dealing with bipolar patients
Nancy was doing very well until about two years ago when Phil, her boyfriend of 9 years, broke-with her. It was a difficult moment for her, especially after she learned that Phil eventually married her cousin. Since then, Nancy had deteriorated. One night, he was involved in a motor vehicle accident because driving fast and recklessly in a quiet residential area.
During questioning, police said Nancy was talking rapidly and nobody could interrupt her. Besides, she was joking and laughing so hard. He indicated that those who were on their way to meet President and senior officials of his invention that could cure the oil crisis. She eventually ended up in the emergency room where he was the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder after intensive evaluation.
Bipolar disorder or manic-depression is manifested by highs and lows. When a patient like Nancy is on the manic side, there is a persistent feeling of euphoria or irritability associated with lack of need for sleep, excessive energy, agitation, fast and strong speech, increased goal-directed activities, such as overspending and start-ups without a proper plan, and hypersexuality.
Patients with this trial disorder and impulsivity. They become irritable and can lash out easily even if not provoked. Some patients have delusions of grandeur. When this happens, patients believe they have special abilities, talents, and influence.
When not manic, patients feel normal or depressed. Depression in bipolar disorder has the same manifestation as major depression, which involves feelings of sadness associated with neurovegetative signs and symptoms such as inability to sleep, eat and concentrate. The energy level is also impaired. In addition, patients experience a feeling of hopelessness, worthlessness and helplessness. Suicidal ideation may ensue.
For individuals who develop mania, does not always mean you have bipolar disorder?
Not necessarily. Mania can be caused for various medical and neurological conditions. For example, multiple sclerosis and stroke can present with manic symptoms. Moreover, the medicines and illegal drugs can trigger mania. Steroids, cocaine and amphetamines are examples. Even some antidepressants can induce mania.
So when a person shows the mania, the physician usually does intensive evaluation to rule out medical conditions, drug-induced neurological and before diagnosing bipolar disorder. This process is important because treatment varies depending on the cause. Once you rule out other conditions, then bipolar disorder can be diagnosed and treated safely.
About the Author:
Copyright © 2007. Dr. Michael G. Rayel – author (A 31-Day Series and First Aid to Mental Illness) psychiatrist, and inventor of emotional and social skills games — The Oikos Game Series and The CEO. Since 2005, he has published Oikos’ Insights! http://www.oikosinsights.com as an online resource for personal development. For more information, visit http://www.oikosglobal.com
