics are displayed, and paranoid or irritable characteristics progress The third stage of mania is evident when the patient experiences delusions with often paranoid themes. Speech is generally rapid and hyperactive behavior manifests sometimes associated with violence
When both manic and depressive symptoms occur at the same time it is called a mixed episode. Because there is a combination of hopelessness, agitation, and anxiety that makes them feel like they «could jump out of their skin they are a higher risk patients. Patients report feeling dysphoric, depressed, and unhappy; yet, they exhibit the energy associated with mania. Rapid cycling mania is another of the bipolar disorder. Mania may be present with four or more distinct episodes within a 12 month period This form of the disease exhibits more episodes of mania and depression than bipolar.
Lithium has been the primary treatment of bipolar disorder since its introduction in the 1960’s. It is main function is to stabilize the cycling characteristic of bipolar disorder. The overall response rate for bipolar subjects treated with Lithium was is more than 3/4 of patients Lithium is also the primary drug used for long – term maintenance of bipolar disorder. In a majority of bipolar patients, it lessens the duration, frequency, and severity of the episodes of both mania and depression.
Unfortunately,the other 1/4 of bipolar patients are either unresponsive to lithium or can not tolerate the side effects. Some of the side effects include thirst, weight gain, nausea, diarrhea, and edema. Patients who are unresponsive to lithium treatment are often those who experience dysphoric mania, mixed states, or rapid cycling bipolar disorder.
One of the problems associated with lithium is the fact the long-term lithium treatment has been associated with decreased thyroid functioning in patients with bipolar disorder. Another problem associated with the use of lithium is experienced by pregnant women. Its use during pregnancy has been associated with birth defects
There are other effective treatments for bipolar disorder that are used in cases where the patients cannot tolerate lithium or have been unresponsive to it in the past. The next line of treatment to be Anticonvulsant drugs such as valproate and carbamazepine. These drugs are useful as antimanic agents, especially in those patients with mixed states. Both of these medications can be used in combination with lithium or in combination with each other. Valproate is especially helpful for patients who are lithium noncompliant, experience rapid-cycling, or have alcohol or drug abuse.
Neuroleptics such as haloperidol or chlorpromazine have also been used to help stabilize manic patients who are highly agitated or psychotic. Use of these drugs is often necessary because the response to them are rapid, but there are risks involved in their use. Because of the often severe side effects, Benzodiazepines are often used in their place. Benzodiazepines can achieve the same results as Neuroleptics for most patients in terms of rapid control of agitation and excitement, without the severe side effects.
Antidepressants such as fluovamine and amitriptyline have also been used by some doctors as treatment for bipolar disorder. A study showed that fluvoxamine and amitriptyline are highly effect Conflicting research shows that antidepressants can actually precipitate manic episodes. Most doctors can see the usefulness of antidepressants when used in conjunction with mood stabilizing medications such as lithium.
In addition to the mentioned medical treatments of bipolar disorder, there are several other options available to bipolar patients, most of which are used in conjunction with medicine. One such treatment is light therapy. . Bipolar patients in one study showed a improvement in their depressive symptoms, with no incidence of mania or hypomania. They all continued to use light therapy, and all showed a sustained positive response Hypomanic symptoms were experienced by some of bipolar patients in this study. Predominant hypomanic symptoms included racing thoughts, deceased sleep and irritability. it is evident from this study that light treatment may be associated with the symptoms. Careful professional monitoring during light treatment is necessary, even for those without a history of major mood disorders.
Another treatment for bipolar disorder is electro-convulsive shock therapy. ECT is the preferred treatment for severely manic pregnant patients and patients who are homicidal, psychotic, catatonic, medically compromised, or severely suicidal. In one study, researchers found marked improvement in patients treated with ECT, compared to patients treated only with lithium and of patients who received neither, ECT or lithium
A final type of therapy is outpatient group psychotherapy. The value of support groups influenced mental health professionals to take a more serious look at group therapy for the bipolar population.
Research shows that group participation may help increase lithium compliance, decrease denial regarding the illness, and increase awareness of both external and internal stress factors leading to manic and depressive episodes. Group therapy for patients with bipolar disorders responds to the need for support and reinforcement of medication management, and the need for education and support for the interpersonal difficulties that arise .

