The Journey from the Unknown bywena: The Journey from the Unknown bywena: The Allure of the World of Mythology

The Journey from the Unknown bywena: The Journey from the Unknown bywena: The Allure of the World of Mythology

Anxiety and Bipolar Disorders

Most people feel anxious at times and have their ups and downs. It is natural for a mood to change or anxiety level to rise when a stressful event occurs. But some people experience feelings of anxiety or depression or experience mood swings that are so severe and that they interfere with personal relationships, job responsibilities, and daily functioning. These people may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, or both.

Someone with an anxiety disorder may also suffer from bipolar disorder. Many people with bipolar disorder will suffer from at least one anxiety disorder at some point. The disorders are treatable separately and
together.


Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, which causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, and ability to function.
The mood episodes associated with the disorder persist from days to weeks or longer, and can be dramatic, with periods of being overly highor irritable to periods of persistent sadness and hopelessness.
Severe changes in behavior go along with the mood changes. These episodes of mania and depression, are distinct episodes recurring over time, or they may occur together in a mixed state. Often people with bipolar disorder experience periods of normal mood in between mood episodes.

These disorders are treatable on even if they  coexist and the chances for a complete recovery is possible.  It is not necessary to suffer and with medications and the correct diagnosis the prognosis for anxiety disorder and or Bipolar disorder is promising.

Natural Remedies for Depression and Bipolar Disorder

If you are considering taking a natural or vitamin supplement to treat Bipolar Disorder or Depression or to reduce the symptoms these common uses and side effects may be useful.

Many studies are being done with natural remedies for Depression and Bipolar disorder.  Some of these show promising results and when used either in combination with traditional medications there may be an improvement of the symptoms of these disorders.  

The role of natural supplements in the treatment of Bipolar disorder and Depression is being investigated presently and although there the treatment is just being discovered the outlook looks promosing. People with Bipolar disorder and depression, with the use of herbs, vitamins and supplements, may find some help and relief. Natural therapy using nutritional supplements are being researched to find whether or not these treatments are effective in the reduction of symptoms and/or recovery from these serious mental disorders.

Always consult your doctor before using any of these treatments.  In addition to these facts there is research being done on the relationship of smoking with people with Bipolar disorder.  People who smoke and have Bipolar disorder seem to have a higher risk of suicide attempts and suicidal behavior. 

People with Bipolar disorder and depression, with the use of herbs, vitamins and supplements, may find some help and relief. Natural therapy using nutritional supplements are being researched to find whether or not these treatments are effective in the reduction of symptoms and/or recovery from these serious mental disorders.

Omega-3 fatty acids  The symptoms of Bipolar disorder the cycling from depression and mania have been linked possible to the higher ammounts of omega-3 fatty acids and the shortages.  Suppliments may help decrease the symptoms.  Each person differs so that it is know how much is required or what doses  are required to be proven beneficial

Exercise has been proven to be one of the best natural remedies for depression and can improve mood.Aerobic exercise can release mood elavating chemical in the brain while decreasing stress. A quick walk in the morning is a great way of beating the blues.

Light Therapy is very effective in relieving the symptoms of SAD disorder which occurs during the changes of the seasons. Exposure to light helps the sleep wake cycle and enables it to work properly. Serotin a chemical which influences the mood is released during morning hours with the coming of light. Serotin levels can drop during the winter months when there is less sunlight. Waling in the morning can raise the serotin levels. There are special lights which can be found to simulate natural sunlight studies have found that they can be effective in alieviating the symptoms of depression.When used for 20-30 minutes a day positive results can be found.

St. John's Wort has been used as natural medicine as a remidy for sadness nervousnessm and poor sleep. The results of 20 studies has found that St. John's wort is as effective as antidepressants with patients with mild depression with fewer side effects. Although it has been useful in mild depression it does not seem to be of use with major clinical depression. St. John's Wort should not be used in conjunction with other prescription or over the counter medications. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing with children people with Bipolar disorder, kicney, liver disease.

SAM-e is a chemical found in the human body naturally and is believed to increase the level of seritin and dopamine in the brain. SAM-e is available as a supplement in health stores and drug stores. It is more expensive than other supplements and does have some side effects such as nausea and constipation. It is still believed to have positive effects on depression.

5HTP is naturally produced in the body and \helps make serotonin, however, the evidence that shows that it theorectically should increase the serotionin levels it has not been proven to do so. It should not be combined with antidepressants also the safety of 5-HTP has not been determined.

Diet plays a large part in maintaining balace of mood. The reduction of sugar and avoiding caffine and alchohol can be beneficial. Although sweets and caffine boots energy and alchohol may relax us the effects are not long lasting and can worsen mood swings, anxiety and insomnia. When these drugs are avoided the stability of mood are enhanced.

Vitamin B6 produces mood enhancer of the transmitters serotonin and dopamine. B6 vitamin deficiency is not common taking oral contraceptives and certain drugs may occur.

Magnesium incorporated into the diet also aids in the production of serotonin. Sources of magnesium are beans, nuts, whole grains and green vegetables. Stress depletes magnesium in the body and is needed for the production of serotonin.

St John's Wort and Depression

St John's Wort is an herb which is commonly know to treat some forms of depression. The mild forms of depression are thought to be alleviated by supplementing your diet with the herb which is distributed in the form of pills, liquid or ground form as a tea.

In different parts of the world it is used as a herbal treatment for depression usually in the case of mild depression in children and teenagers.

