Schizoaffective Disorder Signs and Symptoms

Schizoaffective disorder is a serious mental illness that has symptoms of two different conditions, schizophrenia and a mood disorder, either major depression or bipolar disorder.

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that distorts the way a person thinks, acts, expresses emotions, perceives reality and relates to others. Depression is an illness that is marked by feelings of sadness, worthlessness or hopelessness, as well as problems concentrating. Bipolar disorder is characterized by cycling mood changes, including severe highs called mania and lows called depression.

Schizoaffective disorder is a lifelong illness that can disrupt all areas of daily living, including work or school, social contacts and relationships. Most people with this illness have periodic episodes. There is no cure for schizoaffective disorder; symptoms can be controlled with proper treatment.

A person with schizoaffective disorder has severe changes in mood and some of the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thinking. Psychotic symptoms reflect the person's inability to tell what is real from what is created by the disorder. Symptoms of schizoaffective may be mild or severe. Symptoms of schizoaffective disorder may include:

Depression:  Poor appetite, Weight loss or gain, Changes in sleeping patterns , Agitation, Lack of energy, Loss of interest in usual activities, Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, Guilt or self-blame, Inability to think or concentrate,  Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts and affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one perceives things.

Schizoaffective disorder is often confused with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (manic depression), because the symptoms are similar.  Some people only ever have one episode, but others may have recurring episodes at intervals throughout their life, usually when they are under stress.
Schizoaffective disorder affects your thinking processes and your moods. Moods can swing from deep depression to extreme elation in the course of one episode of the disorder, and in this it resembles bipolar disorder. Within the same episode, there are also schizophrenia-like symptoms, which might include: hallucinations or delusions.  Having hallucinations and delusions is being psychotic, because, the person having them is out of touch with reality.
Depression may be the symptom you experience most when you have schizoaffective disorder. If you are depressed you will feel sad, lonely, tired and bored with life. You may want to sleep a great deal.  When the depression gets really bad, you may not be aware of having any feelings at all, except emptiness and despair.  Your thoughts may become very morbid.
Depression may alternate with mania; sometimes mild and at other times severe. Mania can make you feel very excited and enthusiastic about life, talkative, and racing thoughts, ideas and plans. You need very little sleep. Your confidence in your own judgement and abilities which can cause difficulty in daily activities.  People are extravagant with money, and pursue sexual encounters and risky business ventures. The euphoria can turn to sour when you become angry and irritable, especially if someone contradicts or questions you.

The cycles of mania and depression can be at regular periods; this varies from person to person. It can be rapid cycling 4 or more episodes a year; to moods alternating every year.  It is possible to live without symptoms for years. But the symptoms can return with no warning. At its extreme, full-blown mania can be a very frightening.   If left untreated, the cycles can begin to happen more rapidly and more severely.

Mixed and Rapid Cycling in Bipolar Disorder

 Unstable mood and energy marks the life of a person with Bipolar Disorder.  People with such instability have big changes in their mood, or energy, or creativity over periods of time.  They may have easy crying.  They may have extreme episodes of anger.  They can sometimes have inappropriate laughing too loudly or too much.    

Mixed states include only phases of full manic and full depressive cycles as short as 4 days.  

 Other combinations of depression and hypomania, or mania exist but not the two full phases together.  And it is possible to have cycles shorter than 4 days.

 For a lot of people, there are no phases of normal functioning; instead, many people have only symptoms, varying from one kind to another.

Symptoms vary separately from one another, and at different durations. 

 Bipolar disorder has phases lasting at least 4 days shorter than that, and it does not meet the official diagnosis. But the shorter versions are seen so often they have their own names.

Many people with Bipolar II do not have the intervals, in between periods of having symptoms that are often spoken about Bipolar I disorder. and Bipolar II.    

 A rapid cycling of the individual symptoms, at different rates, can create a varying pattern of nearly continuous symptoms.  Instead of having periodic episodes, the person has almost constantly shifting symptom phases that blend into one another.

  Many people have rapid cycling and mixed states due to medication for others it is the natural course of the disease.  Mixed states and rapid cycling are hard to treat but treatment is available and with good prognosis in some cases.

