BiPolar Disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels and the ablity to perform day-to-day tasks.  These shifts are different than the normal ups and downs experienced by everyone.  BiPolar is a serious illness and has a high rate of recurrence.  If not treated there is approximately a 15% risk of death by suicide. It is the third leading cause of death among people aged 15-24 and the sixth leading cause of disability for people aged 15-44.

BiPolar affects both sexes equally in all age groups and its worldwide prevalence is approximately 3-5%.

BiPolar is a treatable disorder and people with bipolar disorder can live full and productive lives.

Part of the difficulty with the treatment lies in the diagnosis. It is often hard to identify when it starts.  Symptoms may be seen as separate problems or may be identified as another disorder. Unfortunately, many people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated. The average age of onset is 21 years of age. Without treatment the episodes become more severe and more frequent.

There are also often other disorders that occur with bipolar disorder.  The most common mental health problems that co-occur are anxiety, substance abuse and conduct disorders.  The most common medical disorders that occur are migraine headaches, thyroid illness, obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Like diabetes and heart disease bipolar disorder is a long term illness that requires lifelong therapy.

The primary treatment for bipolar disorder is the use of mood stabalizing medications (usually lithium, carbamaxepine or valproic acid) often in combination with an antipsychotic medication.

Research shows that the most effective treatment is a combination of supportive counseling, psychoeducation and medications.

With the correct treatment and staying with it people with bipolar disorder can live healthy and meaningful lives.

Kathy Whitaker, MS

LMHC

References:

Internet Mental Health

NMIH