St John's Wort has at times been shown to be as effective as antidepressants and has fewer side effects. St John's Wort dies not appear to be useful in certain chronic forms of depression.

Conflicting reports on the use in patients with major depression have been found and it is not seen to be as effective as a traditional antidepressants.

There have been reports of some side effects, stomach irritation, dizziness, confusion, fatigue and excess sedation. There have been no overdoses. In schizophrenic patients it it does cause a worsening to psychosis.

There are numerous medications which different interactions including serious, life threatening interactions In animals there are reports of serious side effects with the ingestion of St Johns Wort including Foot and Mouth disease.

The benefits of St John's Wort needs further studies and at the present time such studies are being done.

If the beneficial effects of St John's Wort can be found St John's Wort will prove to be an affordable asset to medication which would make the prognosis for depressed patients who suffer from depression.  

Self Esteem and Depression

Everyone has one of the I never should have gotten out of bed days. When you find yourself at the far end of an emotional spectrum. When you lose your inner balance and find that you cannot return to it that is the time to take action. Most people feel bad about themselves from time to time. Low self esteem can be triggered by an incident in the recent past or by the judgment which you may have of yourself. You deserve to feel good about yourself. It is not easy when you are under the stress if having symptoms that are difficult or impossible to manage or when you have a disability. The episodes in life draw you into a downward spiral leading to lower and lower self esteem. The negative self thoughts make you feel so bad about yourself and you may do something that could only make you feel even worse.

Low self esteem is a symptom of depression.

Manic episodes produce irrational ideas which seem to be absolutely possible and will lead to great success and rewards and the contagious optimism where life is limitless and so along with it

your energy. Then a clearer picture of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life and those around you shows the devastating crash of depression which the maxed out credit cards can not fix.

Suddenly you find yourself at the point of the realization that life is not all that rosy and the nightmare will continue to pursue you until you fear your own self. he past seems to loam over your head and you reach the end of the infectious high and sink deeper and deeper into a depressive state. All seems lost and hopeless, bleak and dismal. You look at the past few days, weeks, months of the high and you see that it was filled with bad decisions and expectations. You wonder how you ever thought of yourself as anything other than a loser, a person who could never and would never do anything productive and if it was it would be mediocre and not even impress your own mother. Life was filled with half started attempts at things that you were never able to achieve or even worthy of achieving. You think of your High School prom and how you were never cheerleader material, never the valedictorian of your class, never an honor student. Incapable of anything worthwhile you wonder where life will lead you and why.

Before you go off the deep end losing all to the depression.

Think of the chocolate cakes that you consumed, all the cups of dark and sweet coffee that you deluged your body with craving quarts of ice cream and candy.

Processed sugar is addictive and contributes to depression

Junk food, foods containing a lot of sugar need to be avoided. Taking good care of yourself and working at taking good care of yourself will make you feel better about yourself. Eat healthy vegetables and fruit; whole grain foods and protein foods can lift your self esteem in time when added to a constructive exercise routine. Do things that make use of your talents and abilities it may be studying a language, playing an instrument creativity builds self confidence and thereby lifting a sagging self esteem. One way to boost your self esteem is learn something new or improve your skills at something you may already do.

Pay attention to your own needs and wants; get in tune with your body if you are tired of sitting stand for a while or take a short walk, a moving body helps to make you feel better and improves you opinion of yourself. Make a point of treating yourself well everyday.

There are probably a lot of negative messages passing through your mind about yourself. Many people have these thoughts, these are learned messages many come from prejudice and the stigma about mental disorders in our society. These negative thoughts make you feel bad about yourself and contribute to low self esteem. Become aware of the negative messages and develop positive statements to replace them.

Self esteem is like Bipolar disorder in that what goes down can go up and learning to balance your self esteem leads to a balance in your life overall. Lifting self esteem gives you the confidence to actively approach your mental disorder and face it in an objective and hopeful way. To those struggling with bipolar disorder or any other mental disorder the road to recovery need not be hopeless the chances that a medication treatment is positive and the prognosis is becoming better as the new medications are discovered. Life with a mental disorder need not be an end to life but can be the beginning of a new way of living.

Testing your self worth

I got in after a long day at the Library and I just sat at the computer to relax for a while. Of course I was thinking of a new topic to write about and decided to randomly put some questions on Google to see what I could learn about.  I idly put the question of testing your self worth into the browser and came across this article.  It is a test of your own self worth and proves to be interesting I decided to put it into this blog and hope to hear what you think of this test.  Accurate, enlightening or just something to think about incorporating into your assessment of your disorder or someone you may know.  I hope to receive comments on this site or just to see the traffic it brings I think that it does have some value.

Self-Esteem Test - Self Tests by Psychology Today

psychologytoday.tests.psychtests.com/take_test.php?idRegTest=3207

Cycles of Insanity by wena: From the Reality of Unreality

Cycles of Insanity by wena: From the Reality of Unreality

Dare We Hope?

Is there a place in this world of ours for an unstable psychotic Bipolar?   When he voices and pressure of speech become unbearable or the depth of depression become more than just a low and your perception of life unravels all that you have to achieve.  When you question the reality of what you are experiencing, felling and actual doing.


These uncontrollable and painful question are asked by some of us who are not stabilized by medications and puzzle the doctors .  What should we try next an addition to the medication a reduction when the dose is too high or just try and comfort our tortured soul and help us to manage our highs and lows the best we can.


My story is short and at the point where I cannot trust my own mind and I wonder what happens next.  Where will my that lead me?  These blogs are the only thing in my life that I can control yet when the last article is written and the pageviews fall will I still be at peace?  Will the relentless moodswings subside or will I become worse with the passing of time?


There is no answer for me 


Dare I hope

The Effectiveness of Newer Medications in the Treatment of Psychosis

 New antipsychotic drugs known as atypical antipsychotics have been used since 1990and have been shown to be more effective than older antipsychotics, but the possibility of severe side effects still exist.  One of these side effects is a loss of the white blood cells and requires monitoring with blood tests every one or two weeks.

Newer antipsychotic drugs are safer with lower incidences of movement related side effects, known as tardive dyskinesia and they do not have the same risk of lowering the white blood cells. Many of the atypical antipsychotics can cause side effects such as weight gain; people with schizophrenia are often overweight or obese. Obesity increases these patients’ risk for cardiovascular disease. Excessive weight and obesity can have important effects on an individual’s adjustment in the community, inability to participate in rehabilitation and are less likely to participate in a treatment plan along with poor self-image.

The increasing reports of Diabetes in people with schizophrenia are more than twice higher than in the general population. There have been numerous case reports, studies, and investigations into this disease to show that certain of these medications may be associated with a greater risk of Diabetes than others.

The older antipsychotic drugs are effective in treating some symptoms of schizophrenia, hallucinations and delusions; however these drugs may not be as helpful with other symptoms commonly experienced such as reduced motivation and flattened affect or emotional expressiveness. The older antipsychotics medicines like Haldol or Thorazine may even mimic the side effects that are similar to the symptoms of this disorder. It has been seen that lowering the dose may reduce these side effects; the newer medicines have been shown to be less likely to cause this problem.

The use if these medications that are highly effective in the treatment of psychosis the  benefits of such medications still has to investigated to find he best treatment plan with the least chance of side effects. 

Atypical Antipsychotic

 New antipsychotic drugs known as atypical antipsychotics have been used since 1990and have been shown to be more effective than older antipsychotics, but the possibility of severe side effects still exist.  One of these side effects is a loss of the white blood cells and requires monitoring with blood tests every one or two weeks.

Newer antipsychotic drugs are safer with lower incidences of movement related side effects, known as tardive dyskinesia and they do not have the same risk of lowering the white blood cells. Many of the atypical antipsychotics can cause side effects such as weight gain; people with schizophrenia are often overweight or obese. Obesity increases these patients’ risk for cardiovascular disease. Excessive weight and obesity can have important effects on an individual’s adjustment in the community, inability to participate in rehabilitation and are less likely to participate in a treatment plan along with poor self-image.

The increasing reports of Diabetes in people with schizophrenia are more than twice higher than in the general population. There have been numerous case reports, studies, and investigations into this disease to show that certain of these medications may be associated with a greater risk of Diabetes than others.

 The older antipsychotic drugs are effective in treating some symptoms of schizophrenia, hallucinations and delusions; however these drugs may not be as helpful with other symptoms commonly experienced such as reduced motivation and flattened affect or emotional expressiveness. The older antipsychotics medicines like Haldol or Thorazine may even mimic the side effects that are similar to the symptoms of this disorder. It has been seen that lowering the dose may reduce these side effects; the newer medicines have been shown to be less likely to cause this problem.

The use if these medications that are highly effective in the treatment of psychosis the  benefits of such medications still has to investigated to find he best treatment plan with the least chance of side effects.

We are People with a mental Illness

We are what we are a person we differ from the majority of the population we at times have difficulties but then so do you.  We are no different when it comes to intelligence or violent behavior. We differ in only in the unplanned and uncontrollable behavior and thoughts. When it comes to creativity and productivity we may even surpass the average PERSON.  We do not plan or desire to have what is considered to be a defect or flaw in us. There is no choice or decision in having a mental disorder.  We are the same as a person with a major physical condition.

Throughout the ages there has been much hidden about the mentally ill.  We have been ridiculed, punished and hidden But we are a major part of society We are real and even though society tries to suppress and conceal the fat that we are life in the world we do exist in the families in the political offices and although we may not make up  the larger part of mankind we are living among the peoples of the world

Why condemn the one who can be your on family member maybe your mother or  father we ask only to be given the basic rights and to live a full life and not be condemned for something  that is not in our power to control and may be a result of genetic history and why do you place he blame on us A gift from God at times for some of a curse from the Devil at others We are real and we try to coexist in the world around us and some of us can reach the potential of  n average person We have our limitations but then most people do

All that we ask for is empathy, an understanding and for not to be feared by others.  

Love to Hate: Love to Hate: Master of Irony: I'm ok

Love to Hate: Love to Hate: Master of Irony: I'm ok

I am going to post some interesting and hopefully useful sites which have personal experiences with being Bipolar Hopefully the can be of use to the readers of my blogs

Mental Health Realities: The Fine Line Between Being Over ...

mentalhealthrealities.blogspot.com/.../fine-line-between-being-over-...

Jul 15, 2011 – So there is a fine line we tread on, between being under-medicated, finding the right balance, and being over-medicated. It often takes a long ...

<a title="Free Backlinks" href="http://freebacklinks.host22.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://freebacklinks.host22.com/freebacklinks.gif" alt="Free Backlinks" border="0" /></a>

This is a very informative and helpful website that I was fortunate to find.  

