How Do You Know If Someone Is Bipolar

Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder In Children

Bipolar disorder isnt only an adult problem, it can also occur in children. Diagnosing bipolar disorder in children can be difficult because the symptoms of this disorder can sometimes mimic those of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder .

If your child is being treated for ADHD and their symptoms havent improved, talk to your doctor about the possibility of bipolar disorder. Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children can include:

• impulsiveness
• emotional outbursts
• periods of sadness

The criteria for diagnosing bipolar disorder in children is similar to diagnosing the condition in adults. Theres no particular diagnostic test, so your doctor may ask a series of questions about your childs mood, sleep pattern, and behavior.

For example, how often does your child have emotional outbursts? How many hours does your child sleep a day? How often does your child have periods of aggression and irritability? If your childs behavior and attitude are episodic, your doctor may make a bipolar disorder diagnosis.

The doctor may also ask about your family history of depression or bipolar disorder, as well as check your childs thyroid function to rule out an underactive thyroid.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder

Once you have an idea about the disorder, it becomes very important to know what causes bipolar disorder. But unfortunately, the exact cause of the bipolar disorder is not known but different pieces of research have revealed that it occurs as a combination of genetics, altered structure of brain & chemistry, and environment. Let us delve a bit deeper into the causes of the disorder to have a better understanding.

Genetics Genetics is one of the major causes of bipolar disorder. Heredity plays a significant role in causing bipolar disorder since the affected genes might be passed onto the kids from their parents. Research is still going on to find the precise genes responsible for causing the disorder.

Altered Brain Structure and Chemistry Biological differences in the brain can cause bipolar disorder. The affected individuals appear to have physical alterations in their brains. The significance of these alterations in the structure of the brain and chemistry is still uncertain but it is said to have been the causative factor for the disorder.

Environmental Factors Periods of a high amount of stress like any traumatic events, death of a loved one, or similar others might cause bipolar disorder.

Other Risk Factors There are certain more risk factors that can increase the chance of the disease. Drug or alcohol abuse, extreme mental stress, severe depression, etc. might increase the risk of the disease.

Can Anxiety Turn Into Bipolar

There is no research evidence that suggests that anxiety can turn into bipolar disorder, says Simon A. Rego, PsyD, Chief Psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. People with bipolar disorder may experience feelings of anxiety, however, and may also confuse some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder for symptoms of anxiety.

In addition, some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder can also be associated with some of the anxiety disorders, Rego says. And some people may have both an anxiety disorder and bipolar disorder.

So it’s not always so easy to sort these things out, Rego says. It is much more important to seek professional help if youre experiencing symptoms that are causing you distress or interference in your ability to function in life.

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When A Parent Has Bipolar Disorder

…What kids want to know

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• When a parent has bipolar disorder … What kids want to know

Children have a lot of questions when someone in their family is sick. When children dont have answers to their questions, they tend to come up with their own, which can be incorrect and scary!

When the family members illness is bipolar disorder, it often becomes a secret that nobody talks about. All children need some explanation and support, geared to their age, to help them understand bipolar disorder.Each parent and childs beginning conversation about bipolar disorder will be different depending on the childs age and ability to manage the information. You know your children best.This brochure will help prepare you to take the first step. If you have already started talking to a child about bipolar disorder, this brochure will give you more information to keep the conversation going. It lists common questions children have about their parents bipolar disorder, as well as suggestions for how to answer their questions.

Questions kids have

What is bipolar disorder? How does bipolar disorder work?

Why does my dad act the way he does? How does it feel to have bipolar disorder? What goes on in my moms head when shes not herself?

What does a low mood, or depression, mean? What does it look like?

What does a high mood, or mania, mean? What does it look like?

How will bipolar disorder affect me? How will it affect my family?

How can my mom or dad get better?

Bipolar More Common In Younger

In terms of ages and percentages experiencing bipolar, 2.6% of males ages 13-18 are diagnosed as bipolar, with the most common ages being 16-18.

In men ages 18 and older, 2.9% are diagnosed as bipolar, with the most common occurrence of 4.7% for ages 18-29, dropping exponentially in older age groups.

The number of people in their 30s to early 40s is 3.5% experiencing bipolar, dropping to 2.2% of those ages 45-59. Fewer than 1% of those older than 60 experience bipolar.

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Bipolar Disorder Or Depression

Doctors sometimes find it hard to distinguish between bipolar disorder and depression, and this can lead to misdiagnosis. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to seek help during a low mood because depression is more likely to have a negative impact on their health and wellbeing. During a high mood, they may feel exceptionally well.

