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The Bipolar Child : The Definitive  and Reassuring Guide to Childhood's  Most Misunderstood Disorder by Demitri F., Md. Papolos, Janice Papolos *As featured on Oprah

Symptoms of Bi-Polar Disorder

BP Disorder is characterized by shifts between a depressed and manic state.
In the opposing manic state, the symptoms are as follows:

• increased strength and energy, decreased sleep

• extreme irritability

• rapid, unpredictable emotional changes

• racing thoughts, flights of ideas

• increased interest in activities, overspending

• grandiosity, inflated self-esteem

• increased sexual drive

• poor judgment                                                                                           
  

Who is at risk?

It is estimated that 1% of the population will experience bi-polar disorder. Environmental factors such as a death, separation or divorce can trigger the onset of symptoms. It is believed that bi-polar disorder may be inherited, and that the predisposing factors may be genetic in nature.

What is Bi-Polar Disorder?

Formerly known as Manic-Depression, Bi-Polar Disorder is characterized by experiences of severe mood ranges, including both depression and mania. In a depressed state the individual experiences all the lows of clinical depression, while in a manic state the person's expansive and impulsive manner can damage interpersonal relations, job performance and other social stability. Left untreated, some manic states can accelerate into psychotic-like symptoms over time. People suffering from Bi-Polar Disorder often feel like their lives are out of control and that they can no longer explain their states to their loved ones. Most individuals will experience "normal" periods in between highs and lows and this further complicates understanding and support.

Bi-Polar Disorder can can send a person plunging from a high state, where they may believe that they have superhuman energy and abilities into a pit of despair where it may seem that suicide is the only alternative to suffering. Fortunately, there are very effective treatments available for bi-polar disorder and help is readily accessible.

How to get help

As with most mental illnesses, a full gamut of therapy and treatment is available. With bi-polar disorder, a medicative therapy has been most effective in treating the chemical imbalances which cause these
dramatic mood experiences. If you are concerned about bi-polar disorder, please contact a health professional for diagnosis and advice. 

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