New NCCBH 'Health Is Mental' Infographic*–and Some Ideas for ...

candidaabrahamson.wordpress.com/.../see-new-nami-health-is-...

HealthyPlace Mental Health Blogs

www.healthyplace.com/blogs

If anyone is interested in the "Diary" type blog there are some on the internet that run along that theme some are on tumblir

This Is Bipolar - Tumblr

thisisbipolar.tumblr.com/

Bipolar Planet

bipolar-planet.blogspot.com/

Love to Hate: Bipolar thinking: Ramble On

Love to Hate: Bipolar thinking: Ramble On

Love to Hate

bywena

Famous people with Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder, or manic depression, is a serious mental illness that causes swings in a person’s mood, energy and ability to function. Approximately 5 million Americans are diagnosed as having bipolar disorder. Some of the most famous celebrities in our society have confessed to having bipolar disorder.

The symptoms of bipolar disorder are more severe than the usual ups and downs that people experience. People with bipolar disorder, have a basic overall feeling, or mood, which alternates between episodes of mania and depression that can last from days to weeks to months.

Some of the symptoms exhibited during manic episodes are: an extremely elated, happy mood or an irritable, angry mood; increased physical and mental activity and energy; racing thoughts; increased talking, more rapid speech than normal; ambitious, often grandiose plans ;risk taking; impulsive activity such as spending sprees, sexual indiscretion, and alcohol abuse; decreased sleep without experiencing fatigue

Some of the symptoms exhibited during depressive episodes are: loss of energy; prolonged sadness; decreased activity and energy; restlessness and irritability; inability to concentrate or make decisions; increased feelings of worry and anxiety; loss of  interest or participation in, and less enjoyment of activities normally enjoyed; feelings of guilt and hopelessness; thoughts of suicide; change in appetite ( eating more or eating less); change in sleep habits (either sleeping more or sleeping less)

Some famous people who have either disclosed to having bipolar disorder or have displayed symptoms of bipolar disorder but remain undiagnosed.

Actor Richard Dreyfuss. Dreyfuss admits that he has a bipolar disorder; he publically acknowledged he used to use cocaine to cope with his bipolar symptoms and went to rehab to battle his cocaine addiction.

Britney Spears was hospitalized for a mental illness it is not confirmed that she has bipolar disorder, but many people believe her erratic behavior showed that she may have been suffering from an undiagnosed dual diagnosis of bipolar disorder and a substance abuse problem. Actor Mel Gibson  also talked about his battle with bipolar disorder. Heavy Metal singer Ozzy Osbourne was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and has been treated for alcoholism and drug abuse. Singer Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Actress Linda Hamilton, states that she has struggled with bipolar disorder as a young adult and used drugs and alcohol to self medicate her symptoms.

There so much stigma and shame attached to mental illness that many people often do not want to disclose their symptoms or diagnosis. But with proper treatment recovery from bipolar disorder, like many mental illnesses is possible.  The majority of people with a mental disorder can often return to their normal way of life and continue to prosper and live productive lives.

Bipolar Depression and Other Bipolar Symptoms

Bipolar depression is a mood disorder caused by unusual mood swings. Someone who experiences bipolar depression may experience periods of lows, and then swing in the opposite direction and feel highs with feelings of happiness and energy. Some people can have the swings in mood multiple times a day, whereas others may only have them a few times per year. The symptoms include mood swings of euphoric highs and lows. During the highs the person may show signs such as: a high self esteem; being very optimistic; increased sex drive; not sleeping very much .Also there are symptoms like being careless and not worrying about actions or consequences; more physically active.

When in  having a depressive episode these symptoms may appear; being sad all the time, or for extended periods; feelings of helplessness and hopelessness; not being able to sleep/sleeping excessively; poor appetite or overeating; thoughts of suicide

There are different types of Bipolar disorder: Bipolar I: someone suffering from this type of bipolar disorder has experienced at least one episode of mania in their life. Bipolar II this is similar to bipolar 1, but the person will most likely not have experienced a full manic episode during their high period which is called hypomanic. Most people also have one or more depressive moods.  Between episodes they usually live normal lives. Cyclothymic  This is a type where people have multiple episodes, possibly per year, but do not go into a full manic or depressive state. Even though they are having multiple episodes, they are not as severe as other types.

Depending on the symptoms you are suffering from there are different treatments that can be used. The most common is the use of medication and therapy. If the symptoms become extreme the person suffering may need to be hospitalized for a period of time. Even though the person may not have symptoms all of the time they need to continue to be treated. Bipolar disorder with depression is a serious illness and if you or someone you know has signs, a psychiatrist should be consulted immediately. If left untreated it could lead to serious problems for the person, and to people around them.

Other Facts about Bipolars

Becoming Bipolar is a myth.  It may seem like you can, but the fact is that you can not become a Bipolar.  Those who favor the genetic theory say that a person may carry the genes for Bipolar disorder all their life and suddenly become Bipolar later in life and become Bipolar when they are elderly.  Bipolar Disorder may become full blown if the person has been through a traumatic life event.  They may have been had a drastic change in their routine by: a move to a retirement community.  The stress may be make the latent symptoms to become active so that it may seem that the person has become Bipolar.  A heart or stroke or brain disease can look like Bipolar even though the person does not carry the genes.

Because there are episodes with Bipolars it can appear at any time when the stress of environmental changes is great enough. The person in reality has been Bipolar for life, however, the obvious symptoms may be triggered by a life even.  The Bipolar genes have been there all along but were triggered by the environment change and developed into a disorder.