Bipolar Disorder and Minorities

Bipolar Disorder and Minorities

Every person regardless of race should seek help if they have a mental health problem or
symptoms of a mental disorder.

A large number of Inner city young people have seen someone shot or stabbed. Exposure to community violence, as victim or witness, leaves immediate and long-term effects on mental health, especially for youthAn Ethnic View of Mental Illness
Mental health issues facing four ethnic groups, including African Americans, American Indians and Alaskan Natives, Asians and Pacific Islanders, and Hispanic Americans They all face a social and economic environment of inequality that takes its toll on mental health.
If these people happen to be poor a lack of access to treatment mistrust of the system, stigma, communication difficulties, and stereotyping.
African Americans and Latinos felt their healthcare provider treated them badly because of race or economic background as opposed to whites.
In some Asian cultures, mental illness is thought to reflect badly on family and diminishes marriage and economic prospects for other members.
African Americans are overdiagnosed for schizophrenia and underdiagnosed for bipolar disorder
African Americans and Asians in general are slow metabolizers of certain antipsychotics and antidepressents Physicians unaware of this may prescribe doses that are too high, resulting in severe side effects and unwilliness to continue in treatment
American Indians and Native Alaskans do not have a doctor or clinic that can provide regular or preventive health care.
Many Southeast Asian refugees are at grave risk as a result of the traumas they experienced for Vietnamese for Cambodians for Laotians losing a lot of their population in war.
Mexican immigrants had lower prevalence rates for depression and other disorders than Mexican Americans born in the US.
Hispanics
In California latinos will outnumber whites. this "minority" will be in a majority with whites Strong family attachments, supportive community networks, and deep spiritual/religious convictions. of those with severe mental illness Those who responded to treatment were latinos and African-Americans living with their families, as opposed to whites
interventions targeted to specific cultural groups were more effective than non-targeted interventions and that those conducted in a client's native language were more effective as those conducted in English.In addition, Dr Barrio pointed out, families from third-world nations tend to manifest lower "expressed emotions," such as hostilities. Acceptance and warmth in Mexican-American families, for instance, predict better outcomes from schizophrenia.
American Indians
American Indians/Alaskan natives now reside in urban areas. Indians are moving to the cities for the same reasons the rest of us do - jobs and education.
Indian life expectancy, is less than non-natives, a Where the death rates are significantly lower among older men than their counterparts among other races), diabetes higher unintentional injuries homicide and suicide very high in the young population but lower in elders than the general population
Elders in the Indian had their culture as forced boarding schools banned spiritual practices and loss of land Barriers to mental health include differences in cultural beliefs about mental illness cultural labeling of different emotions lack of mental health professionals in the system lack of large scale studies and lack of cultural orientation for providers such as in the healing traditions Rarely do elders seek out available mental health services.
Asians and Pacific Islands
among other things Asian elders are confronted by a difference between how Asians and Americans view the elderly The family matriariac may find herself a stranger in a strange land even within her own family especially if dealing with Americanized children and grandchildren.
Asian Americans whose families experience a high interpersonal conflict have a greater risk of attempting suicide compared to the general Asian population. T even among those who never had a history of depression the strength of family values in Asian communities Family harmonyis a value coming from Confucianist and Taoist beliefs
Since depression is often caused by problems in life clients need help regaining a sense of control and thereby improve their mood people who are engaged in social activities have less depression than those not engaged.
African Americans
It is said that a majority of African American children are raised in poverty. African Americans earn lower than the median income They are more likely than whites to pay out of pocket, and their treatment is more likely to be terminated quickly.
But they end up in the hospital more and are more likely to be treated with old generation antipschotics Doctors tend to misinterpret cultural traits as psychotic features such as speech idioms while underdiagnosing for bipolar and depression. Some African Americans distrust the mental health system and do not seek out help
Ironically, black people are experiencing higher rates of depression and suicide at a time when they are entering the middle class in increasing numbers. Young blacks also account for a large part of all homicide deaths in America in what can be described as a form of suicide
Although great strength allowed black people to survive slavery and discrimination but the idea that black men and women can easily handle burdens that would psychologically crush other people has been overated
Poverty
When depression hits someone in the middle class it's relatively easy to recognize. You are doing your everyday business then suddenly you begin feeling bad all the time and when you crash you attract the attention of your friends, coworkers, and family.
For the poor it just goes with the territory most people just take it as just a part of life for the have nots

