how do you know if you bipolar?
830027
Internet or self diagnosis is dangerous, so you need to see a doctor, but first read some background and see if it really fits...\n\nOK, so it's a mood disorder and a serious mental illness. It has a strong genetic component, but appears to be triggered environmentally. There are no diagnostic tests for it, just psychiatric evaluation. Most sufferers are not diagnosed until middle age, and it takes an average of around 8-10 years to get a correct diagnosis. Historically, figures suggested it affects about 0.8% of the population at some point, which makes it about half as common as schizophrenia. In recent years, bipolar disorder has become an 'in' diagnosis, and many more people are being diagnosed at younger and younger ages. As with ADHD, this fad may well pass with time, although for the moment many celebrities appear to be 'popularising' it.\n\nIt is characterised by episodes of severe clinical depression and mania or hypomania (for definitions of those, see here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Current_diagnostic_criteria_for_bipolar_disorder ). The extreme end of mania often turns into psychosis, complete with hallucinations and delusions. During manic phases, the person's judgement and perception of reality is severely compromised, leading to risky actions with potentially damaging consequences (financially, sexually and relationship-wise). Untreated, episodes generally worsen over time due to an effect known as kindling. Untreated Bipolar sufferers are at a very high risk of suicide: 20-25% attempt it, and 15% succeed.\n\nThe cycles in bipolar disorder are much longer than people generally believe. Anyone whose mood changes from minute to minute is very unlikely to be bipolar. Bipolar 1 is characterised by mood episodes lasting many months, while Bipolar 2 has episodes in the region of weeks to months. Rapid and ultra-rapid cycling bipolar disorder is rare, and cycles last days to weeks.\n\nThere are many drugs available to treat the symptoms of bipolar (there is no cure). These are either anti-convulsants or anti-psychotics (personally I take both), and the most well known of these is Lithium. Most patients will go through a number of different drugs before finding one that works for them.
399050
God still heals.\n\nOften in cases that appear to be bipolar, simply doing what's right. . .living for God will take care of it.  I've seen it happen.
778810
Far fewer people are bipolar than you may think...\n\nOK, so it's a mood disorder and a serious mental illness. It has a strong genetic component, but appears to be triggered environmentally. There are no diagnostic tests for it, just psychiatric evaluation. Most sufferers are not diagnosed until middle age, and it takes an average of around 8-10 years to get a correct diagnosis. Historically, figures suggested it affects about 0.8% of the population at some point, which makes it about half as common as schizophrenia. In recent years, bipolar disorder has become an 'in' diagnosis, and many more people are being diagnosed at younger and younger ages. As with ADHD, this fad may well pass with time, although for the moment many celebrities appear to be 'popularising' it.\n\nIt is characterised by episodes of severe clinical depression and mania or hypomania (for definitions of those, see here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Current_diagnostic_criteria_for_bipolar_disorder ). The extreme end of mania often turns into psychosis, complete with hallucinations and delusions. During manic phases, the person's judgement and perception of reality is severely compromised, leading to risky actions with potentially damaging consequences (financially, sexually and relationship-wise). Untreated, episodes generally worsen over time due to an effect known as kindling. Untreated Bipolar sufferers are at a very high risk of suicide: 20-25% attempt it, and 15% succeed.\n\nThe cycles in bipolar disorder are much longer than people generally believe. Anyone whose mood changes from minute to minute is very unlikely to be bipolar. Bipolar 1 is characterised by mood episodes lasting many months, while Bipolar 2 has episodes in the region of weeks to months. Rapid and ultra-rapid cycling bipolar disorder is rare, and cycles last days to weeks.\n\nThere are many drugs available to treat the symptoms of bipolar (there is no cure). These are either anti-convulsants or anti-psychotics (personally I take both), and the most well known of these is Lithium. Most patients will go through a number of different drugs before finding one that works for them.
390810
No. I'm polar.In fact, I'm bipolar. I'm sorry I can't tell you anything about it, but maybe the link below can.\n\nI hope this is helpful. Good luck.\n\nSincerely,\nTerry
1132280
No, a person does not have to be suicidal to be bipolar.  Also there are many different types of bipolar.  Type 1s generally is what most people think of when the hear the word bipolar...it has the manic highs and depressed lows.  Type 2s are the more docile of the types...more low lows and low to medium highs.  Generally speaking people with type 2 bipolar are often misdiagnosed as having depression or even cyclothymic disorder.  Ask you doctor to screen you for Type 2 Bipolar and check out www.nami.org.
624227
it seems you have bipolar symdrom. go to the doctor
380882
Major depressive disorder—what people commonly call “depression”—and bipolar disorder do have some symptoms in common. However, they are two different conditions that require different treatments. \n\nIn general, major depressive disorder involves overwhelming feelings of sadness, worthlessness and hopelessness. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression but also episodes of mania—symptoms of which can include excessive energy, extreme irritability or “out of control” behavior. (People with depression do not experience manic episodes.)