Triggers which show genetic causes are any sort of trauma; substance abuse; biological illnesses; hormone changes and drastic changes in sleep habits can all be a triggers. Some women find that during menopause they experience Bipolar symptoms. Their hormonal balance is enough to trigger Bipolar symptoms. Trauma such as the sickness or death of someone close to you; violent crime become; traumatic enough to trigger Bipolar symptoms.  Soldiers coming from combat often become Bipolar after their traumatic experiences in combat.  Usually they are also suffering from post traumatic stress and need special treatment.  Reducing the post traumatic disorder can also reduce the bipolar symptoms.

Lack of sleep for a long period of time can be the biggest factor for making Bipolar disorder worse. People with Bipolar disorder should never stay awake all night; Midnight shifts at work should be avoided.  Bipolars should establish regular sleeping habits sleeping at regular times and waking up at the same time.  This alone is enough to counteract the Bipolar symptoms.  Changes in time zones can also trigger an episode for Bipolars and should be avoided as much as possible.

Avoiding triggers or lessening their severity makes it possible to thrive with Bipolar Disorder in life.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms and Treatment

Bipolar I Disorder am a type of Affective Disorder which is a psychiatric illness of mood disorder. The symptoms of Bipolar I Disorder am sometimes complex and confusing and can be mistaken for other illnesses. The symptoms of Bipolar I are changes in mood for a distinct period of time, feeling happy, optimistic, euphoric, irritable  Changes in thinking thoughts speeding through one's brain, unrealistic self confidence, difficulty concentrating, grandiose plans, delusions, hallucinations Changes in behavior  increased activity or socializing, immersion in plans or projects, talking very rapidly and excessively, excessive spending, impaired judgment, impulsive sexual involvement Changes in physical condition less need for sleep, increased energy, fewer  health complaints

Most people with Bipolar I Disorder also experience depression including depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, lack of appetite, sleep difficulties, lack of energy and thoughts of suicide. 

If you suspect, or if others around you have mentioned that your behavior has changed or your actions are different, and you are concerned you need to see a doctor to determine for diagnosis and treatment of mania or manic depression or bipolar disorder.

A diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder is when there are: one or more manic or mixed episodes and not be due to a medical condition, medication, drugs of abuse or alcohol abuse or treatment for depression.  The majority of patients who have a single episode of mania will have a recurrence.  Mixed episodes are more likely in younger patients and episodes occur more frequently with age.  Social and occupational outcomes of manic episodes can be serious; violence, child abuse, excessive debt, job loss, divorce.  Manic episodes are more likely to receive more attention compared to Depressive episodes. The suicide rate of bipolar patients is very high.  Common coexisting diagnoses include substance abuse, eating disorders, attention deficit, hyperactivity and Bipolar Disorder.  Rapid cycling pattern has a poor prognosis.

Manic behavior generally begins with a sudden and pleasant switch of mood to one of wellbeing, with happiness and positive energy.   With hypomania, a mild form of mania the individual is able to function quite well, and this mood may persist at this level for a long period of time without becoming more severe.  In other cases it intensifies into true mania.  This is the state I will discuss here. 

Out of control of emotions and behavior are prominent. Normally amiable people may become increasingly angry, impulsive, emotional or irritable Persistent euphoria that does not subside, but if their plans are interrupted their mood becomes irritable or extremely angry.  Some may become hostile. Paranoia can occur and they can assault others verbally or physically. Very rapid speech, incessant and usually in a loud voice. Answers to questions are at great length and they continue talking when others try to speak. The speech may be characterized by puns, or irrelevant quips.   Offering money or advice to strangers  Unable to sleep or sit still often going for days with 2 or3 hrs sleep and without feeling tired,  losing normal inhibitions and be sexually hyperactive or promiscuous.  Due to impaired judgment poor decision making.  Overspending or quitting jobs. With extreme mania some of the following may appear: thinking irrational. Speech uncontrollable and incoherent.  Out of touch with reality, unable to tell real tell from not real, delusions, hallucinations and Catatonia are possible.
 

Medication, mood stabilizing, medications are the treatment for individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder.  New medicines are coming to the forefront and are being researched and used for patients with bipolar disorder.

Electroconvulsive Therapy usually is only used for those as ill as to need protection from hariming themselves.

Psychotherapy alone is not affective for long-term treatment of bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy has proven effective in helping Bipolars to accept, understand and cope with the stresses of both the disorder and every day life.  Through psychotherapy individuals can learn to restore self-esteem, adapt to new emotions and work out ways to prevent relapses.

Individuals with severe mania may require hospitalization to prevent harm to themselves or to others.  Poor judgment can lead to personal danger.  People with severe mania have died as a result of physical exhaustion.

Recovery from a Manic Episode takes medications regularly and as prescribed by your doctor Get emotional support from a supportive person.   Talk to a therapist or counseling.  Focus on living one day at a time, reduce stress.

When their behavior becomes outrageous and they have run up thousands of dollar in debts and put the family on the verge of, or into bankruptcy, when they have been involved with public brawls and the police, or when their sexual indiscretions become too obvious to ignore,  relationships are strained. 

The anger displayed by the manic creates arguments and fights in the home.  The partner finds it nearly impossible to defend themselves against these attacks.  Relationships are poor, and even after the mania is gone, it is difficult on with a relationship. 