Self Management Techniques For Bipolar Patient


 High functioning patients with bipolar disorder who have a long history of illness use a self management techniques to manage their illness.
There are six areas that effect their disorder: sleep, rest, exercise and diet; ongoing monitoring; enacting a plan; reflective and meditative practices; understanding bipolar disorder; and connecting with others.
Sufficient and regular sleep was identified as one of the most important strategies for maintaining or recovery. Choosing healthy foods, eating regularly scheduled meals, and taking vitamin supplements as was regular exercise.
The importance of learning to pay close attention to their moods and activities, in order to judge when to make changes is stressed. Planning for impending manic or depressive episodes,  either an informal understanding between family members or friends or a legal  document to guide decisions.
Reflective and meditative practices ranging from practices such as Tai Chi, yoga, and meditation to activities like regular journal keeping, inspirational reading, and praying can be used with success.
Information about their illness through a variety of sources including: books and newsletters, the internet, attending groups and talking to healthcare teams. Some also shared what they had learned with family member and friends.
Connecting with others was an important technique for many patients, but also keeping a balance between solitary and social time was important. Connections or support group included:  family and friends, professional support, and volunteering their time.
It is important for patients to discover the best coping strategy for themselves.
There are numerous ways to cope with the daily living as a Bipolar patient.  Living a Bipolar Life is difficult, frustrating but in the long run learning ways to help maintain a healthy lifestyle contributes greatly to the success of the medication treatment.

Self Management Techniques For Bipolar Patients

 High functioning patients with bipolar disorder who have a long history of illness use a self management techniques to manage their illness.
There are six areas that effect their disorder: sleep, rest, exercise and diet; ongoing monitoring; enacting a plan; reflective and meditative practices; understanding bipolar disorder; and connecting with others.
Sufficient and regular sleep was identified as one of the most important strategies for maintaining or recovery. Choosing healthy foods, eating regularly scheduled meals, and taking vitamin supplements as was regular exercise.
The importance of learning to pay close attention to their moods and activities, in order to judge when to make changes is stressed. Planning for impending manic or depressive episodes,  either an informal understanding between family members or friends or a legal  document to guide decisions.
Reflective and meditative practices ranging from practices such as Tai Chi, yoga, and meditation to activities like regular journal keeping, inspirational reading, and praying can be used with success.
Information about their illness through a variety of sources including: books and newsletters, the internet, attending groups and talking to healthcare teams. Some also shared what they had learned with family member and friends.
Connecting with others was an important technique for many patients, but also keeping a balance between solitary and social time was important. Connections or support group included:  family and friends, professional support, and volunteering their time.
It is important for patients to discover the best coping strategy for themselves.
There are numerous ways to cope with the daily living as a Bipolar patient.  Living a Bipolar Life is difficult, frustrating but in the long run learning ways to help maintain a healthy lifestyle contributes greatly to the success of the medication treatment.

Rapid cycling and Mixed States in Bipolar Disorder

Rapid Cycling and Mixed States
 Unstable mood and energy marks the life of a person with Bipolar Disorder.  People with such instability have big changes in their mood, or energy, or creativity over time.  They may have easy crying .  They may have extreme episodes of anger.  They can sometimes have inappropriate laughing too loud or too long.    

Mixed states include only phases of full manic and full depressive cycles as short as 4 days.  

 Other combinations of depression and hypomania, or mania exist but not the two  full phases together.  And it is possible to have cycles shorter than 4 days.

 For a lot of people, there are no phases of normal functioning (or very brief ones); instead, many people have only symptoms, varying from one kind to another.

Symptoms vary separately from one another, and at different rates. 

 Bipolar disorder is supposed to have phases lasting at least 4 days shorter than that, and it doesn't fit the official model. But the shorter versions are seen so often they have their own names.

Many people with Bipolar II do not have the intervals, in between periods of having symptoms that are often spoken about Bipolar I disorder.    

 A rapid cycling of the individual symptoms, at different rates, can create a varying pattern of nearly continuous symptoms.  Instead of having identifiable episodes, the person has almost constantly shifting symptom phases that blend into one another.

 

 

 

Mania Coping Skills In Bipolar Disorder

Mania is the high of bipolar disorder and consists of racing thoughts, impulsivity, periods of intense activity, lack of sleep, and risk-taking, with high levels of creativity.  When manic, a person may do things he would never do otherwise, things that he will later regret. In managing bipolar disorder recognizing the onset of mania and following coping strategies is critical.  
The most important strategy for dealing with mania is recognizing the symptoms of the episode in its beginning and actively working to lessen or avert a manic episode. The symptoms of a manic attack differ by person, but after having had one, the triggers will help you to know if and when a manic episode is imminent. Some techniques for avoiding a full blown manic episode include decreasing activities, avoiding excess stimulation, maximizing sleep by establishing a sleep routine and using sleeping aids if needed. Consult with your doctor regarding a possible increase in medication.
Prepare yourself for signs of mania. Have your regular medication on hand and let your support group know that you may need them to help you cope during a manic episode.

The characteristics of Bipolar Disorder, as compared to other mood disorders, is the presence of at least one manic episode. It is presumed to be a chronic condition because the vast majority of individuals who have one manic episode have additional episodes in the future. The statistics show that four episodes in ten years is an average, without preventative treatment. Every individual with bipolar disorder has a unique pattern of mood cycles, combining depression and manic episodes that is specific to that individual, but predictable once the pattern has been established. Research studies suggest a genetic influence in bipolar disorder. 

Bipolar disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and continues throughout life. It is often not recognized as a psychological problem, because it is episodic. Those who have it may suffer needlessly for years without treatment.

Effective treatment is available for bipolar disorder. Without treatment, the chronic, episodic mood swings continue.  Noncompliance with treatment is one of the most important commitments that must be made. Most individuals with bipolar disorder do not perceive their manic episodes as needing treatment, and they resist treatment. Most people feel very good during the beginning of a manic episode, and don't want it to stop. This is a serious judgment problem. As the manic episode progresses, concentration becomes difficult, thinking becomes more grandiose, and  psychotic problems may develop.  Unfortunately, the risk taking behavior usually results in consequences such as loss of a job or a relationship, running up excessive debts, or getting into legal difficulties. Many individuals with bipolar disorder abuse drugs or alcohol during manic episodes, and can develop substance abuse problems in addition to Bipolar disorder. 

Psychotic Symptoms in Bipolar Disorder

Psychotic features are frequently present during the manic phase of bipolar I disorder. Psychosis may also manifest during extreme episodes of depression.  Psychosis is a loss of contact with reality.  They are also present in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Severe episodes of mania or depression include psychotic symptoms. The most common symptoms are hallucinations hearing, seeing, or sensing the presence of things not actually there.

Hallucinations are most often associated with mental illness schizophrenia. However, they may also occur for those with bipolar disorder when either depression or mania has psychotic features.

Severe episodes of mania or depression include psychotic symptoms. The most common symptoms are hallucinations hearing, seeing, or sensing the presence of things not actually there.  Psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder reflect the extreme mood state at the time.

Delusions are false beliefs that are firmly held. They are one aspect of the psychotic features of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

In depression, the psychosis is usually consistent with their depressed state (eg, thinking they have a terminal disease and are about to die). In schizophrenia, these thoughts are more bizarre and disorganized or paranoid

 When a person is manic delusions of grandiosity, such as believing one is the President or has special powers or wealth, may arise; delusions of guilt or worthlessness, such as believing that one is ruined and penniless or has committed a terrible crime, may exist during depression. Some, during their mania, believe they are more important, gifted or capable than they really are. As a result of their inflated thoughts, they often behave in ways that are not usual for them, and represent a severe change from the non-psychotic state. For example, people during a manic psychosis might believe: they are capable of superhuman feats can fly, drive at excessive speeds, gamble excessively though they are broke.   They have God-like qualities, and begin to preach to others.

Psychosis during a manic episode is a very severe symptom and needs to be treated. Today,  drugs called atypical antipsychotics that are used to treat mania with and without psychosis.

Verbal Auditory Hallucinations

Voices are verbal auditory hallucinations thought to be owned by schizophrenics only by the general public.  In fact voices are not exclusive to schizophrenics; manic and depressed persons can hear voices.  Psychological trauma, sexually abused women, combat veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder can also have auditory hallucinations.

Voices can be caused by nonpsychiatric conditions; physical illnesses including:  brain tumors, Parkinson, migraine headaches, epilepsy, Alzheimers, and other delirium are know to cause people to hear voices.  Street drugs such as LSD, psychedelic mushrooms, ecstasy and cocaine cause hallucinations.  Alcohol especially during or after a binge can make someone experience voices.  Chronic alcoholics can and do hear voices much like schizophrenic voices so that it is difficult to tell them apart.

Some people can hear voices without any distress or impairment in functioning.  Grief hallucinations can occur when a person loses a spouse; they can hear the deceased person’s voice and some actually can hold a conversation with them.  The hallucination eases the mourning process.

Auditory hallucinations are not limited to the mentally ill.  Surveys done have shown that many people who do not suffer from mental or physical disorders can and do hear voices.  Voices are in history, in Greek literature and philosophy, Socrates heard voices of a Divine being giving guidance with everyday tasks.

Voices have been heard throughout history as muses, madmen and prophets.  It is time to rethink the experience of hearing auditory hallucinations.  The mentally ill are not the only ones to be condemned to the sounds of their minds but should be heard despite the hallucinations which need to be seen as an unusual and personal experience of life that has meaning and is not just a symptom of a disorder.

Experiences of Life

These pages were dedicated to people suffering from Bipolar Disorder only, at first, now we seem to be broadening out a little with this one; but still within the Bipolar Experience or Bipolar Living.

I have recently come across some information that explains a lot about someone who is Bipolar I with psychotic tendencies; the psychotic tendencies are verbal auditory hallucinations.  These always seemed to be a contradition to the diagnosis except now I have found the basis for that diagnosis and understand more about Bipolar Disorder and Mental illness in general. 

