2007-01-12 12:39:15 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Bipolar Disorder (previously known as manic-depressive disorder) is characterized by highs (mania) and lows (depression). The cycles can last several days or several weeks (rarely cycling within the same day). Its more severe than just mood swings. People with mania have a decreased need for sleep. Its like they are running on an infinite battery. They'll start projects they never finish. They may be arrogant and mean. They may be angry and impulsive (like drinking or going on shopping sprees). Some people become hypersexual. They may talk quickly or just seem very hyperactive. So, when they cycle into the depressive phase, you can understand why its such a crash. People with Bipolar have Major Depressive Episodes. This may include feeling suicidal, being unable to get out of bed, not eating or sleeping, not going to work or school, just seeming run down, or not talking to others.
2007-01-12 12:42:16 · answer #1 · answered by psychgrad 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There's many many different symptoms of this disorder some all patients have while others don't. There's different types of Bipolar as well. There's Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Rapid Cycling Bipolar. I'm whichever one is mostly on the depression side. If you want a personal description of a Bipolar (Manic Depressive) person you can read my 360 blog entry about how it affects me. I've been diagnosed as Bipolar for over a year now. Another thing you can go to is the NIMH website...it's the National Institute of Mental Health & look up Bipolar.
2007-01-14 18:36:03 · answer #2 · answered by Jaysangl 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bipolar disorder used to be called "manic-depressive" disorder.
It's caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain & is characterized by mood swings.
I have close relatives who are bipolar.
2007-01-12 13:24:38 · answer #3 · answered by WillyC 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it is a chemical imbalance in the brain that typically can cause extreme highs and extreme lows, however hormonal changes in teens, pregnancy, ect. can mimic this disorder.
2007-01-12 12:46:31 · answer #4 · answered by irish eyes 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well...i hate to admit it but my aunt is bipolar..its when you go from extremely nice to really angry or other moods..its like a disease...you go from one mood to another real quick.. sometimes its good most of the time bad.
2007-01-12 12:54:10 · answer #5 · answered by K-Rad 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