Mania is a disorder that one cannot manage on his own.  Professional mental health care from a psychiatrist is necessary.  If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of mania get they need treatment as quickly as possible. All you can do is to ensure they follow the long-term treatment program prescribed by a doctor.

Depression Types and Treatment

When you’re dealing with the symptoms of bipolar depression, it’s easy to feel like you’re consumed by the condition or feeling lost to the world around you. For patients with bipolar disorder, the depressive symptoms, also called bipolar depression, can be more disabling than mania. A major depressive episode consists of many of the symptoms some are: they occur nearly every day for at least two weeks. Depressed mood most of the day; feeling sad or empty, crying.  Loss of interest or finding less pleasure in activities that used to be enjoyable. Significant weight loss, when not dieting, weight gain; decrease or increase in appetite. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much is prominent. Agitation can be present or a slowing down of thoughts and physical movements; fatigue or loss of energy.  You may experience feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt. Often there is poor concentration or having difficulty making decisions and thinking about death or suicide.

 There are different types of depression Major Depression Disorder; Unipolar depression; Bipolar depressive disorder

Depression may be described as feeling sad, unhappy, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way from time to time but for short periods. Clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration can interfere with everyday life for weeks or longer.

The exact cause of depression is not known. Many researchers believe it is caused by chemical changes in the brain. It may be due to a problem with your genes, or triggered by certain stressful events. Some types of depression run in families. But depression can also occur if there is no family history of the illness. Anyone can develop depression. Alcohol or drug abuse, certain medical conditions such as underactive thyroid, cancer, or chronic pain can cause a person to become depressed. Certain medications such as steroids; sleeping problems; stressful life can lead to depression. The death or illness of someone close to you; divorce; childhood abuse or neglect; job loss; Social isolation common in the elderly

Your doctor will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms. Certain questions can help your doctor make a diagnosis of depression and determine how severe it may be.

Medications that you take for another health problem can cause or worsen depression. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take.  Changing your dose or switching to an alternative drug may prove helpful. Never stop taking your medications without first talking to your doctor.

Therapy is counseling to talk about your feelings and thoughts, and help you learn how to deal with them. Types of therapy include: Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches you how to change negative thoughts.  How to become more aware of your symptoms and how to spot things that makes your depression worse. You'll also problem-solving skills. Psychotherapy can help you understand the issues that may be behind your thoughts and feelings. A support group of people who are having problems like yours can also help.

 Electroconvulsive therapy is an effective treatment for severe depression and it is generally safe, it may improve mood in those with severe depression or suicidal thoughts who do not get better with other treatments. It may also help treat depression in those who have psychotic symptoms.

Often \to ease the stress of illness by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems.

 The prognosis for people with major depression is good with antidepressants for a few weeks. But many people need to take the medicine for months to fully feel better and prevent the depression from returning. For people who have repeated episodes of depression, quick and ongoing treatment may be needed to prevent more severe, long-term depression. Sometimes people will need to stay on medications for long periods of time. People who are depressed are more likely to use alcohol or illegal substances. Complications of depression also include: increased risk of physical health problems and suicide.

To defeat depression takes patience and some time before the depression lifts.  Having a good relationship with you doctor can ease the symptoms.

Taking care of yourself physically; getting exercise; eating a well balanced diet and proper sleep can all help you deal with the depression. Continuing to take your medication all can lead to relieving the most persistent depression.

   

Is There a Connection Between Bipolar Disorder and Creativity

 Is there a Connection between Bipolar Disorder and Creativity

People with Bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania, an exceptionally elevated, irritable, or energetic mood and depression. These episodes may be separate or depressed and manic symptoms may occur at the same time. The frequency of episodes varies. At least four depressive manic, hypomanic, or mixed episodes within a year of a rapidly changing mood which is known as rapid cycling bipolar disorder.

During the early stages of a manic episode, people can be very happy, productive and creative. They have less need for sleep and don’t feel tired. There is some evidence that many well known creative people were bipolar.

 Patients say that they get to the point where they can’t function and sometimes need to be hospitalized, especially if they don’t take their medication as prescribed.

In a manic episode, the person can feel like making lots of plans because the world seems full of opportunity. They may feel high, meet a lot of new friends, spend all their money, and even feel invincible. Medication can appear dull the creativity, and may be seen as a negative feeling at this point.

There something about the manic or in between episodes of bipolar disorder that can be leads to creative expression in some people.

Studies in both medical and psychology have shown some evidence for a link, but the  focus  is on well known figures or small groups of patients.

It is established that people with affective disorders tend to be represented in the creative artist community especially those with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder may carry certain rewards for creativity, especially in those who have milder symptoms.

The diagnosis of bipolar disorder has been linked to gifted talents of mood disorders and it is likely that the condition has a genetic basis. 

Individuals with bipolar disorder often report that they are at their most creative and productive when having a manic episode.

 A study attempted to link the relationship between Virginia Woolf’s creativity and her mental illness, which was probably bipolar disorder 1941.

Is there a connection with creativity and mood disorders?

Researchers have proposed several reasons that could account for the link between mood disorders and creativity.

They believe that mania causes imaginative activity because the energy of manic depression drives the victims to look for outlets which often become creative expression. Also they have put forward the view that the continuous energy of the hippomanic state leads to the phenomenal and original output.

Researchers also point out that creativity and bipolar symptoms could be genetic. Studies are constantly increasing to investigate this link.   

