Bipolar mania is a symptom of bipolar disorder, characterized by elevated or irritable moods, behavioral changes, and followed by depression. It can cause relationship problems, substance abuse, and health issues. Treatment involves medication and therapy.
Bipolar mania is one of the main symptoms of bipolar mood disorder, also known as manic depression. During a manic episode, people typically experience elevated or irritable moods. They also tend to experience behavioral changes, such as sleeping less than usual or acting impulsively. Mania is often followed by a bout of depression.
The symptoms of bipolar mania vary from person to person. Typical symptoms may include an overly happy, extroverted mood, or feeling “high.” Some people with bipolar disorder report feeling jittery and irritable. Changes in behavior are common, such as being easily distracted, taking on ambitious new projects, engaging in risky activities, talking too much or too fast, or confusing thoughts. People with mania may feel unusually restless and not be able to sleep.
Manic episodes can be problematic for the person with bipolar disorder, as well as family and friends. Bipolar mania can threaten relationships due to the person’s increased irritability and excited mood. Some people get into fights, put themselves in danger, or break the law during a manic episode.
For a person with bipolar disorder, a manic episode is often followed by a depressive episode. The highs of bipolar mania are typically replaced by sad, empty feelings. Irritability may remain, but the person may feel sluggish and unable to concentrate. The mood changes are often so severe that some people with bipolar disorder may consider or attempt suicide.
Untreated bipolar disorder tends to get worse over time. Many problems are associated with bipolar mania, including substance abuse, relationship problems, and poor performance at work or in school. Anxiety disorders, OCD, and other mood disorders often coexist with bipolar disorder. An elevated risk of health problems including migraines, heart disease, thyroid conditions, or diabetes is linked to bipolar disorder.
There is no cure for manic depression; however, it is possible to cope with bipolar disorder through treatment. Bipolar treatment typically involves medication. Mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to treat manic depression. These medications can cause potentially serious side effects, so people with bipolar disorder should talk to their doctors about treatment options and potential risks.
Another treatment for bipolar disorder is therapy. Counseling sessions with a licensed psychologist or attending bipolar support group meetings can sometimes help change the thought patterns or behaviors associated with bipolar mania. Family and friends can also benefit from therapy. In many cases, the therapy is most effective when combined with bipolar medications.
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