Most of all I have discovered a whole new realm of human life experiences and wish to share it here.  This is just the tip of the iceberg; there seems to be a vast amount of information on mental illnesses that has come to light within the past few decades since I started research on Bipolar Disorder and other mental illnesses.  So there will be new information as I find it.  This information may be about any type of disorder or condition that I am finding out about since I started writing these blogs.  I am thirsty for knowledge and wish to share it with everyone I can and help anyone I can with these humble blogs of mine. 

It will take time for me to gather all the information and I am striving to present it in a way that can be understood by the general public.  People have different experiences and they love to share it and I am just a receiver of the experiences not necessarily the person who experiences them.  Much of what I am presenting may be wrong or I may misunderstand but I am keeping it as factual as possible.

A lot of the information causes controversy as to whether it can be proven or not I unfortunately can not prove anything I am not a researcher. I am just someone seeking information to help, cause someone to think about, save someone needless worry or just to give someone the push they need to get help.

Bipolar Disorder Prognosis

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that varies from severe and long-term, or mild with infrequent episodes.  The typical patient with bipolar disorder averages 8 - 10 manic or depressive episodes over a lifetime. Some people experience more and some fewer episodes.

Research shows that bipolar disorder patients have higher death rates from suicide, diabetes and heart problems than those in the general population. Patients who get treatment experience great improvement in survival rates.

 Usually the depressive phases are more than manic phases, and the cycles of mania and depression are irregular and unpredictable. Many patients experience mixed mania, or a mixed state, in which both mania and depression coexist daily.

A smaller percentage of Bipolar patients have episodes known as rapid cycling. With this phase the manic and depressive episodes alternate at least four times a year and, in severe cases, can even progress to several cycles a day. Rapid cycling tends to occur more often in women and in those with Bipolar II.  This type of the disorder is difficult to treat since the use of antidepressants can trigger the switch to mania.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents are different than those of adults.   Mania in children is characterized by irritability. Children with bipolar depression are angry and restless, and may have  mood and behavioral disorders such as anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder.  It is still unknown  if childhood bipolar disorder persists into adulthood.

 The prognosis for Bipolar disorder depends on the person it must be managed carefully at all times. Episodes of mania and depression may recur throughout the person's life but with treatment  the severity and duration of episodes can be reduced. Early treatment is always more effective than treatment later in an episode.  A small number of people are resistant to all treatment. People with Bipolar II generally have a better prognosis than those with Bipolar I.

Factors considered important in determining the prognosis of patients with bipolar disorder include the time between the onset of the symptoms and the beginning of drug therapy, presence or absence of psychotic features, indications of rapid-cycling, and presence of risk factors such as drug or alcohol dependency.

People with bipolar disorder can lead a healthy and productive life with treatment and compliance with the treatment program. Without treatment, bipolar disorder worsens with more frequent episodes of mania and depression which become more severe and intense. Drugs and psychotherapy are the most effective treatments. Medications may need to be adjusted in some people more frequently than in others.  Patients need to be vigilant for early warning signs of relapse and seeking help as quickly as possible.

Bipolar Disorder and Women

Bipolar Disorder also called Manic-Depression is a serious mental illness that causes shifts in moods.  Different from normal ups and downs it affects a person’s energy and ability to function.  The symptoms of Bipolar Disorder can be severe.  People with Bipolar Disorder experience highs and lows (mania and depression).  Bipolar Disorder occurs equally between men and women, however, women usually have more frequent changes in moods called rapid cycling. Women are diagnosed with having Bipolar II Disorder more often then men.

Bipolar Disorder is a fairly common illness and develops in late adolescence and early adulthood.  It can be treated effectively and people can lead productive lives with early intervention.

Bipolar Disorder is a chronic illness and has to be managed throughout a person’s life but there can be changes in their mood swings due to age and hormonal changes and the illness may become worse.

Menopause is a normal process of reproductive aging known as perimenopause which for most women stars around the age of 40.  The ovaries start to produce less estrogen and progesterone.  Many women may experience symptoms of menopause which can include mood swings.  These mood swings may be related to decreasing levels of estrogen.

Bipolar symptoms can increase in women with Bipolar Disorder they can become worse and medications that once worked cease to be as effective in controlling them.

Additional life experiences can also make Bipolar Disorder worse such as sexuality, aging, children leaving home.

Distinguishing menopausal symptoms and worsening of Bipolar Disorder may take blood tests to check hormone levels.  Often a low dose of oral contraceptives can stabilize hormone levels and may control the mood swings.

Any change in mood swings should be communicated to your doctor so that interventions, additional medications can stop a minor mood swing from becoming a major problem.