Factors that increase the chance of this happening include the following:

• Depression is the dominant mood.
• Depression is the first episode you have.
• You have experienced mania or hypomania but not realized it could be significant.

Its essential to get an accurate diagnosis in order to work out a treatment plan. Antidepressants may not be effective in treating bipolar disorder.

In addition, some antidepressant medications can trigger a first manic or hypomanic episode if youre susceptible to them, and this could complicate both treatment and the outcome.

If you go to see your doctor with depression, be sure to tell them about any of the following, as these can help get an accurate diagnosis:

• a family history of bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions
• any other conditions that affect your mental or physical wellbeing
• any medications, drugs, or other substances youre taking or have used in the past
• if youve already tried antidepressants and they did not help

Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified is a general category for a person who only has symptoms of bipolar disorder that dont match the three other categories. The symptoms are not enough to make a diagnosis of one of the other three types.

The signs of bipolar disorder can generally be divided into those for mania, and those for depression.

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Bipolar Disorder And Suicide

The depressive phase of bipolar disorder is often very severe, and suicide is a major risk factor. In fact, people suffering from bipolar disorder are more likely to attempt suicide than those suffering from regular depression. Furthermore, their suicide attempts tend to be more lethal.

The risk of suicide is even higher in people with bipolar disorder who have frequent depressive episodes, mixed episodes, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, a family history of suicide, or an early onset of the disease.

Suicide warning signs include:

• Talking about death, self-harm, or suicide.
• Feeling hopeless or helpless.

Get more help

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms, causes, and treatment.

Rapid Cycling Signs, symptoms, and causes of rapid cycling in bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Workbook and other self-help resources.

Hotlines and support

In the U.S.: Call the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-6264 or find DBSA Chapters/Support Groups in your area.

UK: Call the peer support line at 0333 323 3880 and leave a message for a return call or Find a Support Group near you.

Australia: Call the Sane Helpline at 1800 187 263 or find a local Support Group.

Canada: Visit Finding Help for links to provincial helplines and support groups.

India: Call the Vandrevala Foundation Helpline at 1860 2662 345 or 1800 2333 330

Address The Manic Signs Of Bipolardisorder

The manic signs of bipolar disorder require immediate intervention. Otherwise, they can forever alter the course of ones personal and professional life. You can live a fulfilling life with bipolar disorder, but only if youre able to notice and address the issues when they arise. Contact us today if you or someone you love has been experiencing the above signs and symptoms.

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Make A Plan For Manic Episodes

When your friend or family member is feeling well, try talking to them about how you can support them if they have a hypomanic or manic episode. This can help both of you feel more stable and in control of what’s happening. You could discuss ideas such as:

• enjoying being creative together
• offering a second opinion about projects or commitments, to help someone not take on too much
• if they would like you to, helping to manage money while they are unwell
• helping them keep a routine, including regular meals and a good sleep pattern

Signs Of Bipolar Disorder In Men

Bipolar signs in men, outlined by the DSM-5, are the same as they are for women. However, the symptoms of bipolar disorder may present differently according to gender.

The most common signs of bipolar disorder in men include:

Cycles of mania and depression: Defined by a state of euphoria, fast speech, lots of different ideas or intense anger or irritability, mania affects people with bipolar I disorder. People with bipolar II disorder typically experience cycles of hypomania and major depression.

High self-esteem: High self-esteem or extreme confidence often presents in mania. However, these symptoms can be conflated with expressing masculinity, so it can be difficult to differentiate this from “normal” behavior.

Denial anything is wrong: Some men struggle to admit that anything is wrong when theyre experiencing mental health issues, particularly if they exist in a society where theyre expected not to show emotion.

Poor decision-making and reckless behavior: Risk-taking behavior in men might include hyperactivity, sleeplessness, hypersexuality, abusing alcohol or drugs, excessive spending and other pleasure-seeking behaviors.

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Get Involved With Treatment

Ask if you can be involved with your partners treatment, which may include occasionally going to the psychiatrist together. Being a part of your partners treatment has multiple benefits, including:

• Gaining a better understanding of the illness.
• Providing additional insight for the psychiatrist.
• Learning to spot signs of impending episodes.
• Alerting the psychiatrist about mood changes.

Even if your partner hasnt signed off on you exchanging information with their psychiatrist, you can still report worrisome signs . This gives the doctor a chance to make quick medication changes that may help your partner avoid being hospitalized.

Do People With Bipolar Disorder Know They Have The Condition Before Getting Diagnosed

Sometimes. For example, Ayetoro had suspicions for years before officially being diagnosed in 2014.

