Bi-polar has also been called manic-depression. This is identified by the dramatic mood swings that an individual with the disorder experiences.
When heading into a manic mode, they experience an increased burst in energy, racing thoughts, and find difficulty in sleeping. In some instances the person may exude increased sexual desires, promiscuity, excessive spending or gambling, may become irritable and take on riskier chances than others without the disease. It is when the individual is in this state that they sometimes do not feel the need to take their medication. This manic mode is only a symptom of the disease and should not be viewed as a permanent state of mind. It is very important that medication be continued.
When heading into a depressive state, the person feels a sense of worthlessness, no hope, anxiety, lack of sexual interests, and their sleeping and eating habits may change. It is in this state that there is a high risk that they may experience suicidal thoughts and tendencies, and in severe cases the person could become psychotic.
For family members, these mood swings are extremely difficult to understand. The individual with Bi-Polar does not have control of their thoughts or actions when the episodes are occurring. They do not have the ability to pull themselves out of the depressed state, nor do they have the capability to identify and control their behaviors when in the manic mode.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease, only treatment. There are a lot of misconceptions about the manic-depressive disease but today, with Doctor's care, along with therapeutic treatment, these individuals do have the possibility of leading a normal life.
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