It is important to have a complete physical to determine if it is a medical problem or a sign of your Bipolar Disorder getting worse.

Women of menopausal age with Bipolar Disorder should keep in close contact with their doctor and consider individual or group therapy to help to deal with the changes in their bodies which may interfere with their mood swings.  Any changes in physical conditions should be monitored to decrease the chances of a major episode.

Medications for Bipolar Disorder and their Side Effects

As a Bipolar you will have to have infinite patience, determination and a total commitment to medication.  It is the most effective way to recover from Bipolar Disorder.  The earlier medication is started the sooner you will be able to continue with your life with a fewer chances of relapses.  Not all people respond to medication alone; sometimes psychotherapy is needed.  But for a chance at full recovery medication is the only answer.     Do research  on the  medication that is prescribed; keep track of side effects, moods, and physical changes in your body.  You are ultimately in charge of Bipolar Disorder and your medication. Do not let it be in charge of you.

Medication is the most effective treatment available for Bipolar Disorder; nothing is perfect, and for most people bipolar medications work well.  For others it can be very difficult.  Side effects are the number one reason people with Bipolar Disorder stop taking their medications. And they can cause many people to give up on medications altogether. Before finding the right one or the right combination that works there is trial and error which can be frustrating. It may take a long time, but most people eventually do discover medications they can tolerate with few side effects and that can control their mood swings.

When treating Bipolar Disorder you have to  find the right drug or combination of drugs for each symptom. There are drugs for mania and psychosis, depression and anxiety, and some drugs that help with all these symptoms.  There is no strict rule a person may need only one drug, or they may need more than one. There may be no side effects , or there may be many side effects.  Finding the right combination of medications and the right doses that work for you can take months to years. For the very rare there is no complete absence of all symptoms and that is where therapy comes into play.

There are medications that are called Mood Stabilizers these include Lithium, Depakote (divalproex), Tegretol (carbamazepine) and Lamictal (lamotrigine).  Lithium, Depakote and Tegretol are antimanic drugs, while Lamictal is used for bipolar depression.  You may take multiple drugs at once, such as a combination of Lithium for bipolar mania and Lamictal for bipolar depression.

Mood stabilizers have various  possible side effects, but they are the most effective antimanic drugs , which is why most people with Bipolar I need to remain on mood stabilizers. Lithium is often prescribed and is an excellent drug when it works. Common Lithium side effects include tremors, excessive thirst. Toxicity can also lead to kidney problems, and so monitoring Lithium blood levels is needed. The most common side effects of Depakote and Tegretol are weight gain, headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, eye problems and unsteadiness.

 Lamictal side effects include shortness of breath, jerky body movements, itching and a skin rash. There are two kinds of rashes associated with Lamictal. One is benign the other is very serious. Treatment must be stopped if the second one occurs.  Lamcital does not cause weight gain and the side effects are reduced in time.

Older antipsychotics are Thorazine (chlorpromazine), Haldol (haloperidol) and Trilifon (perphenazine). These were effective but caused a  motor side effect called tardive dyskinesia. The newer antipsychotics are  Clozaril (clozapine), Zyprexa (olanzapine), Seroquel (quetiapine), Risperdal (risperidone), Geodon (Ziprasidone) and Abilify (aripiprazole).

Antipsychotics are used to treat psychosis, prevent mania and sometimes treat depression. Side effects that may occur are usually rapid weight gain, especially around the stomach, lethargy, restlessness, dulled senses, tremors, impaired thinking, slow speech, shuffling the feet, and concentration problems.  Clorazil, Zyprexa and Seroquel can cause what is called metabolic syndrome, a condition that leads to possible diabetes, heart disease and stroke. The antipsychotics with the lowest risk of metabolic syndrome are Abilify and Geodon. Risperdal.

These potential side effects can be very strong, although antipsychotics medications can give a persona second chance to work and function in society. If you have psychosis and/or full blown mania antipsychotics should be given multiple trials.  The treatment is to start with low doses and then go up as needed.  Many people eventually find the right antipsychotic with few side effects.

 Antidepressants are many Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Wellbutrin (bupropion), Effexor (venlafaxine), Pristiq (desvenlafaxine), Celexa (citalopram), Cymbalta (duloxetine), Lexapro (escitalopram),  These drugs are extremely effective for depression treatment in people with bipolar disorder they have a high risk of inducing mania. Antidepressants can lead to rapid cycling and severe mania in people with bipolar disorder. They can be used in conjunction with other mood stabilizers. Common antidepressant side effects include agitation, weight loss or weight gain, headache, stomach upset, sexual side effects, loss of appetite, leg-shaking, sleepiness, and suicidal tendencies.