748996
I have been bipolar for 10 years now. There's alot of info on bipolar,but I will tell you what I know. Bipolar is an embalance in the brain. One minute your happy and nothing can get you down. It's like your high. Then the next minute your so depressed that your crying all the time thinking your worthless and nothing is going to get better and your better off dead. There are alot of good meds out there today for people with this problem, and they help. If you stay on them. Hope this helps.
34075
Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression) \n\nAnother type of depression is bipolar disorder, which was formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression. This condition shows a particular pattern of inheritance. Not nearly as common as the other types of depressive disorders, bipolar disorder involves cycles of depression and mania, or elation. Bipolar disorder is often a chronic, recurring condition. Sometimes, the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but most often they are gradual.\n\nWhen in the depressed cycle, the person can experience any or all of the symptoms of a depressive disorder. When in the manic cycle, any or all of the symptoms listed under mania may be experienced. Mania often affects thinking, judgment, and social behavior in ways that cause serious problems and embarrassment. For example, unwise business or financial decisions may be made when an individual is in a manic phase.\n\nA significant variant of bipolar disorder is designated as bipolar II. (The usual form of bipolar disorder is referred to as bipolar I.) Bipolar II is a syndrome in which the affected person has repeated depressive episodes punctuated by what is called hypomania (mini-highs). These euphoric states in bipolar II do not fully meet the criteria for the complete manic episodes that occur in bipolar I. \n\nDepression Symptoms of Manic Depression\n\nPersistently sad, anxious, or "empty" mood. \nFeelings of hopelessness, pessimism. \nFeelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness. \nLoss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex. \nInsomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping. \nDecreased appetite and/or weight loss, or overeating and weight gain. \nFatigue, decreased energy, being "slowed down." \nThoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts. \nRestlessness, irritability. \nDifficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions. \nPersistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.\nMania Symptoms of Manic Depression\n\nInappropriate elation. \nInappropriate irritability. \nSevere insomnia. \nGrandiose notions. \nIncreased talking speed and/or volume. \nDisconnected and racing thoughts. \nIncreased sexual desire. \nMarkedly increased energy. \nPoor judgment. \nInappropriate social behavior.
989086
It could be a sign of depression.  I disagree with the possible diagnosis of bipolar because it sounds like you are angry, not manic.  There is a difference.  (The actual prevalence of Bipolar is only about 1-2% anyway) However, do not go by my rudimentary assessment alone because I have never met you.  \n\nAnger is a sign of depression.  Its very common with young children, although I understand you are 20.  Everyone deals with depression in their own ways.  Some people internalize it.  They brood and cry and sleep all day.  They tend to dwell on themselves and their lives.  Other people externalize it.  Rather than look inside themselves, for these people, it's so much easier to blame others or lash out at other people. \n\nOne of the problem with depression is that some people don't know how to cope with it.  The internalizers may bottle it all up, but they will release it by crying.  The externalizers may bottle it all up, and like a bottle of soda, all it takes is just a little bit of shaking to make them explode.  \n\nThere could be many reasons for your anger and the fact that you recognize it as a problem is a good sign.  The only way for you to know is to seek the help of a professional.
802467
Some symptoms of Bipolar Disorder Type (2) not to be confused with Type (1) Big Difference.I have type (2) it can be controlled and there is help it just takes them a while as they have to be certain it Bipolar,thats why it takes along time until they finally say yes it is.\nnext time your at the doc ask for another referral to psychiatrist and Do Not withhold any info from them they need to no everything.\nAll the best\n\nDoctor is not the expert you need psychiatrists
71762
No, Bipolar Disease is a chemical imbalance of the brain and it can never go away, but it CAN be effectively treated with a consistant regimen.  Many people really LOVE the High they feel when they are in the Manic part of the illness, that is why so  many people stop treatment.  \n\nThe Manic phase can make you feel almost superhuman, tons of energy, etc.  But This is a false perception as this get people into a lot of trouble financially, socially and in countless other ways.
137627
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder, sufferers experience mood swings that are far beyond what most normal people do.
450182
I was diagnosed with Bipolar a couple years ago. I've been put on different medications ,ect. None of which truely worked for me. Side effects :( either was zoned out, uber hyper, or had tremors. I actually have done better with out pills then with them. I think it depends on the case. I used to cry almost everyday, mood swings within minutes, suicidal thoughts. Now im fine.Though, i still have my moodiness, from extremely happy to depressed from time to time. You never know if its just Hormones , a phase. If you go to a psychiatrist, of course they are gonna put you on anti depressants. Try relying on yourself, and if you get suicidal thoughts,know that there are people who care about you  and would be extremely disappointed if you were gone.Try talking to a regular counselor about this or a doctor.
