How to Recognize the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder refers to a chemical imbalance in the brain that causes wild mood swings from depressed and lethargic (depressive) to hyer-excited and full of wild energy (manic). Here's how to recognize some common symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for exaggerated behavior that changes over time from excessive energy to total lack of it.

2. Look for a constant deviation from ideas. The person may show over-confidence and courage one week, and pessimism, low confidence and negative thoughts the next.

3. See if the affected person shows impulsive actions in just about everything. He or she may want to drive fast, indulge in promiscuous sex, spend wildly or smoke a lot.

4. Notice any changes in eating and sleeping habits of the person concerned. Bipolar disorder can cause either overeating or a reduced appetite, insomnia or oversleeping.

5. Look for an inability to concentrate or make decisions.

Tips & Warnings

• Bipolar disorder can be controlled with medication once it is diagnosed, if the patient is willing to seek treatment.

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