Most of the Heads of households receiving Aid to Families with Dependent Children are clinical depressed and pregnant welfare mothers are in the same condition.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Buck up Oh it cant be that bad Your in a good mood today Be quiet for a minute You paid what for that But you just got paid
What have you been smoking Phrases that I love to hate How to tell if you are a Bipolar Have you heard these phrases excessively Think about it

SYMPTOMS BIPOLAR DISORDER

MANIA
The symptoms of Bipolar Mania include

Period of elevated expansive or irritable mood Other symptoms include Beliefs of possessing exaggerated power importance
knowledge or ability Decreased need for sleep More talkative than usual pressure to keep talking
Rapidly changing unrelated or racing thoughts Easily distracted
Driven behavior at work at school or sexually agitation Risky behavior
Excessive spending foolish business investments

DEPRESSION

Symptoms of Bipolar Depression Include

Occurring nearly every day Depressed mood most of the day
feeling sad or empty tearful Significant loss of interest or pleasure in activities that used to e enjoyable Significant weight loss when not dietingor weight gain decrease or increase in appetite
Difficulty in sleeping or sleeping too much Agitation or slowing down of thoughts and reduction of physical movements
Fatigue or loss of energy Feelings of worthlessness
or inappropriate guilt Poor concentration or having
difficulty making decisions
Thinking about death or suicide

Most people have felt some of these symptoms at least once in their life and it is normal But if they persist or are becoming more frequently Then
they can be words you Love to Hate


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Medications

The dangers of being Bipolar can be medication There are certain drugs that are used to treat Bipolar Disorder They range from simple antipsychotics and antidepressents to drugs that are used for their side effects such as mood altering and sedating

One of the popular and famous medication is a simple natural product called Lithium It is a natual salt but the has dangerous side effects when used without the addition of simple table salt When on this medication the blood levels can become too high in your body without using extra table salt

When the blood level of Lithium is too high the symptoms range from a simple tremor in the extremeties hands legs to convultions and vomiting excessivly Left unchecked death can occur It is the drug of choice for Bipolar Disorder Other drugs called antisiezure medications are used when Lithium can not be tolorated or in some cases it does not work one of them called Lamictal There are dangerous side effects with Lamicatal and medications like it one is a severe rash which can also result in death or complicated side effects Your equilibrium can beso badly affecte that you have difficulty with you coordination there is the possibillity of falling becoming extremely clumsy

With medications like these there is a chance of diabeties and a tremendous weight gain Most people on these medications experience weight gain up to 100 lbs which leads to physical problems due to medications

The side effects of these medications are often worse than the disorder itself it may seem Sleeplessness is treated with medications like Klonipin it can cause restlessness suicida lthoughts and actions and panic attacks

The medication side effects are sometimes worse than the disorder itself

Why I llove to hate the the medications in common use for Bipolar Disorder Is the cure worth the risks in taking medication For some people it is so they go off of medication and have to be hospitilized The lesser of two evils sometimes

Unstable

Mania has no boundaries no limitations when all is lost there can only be the top Coming down can be harsh and feels like a thrusting power pushing you deeper into your depression to the depths of the pain into the Hell your mind creates

Feel it in your sould the rythmic beat of a drum Your mind dancing with thoughts start out in blues as the tempo pulsates you heart throbs with the messages from your brain

The beat of the drums causes a frenzy The music is in you and you have become the beating drum The lyics of thoughts echo and the clashing cymbals your mind vibrates You know extasy Living for the rhythm the rhythm coexisting in you and when your dance is over there is nothing but down

Practicality what a splendid word What does it say to me when I rise When would you expect me to be spendthrift generous thrifty for the moment I can not or even care to say Why excessivness Why do we throw money around when the credit cards are our best friends I can rejoice when there is an abundance and cry at the times of plenty

From the joy of spending there is the passion of saving Wonderful words Numbers to see on paper When when whe will this occur Can I hope for more