Evidence shows many creative people as having mood disorders. Some of the most famous were: Abraham Lincoln who suffered from severe depression and suicidal thoughts. Ernest Hemingway experienced depression before committing suicide. Sylvia Plath had an enduring battle with depression. She also committed suicide. Vincent Van Gogh was well known for his quick tempered character and depression. He was hospitalized in an asylum before he committed suicide. Ludwig Van Beethoven was recorded as being mentally ill with manic depression. John Keats was grappled with depression and mental illness. Winston Churchill was recorded as having manic depression and he was known for his speeches which were inspirational during the war.

What causes the creative differences in bipolar people has yet to be proven; however, evidence shows that there is a connection between bipolar disorder and creativity it is shown throughout history.

Psycholigical Disorders Intervention and Treatment

Psychological Disorders and Intervention and Treatment

 Mental illnesses are for most people embarrassing and shameful few people are likely to tell friends and family they are seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist.  It is painful to dig into the soul and use therapy like cognitive behavioral treatments to your life, even to relieve the psychological disorder. Counseling for psychological disorders can be very expensive and insurance providers do not always cover the cost. Seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist is invaluable to your whole self not just your mind and emotions, or the psychological disorder. Physical health is connected to your mind and overall health, caring for your inner self can boost other parts.

Like a physical disease, diabetes and cancer, a psychological disorder can strike anyone at any time in their life, no matter of how wealthy, happy, or stable they are.

Some of the psychological disorders that are the most common are: depression, major depression, dysthymic disorder, adjustment disorder with depression and bipolar depression.

Anxiety Disorders: panic disorder, post traumatic stress, social anxiety, agoraphobia, obsessive compulsive disorder and certain phobias.

 Schizophrenia: is a chronic, severe, and disabling mental disorder.  

Childhood Disorders: behavioral control problems, including ADHD, conduct disturbance, and oppositional behavior. Separation anxiety, a common problem in young children

Impulse Control Disorders: psychological problems involving loss of control are described in this section. Anger control problems are usually diagnosed as intermittent explosive disorder, domestic violence problems. pathological gambling and kleptomania.

Personality Disorders: general characteristics of all personality disorders, obsessive compulsive, narcissistic and borderline personality disorders.

Adjustment Disorders: The general characteristics of adjustment disorders, life stressors that lead to adjustment problems, such as marital conflict and job stress.

Family Problems: family conflicts often occur because one or more family members have a psychological. Family conflicts also arise because of communication problems, parenting issues, school problems and sibling conflicts.

Psychological disorders, also called mental disorders, are persistent behavior patterns that can seriously affect your day-to-day function and life.

The treatment of psychological disorders is firstly recognizing that a problem exists.  Regular medical care can be helpful because it allows a health care professional to provide early screening tests. Regular medical care also provides an opportunity for your health care professional to promptly evaluate symptoms and the risks for developing psychological disorders.

 Frequently treatment includes psychotherapy to work on behaviors, skill development, and thought process. 

Common treatments of psychological disorders start with medication to relive the disorder and help with the therapy. These may be: Antianxiety medications, Antidepressant medications to improve moods, Antipsychotic medications to treat disordered thought patterns and altered perceptions.

 The psychological approaches may include: Cognitive behavioral therapy to work on thought patterns and behavior, Family therapy to help develop support and understanding, Group therapy, Hospitalization for coexisting medical problems, serious complications, severe disorders, or substance abuse and Individual therapy, Moodstabilizing medications are used if needed. Psychodynamic therapy works on discovering and understanding past issues and their relationship to current thoughts and behaviors and Support groups.

Psychological methods of treatment can often find underlying issues that can occur with dual diagnosis and often can provide insight to behavior problems which can mask a more serious disorder. The muse of psycho logic treatments can aid recovery more easily and in a shorter time period

Discrimination and the Mentally Ill

Many people experience stigma for many reasons. Discrimination is found in many different prejudices, like sexual orientation, gender, culture or physical disability. Discrimination can lead to mental problems or substance abuse problems. And people who already discriminated for any reason may be even less able to find help for these problems or less able to find services that they need.
Research shows that over half of people living with mental disorders say that they were embarrassed about their mental health problems, and over half felt like they had experienced discrimination.


Just under half of the people thought that a mental disorder was just an excuse for poor behavior. Only about one in three people would continue to be friends with someone with an alcohol use problem. Only about one in four would continue to be friends with someone with a drug use problem



What can we do about it? Discrimination of mental health and substance use is a human rights problem. Human rights are rights that all people should have. The respect and dignity is a freedom that should not be taken away by other people’s ideas or by myths. It is a basic human right for all people with mental health and substance use problems. Everyone has the right to live without discrimination of any kind.


Health and well-being are things like human rights and access to opportunities. Discrimination denies human rights, and creates unequal access. Human rights and helping everyone to take part in our society, we are also fighting the discrimination and improving people’s wellbeing.


Focus on the differences in people poverty, the need for affordable housing; more education opportunities and the opportunity for meaningful work are social factors that can affect well-being. These factors may be an outcome of mental health and a cause of mental health issues. Inequalities tackled among the members of a community are helpful for the individuals and society. The systems that create differences by encouraging our governments have to have positive laws. Supporting people in our communities who are working to reduce differences is paramount to resolve mental health discrimination.


Everyone has the right to work. Work gives us purpose and meaning. Also the income, with other social factors, for example, if we have a high income, we can afford better housing and have right to more services. People are entitled to have access to training, education or other work programs. Direct personal contact and interacting with people with mental health or substance use problems is one of the best ways to improve public attitudes. Experiences can counteract the major myths. Education can help people to understand the problems the mentally ill face.


