Bipolar disorder also known as manic-depressive illness is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood energy & ability to function. The main symptoms of are mood swings ranging from extreme happiness (mania) to extreme sadness or depression which can last several weeks or more. Different from the normal ups & downs that everyone goes through symptoms are severe. They can result in damaged relationships poor job or school performance & there is an increased risk suicide. The good news is that bipolar disorder can be treated & people with this illness can lead full & productive lives. Bipolar disorder affects around one in 100 people & typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood affecting women & men equally. Often not recognized as an illness it can cause years of suffering before it is properly diagnosed & treated. Like diabetes or heart disease bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person's life. This book looks at: what is bipolar disorder
- types (Bipolar 1 Bipolar 11) & symptoms; diagnosis including differential diagnoses eg other psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia thyroid disorders anorexia nervosa cerebrovascular event dementia; management
- psychological therapy including CBT; management
- drug therapy; self-management
- planning & preventing episodes; alternative therapies that help; & other strategies eg exercise.