Being Bipolar – What does it Mean?

Being bipolar, or having bipolar disease is the name that is now given to what used to be called manic depression years ago. Millions of people all over the world have been diagnosed as being bipolar, or being on the bipolar spectrum – but many are unsure as to what this actually means. Bipolar disorder is known as a mood disorder which is typified by highs and lows which are much more extreme than most people are used to. Whilst in the grip of a bipolar episode suffers can act in ways that are very unlike their normal pattern of behaviour and this can sometimes turn dangerous.

Being bipolar means that these increased highs and lows interfere in a person’s daily life to such an extent that they are unable to function normally. For instance during a high, a bipolar sufferer may feel incredibly elated and as though they are unstoppable. They might feel full of energy and ready to take on the world, and whilst this initially sounds like a good thing this behaviour can soon change. This can then lead to the person who is bipolar making bad decisions, turning to stimulate drugs such as cocaine and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. Some people also find that during a high they will get an overwhelming urge to spend large amounts of money that often they cannot afford. During these highs, often referred to as a manic episode, the sufferer may also feel angry and anxious.

During a low these feelings will switch to deep depression, and this can last for very prolonged periods of time and this can have a profound effect on the bipolar sufferer. They might not want to get up in the mornings so their work will suffer. They may find that they have little or no appetite so they will often lose weight and things that they once enjoyed hold no appeal. Some people who are bipolar also contemplate suicide so it is important that they have the right amount of care during a low.

These highs and lows can be mixed with times when the person with bipolar can feel quite well and as though they are not bipolar. This can be a tough time as it is at this point that some bipolar sufferers believe that they are cured and no longer have to take their prescribed medication. It is crucial that any medication prescribed, such as Lithium, to control and regulate the moods is taken every day at the set time. Such medication will help to control the symptoms of bipolar disorder and make life much more bearable for the sufferer. Without the correct medication bipolar disorder can become intolerable as the persons moods will fluctuate rapidly and this is very dangerous as they can put themselves at risk. However, when it is controlled properly bipolar disorder sufferers can live a perfectly normal and happy life.