Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

  • Extreme changes in one’s behavior, mood, and energy (formerly known as manic depressive illness)
  • The National Institute of Mental Health states up to 3 percent of adolescents are affected by Bipolar Disorder.
  • Disorder shifts between two phases – mania and depression
  • Symptoms of mania can include:
    • Overly happy
    • Extreme irritability
    • Increased energy
    • Impractical self-esteem
    • Decreased need for sleep
    • Risk-taking behavior
    • Rapid thinking
  • Symptoms of depression can include:
    • Hopelessness
    • Loss of interest
    • Overeating or appetite loss
    • Fatigue
    • Guilt, worthlessness
    • Thoughts of suicide
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Sleep disturbance
    • Headaches
  • Early professional help is greatly beneficial
  • Treatment includes education, psychotherapy, and medication.
  • For further in-depth information on bipolar disorder: