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Recognizing the diversity of types and intensities of mood episodes, the DSM-IV-TR (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the book that describes mental health diagnoses) has subdivided the diagnosis of bipolar disorder into four basic categories, each defined … Continue reading →

Just as the manic aspect of bipolar disorder is associated with manic episodes, the depressive aspect of bipolar disorder is likewise associated with depressive episodes. The severe form of depressive episode is known as a Major Depressive Episode. Major depressive … Continue reading →

Not everyone who becomes manic experiences the full-blown syndrome of a manic episode. Hypomanic individuals show an expansive, energized and sometimes elated mood, with rapid thinking and pressured speaking in evidence. At a minimum (for the label hypomania to be … Continue reading →

Although popular culture tends to equate mania with happiness and depression with sadness this isn’t really the best way to think about what is happening in bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disorder involves not so much a swing between happy and sad … Continue reading →

Mood Swings vs. Mood Disorders – Discovering Bipolar Disorder People use the term mood to describe the emotional tones that color their daily lives. Moods are everywhere and ubiquitous; everyone has them. Moods may be happy or sad; energized or … Continue reading →

Symptoms of Mania Increased physical and mental energy Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism ans self-confidence Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior Racing speech, thoughts, and flight of ideas Reckless behavior

Symptoms of Depression Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells, profound hopelessness Significant change in appetite and sleep patterns Irritability, Anger, Worry, Agitation, Anxiety Pessimism, loss of energy, persistent lethargy Feelings of guilt and worthlessness Inability to concentrate Recurring thoughts of … Continue reading →

Bipolar Disorder: Preventing Manic Episodes Introduction The more you know about bipolar disorder, the better you will be able to cope with this lifelong illness. There are many steps that you can take—or help a loved one take—to recognize and … Continue reading →

Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder Topic Overview   What are panic attacks and panic disorder? A panic attack is a sudden, intense fear or anxiety that may make you short of breath or dizzy or make your heart pound. You … Continue reading →

The two types of medicines used most often are antidepressants and benzodiazepines. Some people use both.   Antidepressants. These include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as citalopram, paroxetine, or sertraline. These are the most common medicines for panic disorder. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), … Continue reading →