Mental illness and substance use problems are shared by humanity the fear, prejudice and discrimination are less when we talk about mental health problems as unfortunate biological problems and fateful circumstances which a person has no control of.


Help people be heard: We need to encourage anti-stigma programs and research. Supporting people and connecting them with others who share the same problems. When people relate to each other’s difficulties and want to see a change, to share their stories they can protest the injustice.


Media like TV, movies, newspapers, influence how we see others. The media should show people for who they really are capable and productive members of society. The voice of people with mental illnesses and substance use problems with backup of the media can be powerful. The discrimination against a group of people is a vital issue that needs to be addressed by all.

Bipolar Disorder and Violence

People with bipolar disorder have to deal with many signs and symptoms, including bipolar mania symptoms and hypomania episodes. These can be mixed with severe depressive episodes, occurring separately or simultaneously with manic episodes. Many bipolar patients can often coexist with bipolar disorder and all of the mania symptoms. Understanding the manic behaviors associated with hypomania and severe mania can help you learn to watch out for any early warning signs and signals that present themselves to you.

No matter if you have bipolar I disorder or bipolar II disorder, You must understand the mania symptoms and manic episodes. With bipolar I disorder, full-blown media episodes do occur in while only hypomanic episodes occur in patients with bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I disorder is generally much worse than any of the other types of bipolar that can have psychotic symptoms, severe depression episodes and full-blown mania, varying from different causes and triggers in everyday life, including lack of sleep and too much daily stress..

Euphoric feelings and extremely high optimism are very common in mania and hypomania. Many hypomanic states often start out quite productive in the beginning because of the high amount of energy you may be experiencing. Your creativity may start while you feel inspired . Sooner or later, things end up getting out of control and warning signs and symptoms of severe depression episodes are usually just waiting. Having melancholic lows and extreme highs are part of hypomania and manic episodes. So you may ask the question what is the difference between normal feelings of happiness and manic episodes Mania in the end will always end with a pile of debt, emotional or physical pain, the loss of a job or friendship, the loss of a close relationship and extreme humiliation to the bipolar patient.

Sometimes mania will bring extreme anger and aggression, leading to violence and morbid thoughts. You can easily become demanding and very impatient. Being argumentative and saying sarcastic remarks are very common in patients with full-blown mania. You may even be arrested and sent to jail for fighting or you may explode with your friends and family for the littlest thing. This can cause extreme mood swings and racing thoughts in the person, leading to extreme violence as part of the manic behaviors in each bipolar patient.

It will  seem that you have the ability to do any and everything during the state of hypomania or mania. You will feel like you have an exuberant answers for everyday life. You will find yourself highly sociable and friendly during different phases of manic episode, leaving people attracted to you.  Many individuals with an inflated self-esteem come up with the grandiose idea that God has chosen them as their special person for a special mission in life.

You have the ability to go for many days in a row with only 2 to 4 hours of sleep each night that, is very common during phases of hypomania. During mania, a patient with bipolar disorder symptoms may stay awake for three or four days at the time. You may work for 16 or 18 hours at a time, even without stopping for food. Period of insomnia are also common and related to the decreased need for sleep during manic episodes

The ability to concentrate on one task at a time becomes very difficult and almost impossible during phases of manic or hypomanic episodes. You may have trouble sitting still for longer than 10 minutes at a time, always having to constantly move in having an increased level of energy.

When you’re hypomanic or manic, you will have thoughts literally bombard your brain one after another, without any possible time to think about each in between. You may feel as though your brain is spinning and that you have no ability to stop it or control your thoughts. This may cause you to talk excessively and not have the ability to actually listen to what someone else is saying. It’s like your brain is constantly running only waiting for the other person to close their mouth.. Others can usually not even get a word in, which will become very frustrating for them.

Many times bipolar patients when trying to manage episodes of mania or are hypomania will engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding on the highway, engaging in risky sexual behaviors, go on spending sprees or saying something to your friends or family members you would normally not do. And impulsiveness also leads to making irrational decisions that are uncontrollable for the bipolar patient. You may without any thought, tell your boss off without  thinking about the consequences or make a lifestyle decision that affects everyone around.

It is very common for bipolar I patients that have psychotic symptoms or manic symptoms to engage in substance abuse. Drinking too much alcohol is one of the common symptoms of bipolar patients during severe depressive episodes and manic episodes. This is a warning sign that there is a problem requiring treatment from a psychiatrist. Alcohol abuse is a leading factor in many mood disorders and mental illnesses. Cocaine is also frequently used by bipolar patients.

In adults, bipolar disorder and rage can manifest with seemingly unprovoked occasions of aggressiveness and impulsivity - vocal and/or physical.
Throwing objects against walls or at other people or breaking furniture.

One of the worst feelings is the feeling of shame that many bipolar sufferers feel after being on the offensive end one of these fits of anger. If you suspect that you or someone close to you  may have bipolar disorder; The first step is to make an appointment with a psychiatrist. A regular doctor or psychologist are not trained like a psychiatrist to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder

It is important the people suffering from bipolar disorder get diagnosed early, get treatment, learn to recognize the beginning of anger attacks and learn to deal with them and to help prevent further bipolar rage episodes.

Many bipolar disorder people, if diagnosed correctly and given the proper psychiatric treatment can learn self-control, learn how to cope and live an almost normal life.