BIPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar disorder is when you experience extreme mood changes that can cause you to experience extreme periods of low (depressed) and high (manic) moods.

What are some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder include:

• Extremely high self-esteem
• Need less sleep
• Very talkative
• Racing thoughts
• Easily distracted
• Very focused on achieving goals
• Doing things that might have negative consequences, such as going on big shopping sprees
• Feeling down/depressed mood
• Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy
• Appetite changes with weight loss or gain
• Purposeless movement like pacing
• Fatigue/low energy
• Feeling worthless/guilty
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

What causes bipolar disorder?

Some of the causes of bipolar include:

• Extreme stress
• Overwhelming problems
• Life-changing events
• Genetic and chemical factors

What can I do to manage bipolar disorders?

You can do the following to help you manage bipolar disorders:

• Stay connected with friends and family. This can boost your moods and keep you energized. 
• Learn and read about bipolar
• Talk to a trusted friend, adult, or family 
• Seek help from a professional counselor
• Engage in copying skills to control symptoms or reduce your risk for a mood episode. They may involve activities that help you feel calm, stay connected to others, practice healthy habits, and engage interests.
• Eat healthily and exercise
• Find out what triggers your mood episode so you know when it’s likely to pop up
• Maintain a stable sleep pattern 
• Do not use alcohol or illegal drugs
• Reduce stress at home and at work.
• Continue treatment as advised by your healthcare provider

If you're worried about your bipolar disorder, it's important to seek help as soon as possible.

Talking with someone, or a counselor can really help.