By Sherry Shinholster
Overview
Bipolar disorder does exist; it occurs when you experience episodes of severe mood swings. You might be feeling happy, then suddenly, you are sad. It's like you have stepped out of your own body and someone else has taken it over. You feel as if you can't handle another minute of these feelings, and you just want to get rid of them.
Signs and Symptoms
Many signs and symptoms of depression mimic the symptoms of bipolar disorder. With bipolar, however, your moods are constantly changing. You can't recognize whether you are sad or happy, which causes bouts of fatigue.
How Bipolar Affects People Around You
People around you start blaming themselves for your erratic behavior. They don't understand, and it is difficult for them to cope with your symptoms.
Getting Help
Having bipolar is very similar to an alcoholic admitting that they have a problem--you have to do the same. Get support from family members; this plays a key role in you getting better.
Post-Dianosis
After you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it's critical that you start educating yourself. Research it, and ask for your family members to help you.
Treatments
There are several types of treatment. Most common treatments are atypical antipsychotic drugs such as Abilify, Seroquel and Zyprexa--all of which have been approved for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers such as Lithium are also very common.
Types
There are also non-medical treatment options as well, such as psychotherapy (talk therapy), and sleep management, all of which are effective at reducing episodes.
Does Bipolar Disorder Exist? by fortotalwellbeing.com