92587
Talk to you psychiatrist.  The most notable clinical feature of bipolar disorder is dramatic mood swings.  As compared to an anxiety disorder or depression where your moods will may be impacted by external factors, but will otherwise remain relatively level, in bipolar disorder patients cycle through periods of mania and depression.  But you should really really talk to your psychiatrist - I assure you he or she knows a lot more about it that I do.  Also, antidepressents effect your mood (obviously - that's the whole point), and may be responsible for some or all of you symptoms.  Your doctor may want to try a different anti-depressent or take you off them entirely for a while before deciding on a new diagnosis.\n\nPS. Anti-depressants are a standard treatment for anxiety disorders.
1174473
SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER \n\nSymptoms of the Depression Phase \n\nThe symptoms of depression experienced in bipolar disorder are almost identical to those of major depression, the primary form of unipolar depressive disorder. They include the following: \nSad mood. \n\n\nFatigue or loss of energy. \n\n\nSleep problems (insomnia, excessive sleeping, or shallow sleep with frequent awakenings). \n\n\nWeight changes (either gain or loss). \n\n\nDiminished ability to concentrate or make decisions. \n\n\nAgitation or markedly sedentary behavior. \n\n\nFeelings of guilt, pessimism, helplessness, and low self-esteem. \n\n\nLoss of interest or pleasure in life. \n\n\nThoughts of, or attempts at, suicide. \nDepressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder often differ from those of unipolar depressive disorder in the following ways: \nPeople with unipolar depression can still experience a variety of moods, but the moods are neither elevated nor pathological and the affected person does not meet the criteria for mania. [ See Well-Connected Report #8, Depression.]\n\n\nEpisodes of depression in bipolar disorder are less likely to have a specific trigger than are those with major depression disorder. \n\n\nBipolar depression does not typically last as long as major depression (although left untreated some bipolar disorder episodes can still last six to 12 months). \n\n\nBipolar depressive episodes develop more gradually than those caused by major depression. \n\n\nDepressive symptoms in bipolar disorder patients also tend to be atypical, i.e., one sees an increase in sleep and appetite, a feeling of heaviness and slowness in the body, a tendency to feel rejected, and a preservation of volatile mood. \n\n\nOne interesting study reported that many bipolar disorder patients experienced dreams of death at the low point of their depression, and those dreams were soon followed by an upward mood change. \nSymptoms of the Acute Manic Phase \n\nThe acute manic phase is always characterized by mood elevation, either presented as exaggerated euphoria, irritability, or both. The episode lasts for at least a week or for any duration if it was severe enough to cause hospitalization. \n\nIn addition, certain other symptoms are present to assist in making a diagnosis. Some mental health professionals use the mnemonic device DIGFAST to identify them. \n\nIn general, for a diagnosis of mania, patient must have experienced either euphoria with three DIGFAST symptoms or irritability with four of these symptoms: \nD. Distractibility. This is the most common symptom and is usually characterized by the inability to pay attention to any activity for very long. \n\n\nI. Insomnia in mania typically means having high energy and requiring less sleep. (This differs from insomnia in depression, in which the patient has low energy plus an inability to sleep.) \n\n\nG. Grandiosity. Patients with this symptom have an inflated sense of themselves, which, in severe cases, can be delusional. Close to 60% of all manic patients experience feelings of omnipotence. Sometimes they feel that they are godlike or have celebrity status. \n\n\nF. Flight of ideas. Thoughts literally race. \n\n\nA. Activity. An increase in intensity in goal-directed activities occurs, which is related to social behavior, sexual activity, work, school, or combinations. \n\n\nS. Speech. Excessive talking. Is present \n\n\nT. Thoughtlessness. Excessive involvement in high-risk activities is present (e.g., unrestrained shopping, promiscuity). Mood disturbance may be severe enough to damage one's job or social functioning or relationships with others, or which require hospitalization to prevent harm to others or to the self. \nHypomania. With hypomania the symptoms of mania are milder and of shorter duration (but they last at least four days). They do not affect social or work life as dramatically. \n\nMixed or Pure Mania. Manic episodes themselves can be characterized as mixed mania or pure mani
592319
Bipolar Disease runs in my family, so I always get a little concerned when my moods shift suddenly.  In your case, I would definately suggest talking to someone...doctor, friend, family...its always best to let someone know where your mind and heart are at.  Hormones can also play a big part in your emotions, especially if your menstruating or are pregnant.  I dont know where your from, but Im from MA., and its been raining here for weeks on end.  The weather can also have a strong effect on your moods.  Be well sister!