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Bipolar Disorder was previously called manic-depressive disorder. This means the individual suffers from a cycle of manic symptoms and depressive symptoms. The cycle can be as short as minutes to hours or days. When an individual is in the depressive state, they suffer from the symptoms mentioned in the previous disorder. When the person is in the manic state, they suffer from thoughts of grandiosity.
The manic episode is characterized by heightened self esteem, restlessness, pressured speech or speaking fast, feelings of euphoria, and irritability. The individual can become involved in risky business ventures, indiscreet sexual behavior, and questionable religious or political activities.
Heightened self esteem can become grandiose to the point that it is delusional. The individual believe that they can advise presidents and solve the problem of world hunger (Morrison, 1995). Manic individuals typically report feeling rested on little sleep. Sleep time seems wasted, they prefer to pursue their many projects. These individuals are eager to tell anyone who will listen about their ideas, plans and work, and they do so in speech that is loud and difficult to interrupt (Morrison, 1995).
Manic episodes typically wreak havoc on the lives of individuals and all those who associate with them. Although productivity at work (or school) may initially improve, as mania worsens an individual becomes less and less able to complete projects. Friendships are strained by arguments. Sexual entanglements can result in disease and unwanted pregnancy. Even when the episode has resolved, guilt and recriminations remain behind. Bipolar Disorder is strongly hereditary (Morrison, 1995).
Bipolar Disorder is treated by helping the individual identify the thoughts behind the manic or depressive episode. They are taught to notice when in a manic or depressed state and dispute their thoughts, and come up with rational alternatives and coping statements. This is difficult for the bipolar client because of the shifts in mood.
Physical Symptoms of manic 1.Restlessness, inability to sleep
2.Heightened self esteem
3.Difficulty concentrating
4.Irritability
5.Speaking fast
6.Euphoria
7.Risky sexual behavior
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