Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Affective disorder is a mood disorder thought to be related to biochemical imbalances. It involves major swings in mood from mania, feeling speedy and high, to depression, feeling very down and unmotivated. Some people with Bipolar illness experience more highs than lows and vise versa. An episode of mania may be followed by a period of depression or a period of stability, the length of which varies from individual to individual. Many people with Bipolar illness respond well to Lithium, a kind of salt the body needs in a certain amount to function normally. Others have a negative reaction to Lithium, and finding the right medication or treatment program may be more difficult. Mood stabilizers, anti-depressant medication and social programs are the most common treatments besides Lithium. Orthomolecular therapy has also been used for treating bipolar illness. Margot Kidder, the actress, is one example of someone who has successfully treated bipolar illness using orthomolecular therapy.

The age of onset is usually in the early twenties but the illness may be diagnosed later. It tends to run in families and is more common in females than males.

"Having Bipolar affective disorder requires constant vigilance. I must observe for changes in my mood or sleeping habits that indicate approaching a manic or depressive episode; getting less than 5 hours sleep each night may indicate approaching mania, and more than I hours sleep each night may alert me to an onset of depression. I rely on trusted friends and family to cue me when they observe changes in me, and as a team we treat my condition in the appropriate way."

- Diane, Palm Springs (CA)

Paths to Wellness

For People Affected by Mental Illness and Addiction

Bipolar Disorder