I experienced what I thought were abnormal swings in mood from very high energy to very low energy for a very long time before. My moods would get so low that I was spending unusual amounts of time in bed depressed, she recalls. It was strange that this depression would follow periods of extremely high spirits.

She experienced two manic episodes before receiving her diagnosis. It was somewhat of a relief to put a name to what was with me, but then began the hard road to stability.

On the other hand, Howard was surprised to receive a diagnosis of bipolar I with psychosis at age 25. As for what made me believe I may have had an illness literally nothing. I was tricked into going to the hospital. Up until the moment I was admitted, I thought everything was normal. It was quite the shock.

Who would I be without bipolar disorder? Id love to find out, he adds. But harnessing my mind and using it to the best of my ability has been my lifes work.

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How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed

Bipolar disorder is diagnosed through a clinical interview with a licensed mental health professional, explains Simon A. Rego, PsyD, Chief Psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City.

Sometimes, the mental health professional will also ask the person to complete some assessment measures to aid in the diagnosis, Rego says. They may also ask to speak with a family member or partner, or other significant person in the persons life, in order to get additional information about the impact the disorder has had on the person and their relationships.

How Can You Help Someone With Bipolar Disorder

Dealing with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder can be difficultand not just for the person with the illness. The moods and behaviors of a person with bipolar disorder affect everyone aroundespecially family members and close friends. It can put a strain on your relationship and disrupt all aspects of family life.

During a manic episode, you may have to cope with reckless antics, outrageous demands, explosive outbursts, and irresponsible decisions. And once the whirlwind of mania has passed, it often falls on you to deal with the consequences. During episodes of depression, you may have to pick up the slack for a loved one who doesnt have the energy to meet responsibilities at home or work.

The good news is that most people with bipolar disorder can stabilize their moods with proper treatment, medication, and support. Your patience, love, and understanding can play a significant part in your loved ones treatment and recovery. Often, just having someone to talk to can make all the difference to their outlook and motivation.

But caring for a person with bipolar disorder can also take a toll if you neglect your own needs, so its important to find a balance between supporting your loved one and taking care of yourself.

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Signs The Man Youre Dating Has Bipolar Disorder

Signs of bipolar in a man can are hugely variable, and they won’t be the same for everyone. While it’s true that men and women experience bipolar disorder in similar ways, the effects of the condition may be different depending on hormones, brain chemicals and environmental factors. Men often exhibit symptoms of bipolar differently than women, so it helps to know what to look out for. With this in mind, what are the signs the man you’re dating has bipolar, and what should you do if you spot them?

Bipolar Disorder: What Does It Feel Like

Bipolar disorder is an illness that produces dramatic swings in mood . A person with bipolar disorder will alternate between periods of mania and periods of depression . In between these two extremes, a person will have periods of normal mood. To help gain a better understanding of what it feels like, mania and depression are described below.

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What Are Potential Results Of Screening For Bipolar

An estimated 2.8% of U.S. adults have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. If left undiagnosed or untreated, the condition usually worsens, causing more problems with mood, energy and clear thinking.

If a diagnosis comes back as negative for bipolar, but you still experience symptoms, a health care professional may screen you for a similar condition such as schizophrenia or depression.

Getting a professional screening can start you on the path toward treatment, which can help improve your quality of life.

When Mania Is Present

Mania is not to be mixed up with the milder hypomania often found inbipolar II patients. While hypomania can progress into the more severe form, itdoesnt pose as much of a threat to ones daily activities. You can experiencehypomania and still take part in activities such as:

• Work
• Social outings
• Relationship interactions

But all of these go out the window for the bipolar patient in the midstof a manic episode. Of the many bipolar disorder symptoms patients have to dealwith, this can be the scariest for both the person having it and those whospend time with them. It plays out like this.

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Everybody Has Mood Swings Sometimes

That’s true. For one thing, 8% of American adults and 4% of adolescents have major depressive disorder, having periods of euthymia and depression. Even among those who do not have a diagnosable mental health disorder, people experience changes in mood.

But only people with bipolar disorder, cyclothymia, schizoaffective disorder, and related severe mental illnesses have repeated and severe mood swings between mania or hypomania and depression.

Can People Tell They Are Bipolar

People can often tell that something is wrong , but may not always be able to accurately label it as bipolar. For example, it is frequently easy for people to know when they are depressed, but sometimes symptoms of mania go unnoticed, or feel good, so they are not as easily seen as an issue, says Simon A. Rego, PsyD, Chief Psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City.

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