Some of the medications used are different and are called anti anxiety drugs some are Ativan (lorazepam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam). Anti anxiety medications can be addictive; but considering many people with bipolar disorder have anxiety and sleep problems, they should not be ruled out as part of treatment.  Common benzodiazepine side effects include tiredness, memory loss, trouble concentrating, excessive sleepiness and lack of coordination. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can also cause very serious effects.

Treatment with medications has one goal in mind to help the person return to their lives as with the highest ability of functioning as possible.  Medications can and do work and although the possible side effects can range from annoying to life threatening medications are truly the only option for recovery for the Bipolar patient.

Medications For Bipolar Disorder

If you have Bipolar Disorder, you will need medication.  You will probably need bipolar medication for the rest of your life.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness. It's not something you can cure with willpower. Taking medication for Bipolar Disorder is just like taking medication for diabetes or heart disease.

Along with medication, psychotherapy, can be an important part of treatment for bipolar disorder. During therapy, you can discuss feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that cause you problems. Psychotherapy can help you understand and control any problems that hurt your ability to function well in life. It can help you  to stay on your medication.  There are different types of therapy which are used Behavioral Therapy focuses on behaviors that decrease stress.  Cognitive therapy. This type of approach involves learning to identify and modify the patterns of thinking that accompany mood shifts.  Interpersonal therapy. This involves relationships and aims to reduce strains that the illness may place upon them.  Social therapy. This helps you develop and maintain daily routines.

Doctors use a number of different types of drugs to treat bipolar disorder.  Treatment for bipolar mania may include lithium, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines.   Many people who have bipolar disorder keep taking these medications for years after their last episode to stay healthy. This is   called maintenance therapy for bipolar disorder. 

A mood-stabilizing medication works on improving mood, social interactions, and behavior. Mood stabilizers are effective in the treatment and prevention of bipolar mood swings.  A mood stabilizing medication works on improving mood, social interactions, and behavior. Mood stabilizers are effective in the treatment and prevention of episodes of lows of depression and the highs of mania.

The drug therapy of choice for bipolar patients with severe mania or mixed episodes is an antipsychotic medication combined with either Lithium or the anticonvulsant Depakote.

Lithium is one of the oldest and cheapest mood-stabilizing mediations for bipolar disorder. Lithium is a  natural salt available under the generic names of lithium carbonate and lithium citrate. Findings show that lithium is effective in reducing symptoms and frequency of episodes of bipolar disorder. In addition, studies show that lithium effectively reduces the risk of suicide.  If you take lithium, you need to have regular blood levels of the drug monitored by your physician, as the medication dosage needs to be established from person to person.

Anticonvulsants offer more treatment options for those with bipolar disorder.  Anticonvulsants may be combined with lithium or with other anticonvulsants targeting different symptoms.Some commonly used anticonvulsants include Lamictal, Depakote, Tegretol, and Trileptal

All of these drugs have been tested bith Bipolar Patients and show that the benefits are dramatic when it comes to recovery from the devastating mood swings of Bipolars.  It takes time for the medication to work and there may have to be a trial and error in attempting to control the mood swings but close contact with your psychotherapist and doctor makes taking medication as simple as possible..

The importance of finding the right medication and the right doseage with the fewest side effects is easier and with the newer medications safer to help control Bipolar Disorder.

Bipolar Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, Management

Bipolar Disorder is a serious mental illness that at the present time has no cure.  We all suffer from ups and downs; days when we are low or feeling happy but for bipolar these feelings are disturbingly acute and recurring.  For the depressed Bipolar there sometimes seems to be no other option than to try to take their own life.  On the flip side of the coin the euphoria is so intense that they can have delusions, hallucinations and threatening life problems. 

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can endanger your job and school performance, damage your relationships, and disrupt daily life. And although bipolar disorder is treatable, many people don’t recognize the warning signs and get help. Since bipolar disorder tends to worsen without treatment, it’s important to learn what the symptoms are.  Control can only come with treatment and spotting the danger signs when in the early stages is the only way to treat it and recover.  There are the highs of mania on one extreme, to the lows of depression on the other.  Two poles whence the term bipolar.  The cycles of bipolar disorder last for days, weeks, or months. And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they interfere with your ability to function.

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During a manic episode, a person might quit a job, spend countless money on credit cards, and feel rested after sleeping two hours. During a depressive episode, they are too tired to get out of bed and full of dejection and hopelessness over being unemployed and in debt.

The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t completely understood, but it often runs in families. The first manic or depressive episode of bipolar disorder usually occurs in early adulthood. The symptoms can be decieving, so many people with bipolar disorder are not diagnosed or misdiagnosed. But with proper treatment and support, you can lead a qualitative life.

Myth: People with bipolar disorder can’t get better or lead a normal life.