Brainchild talents used to such a degree as to be called a zealot does not matter when all that there is the matter with me is nothing but what is the matter with me

Thinking feeling lack of sympathy lack of control will bring me back to my happy point th most important thing of all is joy always joy in sadness only for the ones who cannot feel it

I swm blessed with my mania but for some reason I am cursed with my lows Is there an answer for me for others An emphativ yes yes yes but do they forget the feelings do they lack the ability to remember and stay on the worn pah of stability or do they choose to fall bewildered and sadly happily

I do not know Pumping iron my creativity flys on the wings of furute moodswings the exuberence the vigerous enjoymen t of my life as I know it and have since birth

What is the point of all life is showing me a good time

Flight of Ideas

My minds power to feel pain when none is present cause violent emotions in my physical self Exhausted my own brain cringes at the thought of having nother thought

Rejoicing in solitary thinking which is silent talking causes hallucinations Silent thinking is a defense mechanisim for Pressure of speech Pressure of speech is when a Bipolar in a manic episode is unable to control their speech and experiences constant talking In severe cases can be mistaken for gibberish

Anything in my mind trys to be unknown even to those who can understand them We live in thoughts not breaths The life given to us by our own body chemistry Understanding comes difficult when we do not know what or where they come from deep seeded memories of episodes past when we know that the past is always the future present

We use the power of our minds conceiving ideas and expanding on these thoughts until we have flight of ideas This is what it is called when we build a thought on a thought

Flight of ideas is a expounding thoughts on thoughts like a author writing an story based on one subject and building a story from one idea embellishing the one idea into a paragraph into a chapter into a book Like rumors passed from word of mouth until it is unrecognized from what was originally said

Flight of ideas can bring about a higher high so that the manic episode can become worse until it may reach delerium which is a state of pure thought

Experiences

Experiences

Moodswings are a gift from God Although for us Satans playtoy

We can live our lives with memories like you or the delusions and hallucinations Delusions of grandeur although difficult for the layman to see are sacred to experience They are a rollercoaster neverending or appears to be that Eventually comes the crash and with it the knowledge of what it is to lose billions of dollars

You say this can not be yet there are realistic beliefs of being rich or a belief of being given the cure for all illnesses with the sacrafice of yourself Horrorific visions or beautiful angels appear and for a time there are revealing statements coming from them

The endless conversations I have had with the voices my mind has created In a lonely world pf hospitsalizations I had my friends Sometimes the only ones I knew

Hospitalizations what experiences are seen behind closed doors the restraints physical and chemical and emotional strait jackets of every kind whether for the to limit movement of your arms to the canvas sheets where only your facial expressions and voice are shown to the walls of other patients and staff

As a client there are many things that are forbidden but sometimes there are the favorites who receive gifts and encouragement for acceptable behavior Like a child Children we are with the capabilities of being what we are and can be Sane or insane

How We Are Perceived

How We Are Perceived

The empathetic ability in dealing with a mental disorder is lacking in most people Why do we Love to Hate The conviction that we are totally mad an incapable of being a person who instead of having the cognizant and comprehending the needs feelings problems and views of others

It is almost that a particular ability to be articulate can communicate and even talk to you in a civilized way So many brilliant actors singers and poets are my brothers and sisters Think perhaps that one of your ancestors was or is one of my own Would you consider them one of the rejected in society

Reflect on this and you reproches would turn to oh so proud so equal with me An insane person complex yet blessed and cursed with a diordered brain Will one of your children be a special child of God and know what it is feels like to have the Joy
That is in sitting in the right arm of Jesus

Complex disordered do you even dare to think that at one time in your life you have not felt what we feel The sadness the death of a loved one the exctasy at your childs wedding or an innocent birth The pain and rapture of natural child birth

Oh we know no matter that there is no such event we can conceive yet there is no active stimulus We can fly we can grovel in the mud yet there is no reason why we should not or is there

We wear foolscaps of compassion and discernment but often our fervor for life turns imagination clouded with the atmosphere of delusional thinking Our so wonderous minds are distorted and we are thrown into an episode

We misuse the powers of our minds conceiving ideas neglecting the soundness and balance within to the point of impairing the capacity to function normally and safely but we are human so we make mistakes Can you blame us

