What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder. It usually develops in a persons mid-teens or early adult years, but can affect people of all ages. With proper treatment, many patients are able to control their mood swings. Untreated bipolar disorder can lead to many serious problems, including substance abuse, financial crises, interpersonal difficulties, and increased risk of suicide.
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
In bipolar disorder, manic symptoms alternate with...
Read moreThe number of adults with bipolar disorder is estimated to be anywhere from 2.6% to 3.9% of adults in the United States. Given that there... Read more »
Has the age of bipolar onset fallen or are we simply more sensitized to something that has always been there? It's an interesting question.... Read more »
Adolescence is an important time for formulating ideas, developing autonomy and developing a sense of self. It is also generally... Read more »
Risperdal - generic risperidone - is an antipsychotic medication. It's approved as a treatment for schizophrenia (adults and adolescents... Read more »
A reader recently described his frustration in managing insomnia associated with bipolar disorder, and asked about the mechanisms of sleep... Read more »
Expert patient John McManamy, who has battled bipolar disorder, is taking his voice to a new level. His informative and provocative book, Living... Read more »
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme changes in mood, thinking, and behavior. During a "manic phase," people with bipolar... Read more »
Bipolar disorder treatment includes medication and non-drug therapy. The good news is that most patients respond to treatment and are able to control... Read more »
Source: HealthCentral Encyclopedia
Article updated and reviewed by Christos Ballas, MD, Attenting Psychiatrist, Inpatient and Consult/Liaison Psychiatry, Hospital of the University of... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
CausesDoctors do not know what causes bipolar disorder, but it is likely a combination of biochemical, genetic, and environmental... Read more »