 Many people with bipolar disorder have successful careers, happy family lives, and satisfying relationships. Living with bipolar disorder is challenging. But with treatment, healthy coping skills, and a solid support system, you can manage your symptoms.

 Some people alternate between episodes of mania and depression, but most are depressed more than they are manic. Mania may also be so mild that it goes unrecognized called hypomania. People with bipolar disorder can go for long stretches without symptoms.  The average is 10-15 episodes a lifetime.

 Bipolar disorder also affects your energy level, judgment, memory, concentration, appetite, sleep patterns, sex drive, and self-esteem. Bipolar disorder can coexist with anxiety, substance abuse, and health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, migraines, and high blood pressure.

 Medication is the first step of bipolar disorder treatment, therapy and self-help strategies also play important roles. You can help control your symptoms by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating right, monitoring your moods, keeping stress to a minimum, and having supportive people to assist you when needed.

Bipolar symptoms vary in different people. The symptoms pattern, severity, and frequency. Some people are experience just depression, while others alternate equally between the two types of episodes. Some have frequent mood upheavals, while others show signs and symptoms only a few times over a lifetime.

In Bipolar Disorder there are: mania, hypomania, depression, and mixed episodes. Each type of bipolar disorder mood episode has its own set of symptoms.

In the manic phase of bipolar disorder, feelings of heightened energy, creativity, and euphoria are common. People experiencing a manic episode often talk continiouslly, sleep very little, and are hyperactive. They may also feel all-powerful, invincible, or destined for greatness; called delusions of grandeur.

  In the beginning, mania feels good, but it has a tendency to get out of control. People often behave recklessly during a manic episode: spending savings, engaging in inappropriate sexual activity, or making foolish business investments. They may also become angry, irritable, and aggressive when others don’t go along with their plans, and with no regard to other people’s opinion of their behavior. Some people can become delusional or start hearing voices.

Hypomania is a less severe form of mania. In a hypomanic state  the person feels euphoric, energetic, and productive, but they are able to carry on with their day-to-day lives and they never lose touch with reality. To others, it may seem as if people with hypomania are merely in an unusually good mood.  Hypomania can cause bad decisions effecting relationships, careers, and reputations. Hypomania can often turn  into full-blown mania and be followed by a major depressive episode.

 Certain symptoms are more common in bipolar depression than in regular depression.  Bipolar depression signs are usually  irritability, guilt, unpredictable mood swings, and feelings of restlessness. People with bipolar depression also move and speak slowly, sleep a lot, and gain weight.  Bipolar depression can develop into psychotic depression; with hallucinations and loss of touch with reality.  The person can experience major disability in work and social functioning.

A mixed episode of bipolar disorder features symptoms of both mania or hypomania and depression. Common signs of a mixed episode are depression with agitation, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, distractibility, and racing thoughts.  The person is a high risk for suicide because of the high energy and low mood.

There are 3 different types of Bipolar Disorder:  Bipolar I Disorder; mania or a mixed episode The classic form of the illness, characterized by at least one manic episode or mixed episode.  Bipolar II Disorder hypomania and depression; the person doesn’t experience fullblown manic episodes. There are episodes of hypomania and severe depression. Cyclothymia; hypomania and mild depression; a milder form of bipolar disorder. It consists of cyclical mood swings which are less severe than fullblown mania or depression.

 Living with untreated bipolar disorder can lead to problems in everything from your career to your relationships to your health. Diagnosing the problem as early as possible and getting into treatment can help prevent these complications. Seek out help if you see signs of Bipolar Disorder in yourself or someone else.

Bipolar disorder requires long-term treatment. Since bipolar disorder is a chronic, recurring illness, it’s important to continue treatment even when you’re feeling better. Most people with bipolar disorder need medication to prevent new episodes and stay symptom free.

There is more to treatment than medication. The most effective treatment strategy for bipolar disorder involves a combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support.

 Medication need to be closely monitored. A psychiatrist can help you manage your symptoms, side effects of the medications and your overall mental health.  A therapist can help with leaning coping skills for living with Bipolar Disorder.  it is a lifetime commitment to making yourself healthy and finding recovery of your life.

Bipolar disorder has no single cause. It appears that certain people are genetically predisposed to bipolar disorder. Yet not everyone with the genetic background develops the illness.

 In order to successfully manage bipolar disorder, you have to make the right choices. Your lifestyle and daily habits have a significant impact on your moods.  With treatment there is the chance for recovery.

Medications For Bipolar Disorder

If you have bipolar disorder, taking medication is the answer to reducing the frequency and severity of mood episodes, but it may not the only treatment option. Bipolar medications are very effective when used with therapy and healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and developing a social support system. These factors play an important role in managing symptoms of mania and depression for some people.