Depression

Depression

Today I feel a distance from everyone Again Why do I Love to Hate

Again I want to run into a mind like mine Someone who can understand whit it is like to feel the way that I do Sometimes I just want to sit down and cry
Sometimes I feel that all I can do is cry Being able to cry is something that is all that I am capable of doing Being unable to cry is a lonely feeling whicch fills up your sole existence for the time you are depressed

Hope is placed on the holding shelf I must find a way out of my occupancy in my mind I must adapt to the changes in my moodswings Thinking of this and determining a plan is complicated Myemotions govern my thoughts My thoughts are restricted and it seems nothing brought forth is in anyway like a decision Not even in the smallest way



When it lifts When you finally can weep there is such a release that you can once again feel your blood rush to you broken heart The heart is healed from all that was contained inside of you Ecletic contemplation shows some benefits although all that is required is an awarness A sensibility a sane mind to contend with the depression



But now I am writing and sharing and for the first time writing in order to share with you


Maybe a thought that was always there Wasted days and years What has brought this on A lot of encourgement from some very special people at a homeless shelter

Mania

Mania

Mania what an unusal thing Why do I love to hate it
I can not even explain it The doctors do not even know what it feels like
My mother died in 1999 shortly after my Grandmother died a few years before both my Father and my Stepgrandfather died When all of this occured I was already on disability for years due to my Bipolar disorder

I remember my mothers death a prime example of emotions reversed In all of the grief I had taken care of my mother after a cancer operation I remember clearly but will never know the reason why I experienced a severe manic episode and went on an intense employment search Twenty interviews were arranged and I managed to go to all and was told by the interviewers that I presented myself very welll and was a fine candidate for the position but as suddenly as it came I crashed into a deep depression I failed to take any positions or even follow through and call to tell them I could not take the job

I deflated like a pricked balloon

This is such a sad sad illness to cauase so much destruction to your emotional state and in this example your guilt is something you have to live with everyday I grieve still and will probably never forget but I have almost forgiven myself for something that I can never explain or understand


Please do not pity me I did the best that I could do I realize that now and I know deep in my soul that she never blamed me

I talk to her now and have learned or am trying to seek advice from her still
Small accomplishment are not easy but are always a beginning

Actually 10 yrs ago I could never had said that another accomplishment late but always will stay with me

Love to Hate

　
LOVE TO HATE
Love to hate my highs hate to love my depressions I am an unstable Bipolar A Bipolar is a mental illness called that because of the two drastic differences in moods Moods are the basic overall feelings people have but in Bipolar Mental illness it is exagerated to a point of psychotic thinking
In bipolar disorder our feelings which are governed by chemicals in the brain that control impulses through nerve endings These impules are either too rapidly or too slowly and these cause feelings of happiness and depression
These feelings can be so drastic that you can have suicidal thoughts and actions or so drastically happy to go on spending sprees and spending thousands of dollars in hours sqaundering life savings on worthless objects in minutes
The thoughts in depression come slowly your movements are slowed down sleeping more or having nightmares in some cases you sleep early in the night and wake early in the morning called early morning awakening and you cannot fall back to sleep Sometimes the desire for sweets is intensified or can be diminished to the point where there is no appetite at all causing drastic weight loss
The Mania or High can cause weight loss but this is due to the constant movement the walking just for the pleasure of moving This can be so bad that there is a huge weight loss and can result in exhaution and burn out
We love our high because of the creativity that comes with it people with Bipolar disorder are often artists musicians writers The creativity can show up in many aspects in life
The Highs bring lack of sleep sometimes for weeks to the point where hospitalization is necessary
There are medications for Bibpolar disorder that works for most of Bipolars but there are some who do not respond to medication and like theor ;oves with Moodswings which is what the Highs and Lows are called are cycles they occur at different times and intensity going from light highs called hypomania to the extreme hypermania and delerium depression to clinical depression Both of these may require hospitalization
There are some who are called Rapid Cyclers they have more than 4 episodes a year These people are rare
Moodswings can be triggered by stress Some Bipolars have only one or two cycles a year some can go for years without episodes

Love to Hate