Finding the right drug or drug combination can take time, so it’s important to work closely with your doctor and therapist. It’s also important to re-evaluate your medication frequently as the optimum dose may change over time as you adopt a healthier lifestyle.

If you have bipolar disorder, medication will be the foundation of your treatment plan. Medication can bring mania and depression under control and prevent relapse once your mood has stabilized. Long-term medication treatment especially with unpleasant side effects is necessary and since Bipolar Disorder is biological the optimum treatment..  A diabetic needs to take insulin in order to stay healthy taking medication for bipolar disorder will help you maintain a stable mood.

However, you cannot expect medication alone to solve all your problems. There are other options you can take to manage your symptoms and reduce the amount of medication required. Medication is most effective when used in combination with other bipolar disorder treatments, including therapy, self-help coping strategies, and healthy lifestyle.

 The treatment for bipolar depression is different than for regular depression.  Antidepressants can actually trigger a manic episode and rapid cycling. Mood stabilizers are tried first and an antidepressant may be added to them.

Your lifestyle has an effect on your symptoms. If you make healthy choices, you may be able to reduce the amount of medication you need.  Natural mood stabilizers that don’t require a prescription include keeping a sleep schedule, exercising regularly, practicing relaxation techniques, and developing a solid support system.

Research shows that therapy is beneficial and Bipolars who take medication recover much faster and control their moods better if they also get therapy. Therapy gives you the skills to cope with life's difficulties, monitor your progress, and deal with the problems bipolar disorder is causing in your personal and professional life.

Bipolar Disorder is a congenital and having a relapse is very high if you stop taking your medication. Suddenly stopping medication is especially dangerous. Talk to your doctor before you make any changes. Your doctor can help you make any adjustments if you feel you no longer need medication.  That just shows that the medication is effective and is working.

It can take a while to find the right medication and dose. Everyone responds to medication differently, so you may have to try several drugs before you find the one that works for you. What works for one persons body chemistry may not work for you.

Once you've discovered the right bipolar disorder drug or combination of drugs, it may still take time to find the optimal dose. In the case of mood stabilizing medications such as lithium, there is a small difference between a beneficial dose and a toxic dose.  Take medication exactly as prescribed.   Continue taking your medication even after you feel better. Frequent office visits to re-evaluate your medication needs and monitoring of symptoms and side effects will have to be made.  When you start a new medication learn how and when to take it.  Report any change in your medication situation, such as pregnancy.

You may be tempted to stop taking medication if you're experiencing side effects. Or  you may want to stop taking your pills because you feel much better and don't think you need them anymore.  Stopping maintenance medication comes with a high risk of relapse.

 Talk to your doctor before you make any medication changes. If you don't like the way the drug makes you feel or if it's not working, there are other options.

Keep track any side effects you experience. When they occur, and how bad they are.  Your doctor may have suggestions for minimizing the side effects. If side effects are severe, your doctor may switch you to another drug or change the dose.

Always check for drug interactions before taking another prescription medication, over-the-counter drug, or herbal supplement. Drug interactions can cause side effects or make your bipolar disorder medication less effective.   Certain foods and beverage can also cause problems.

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Mood stabilizers are medications that help control the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. They are treatment, both for mania and depression. Lithium is the oldest and most well-known mood stabilizer. It is highly effective for treating mania.

Lithium can also help bipolar depression. It is not as effective for mixed episodes or rapid cycling forms of bipolar disorder. Lithium takes from one to two weeks to reach its full effect.

If you take lithium, it’s important to have regular blood tests to make sure your dose is in the effective range. Doses that are too high can be toxic.

It is important to get blood tests every two to three months, since many things can cause your lithium levels to change. Even taking a different brand of lithium can lead to different blood levels. Make sure that you go for the blood tests whenever they are needed.

Anticonvulsants are used in the treatment of bipolar disorder as mood stabilizers. Originally developed for the treatment of epilepsy, they have been shown to relieve the symptoms of mania and reduce mood swings.

The new focus in bipolar depression treatment is on optimizing the dose of mood stabilizers. If you can stop your mood cycling, you might stop having depressive episodes entirely. If you are able to stop the mood cycling, but symptoms of depression remain, the following medications may help:Lamictal (lamotrigine) Seroquel (quetiapine) Zyprexa (olanzapine)

The new Atypical antipsychotics have been shown to help Bipolar I Disorder which has psychotic tendencies.  These medications have side effects which should be considered before starting any medication regimen.  Only you and your doctor can decide on the benefits of medication on your Bipolar Disorder

For the Bipolar patient medication is the best treatment to stop the debilitating moodswings but with newer medications being discovered everyday the person should find relief in a short amount of time with little or no side effects.  Medication is lifelong but the benefits of having  symptoms for life or managing them with medcation sometimes outweighs the risks.