Did You Know - Understanding Bipolar

Posted by Share Lawyers on October 3rd, 2017

Bi-polar is a mood disorder that affects 1.5 percent of Canadians. It is often, though not exclusively  diagnosed in those in their late teens and early twenties, and is characterized by mood swings, from very low depressive states to high energy manic states.

Because of the wide changes in mood, energy levels, and it can be very hard to predict the actions and capabilities or someone with bipolar - this can be confusing and initially scary for many, including friends and loved ones of those who are suffering.

Learning more about Bipolar is the first step to understanding how best to help those with the disorder, and how to encourage fair and considerate treatment.

• Bipolar is not curable, but treatable through medication and talk therapy.
• Though Bipolar has possible genetic patterns, one's lifestyle and environment also plays a role in the likelihood of developing the disorder.
• Symptoms of Bipolar can vary greatly, however the cycle between depression and mania is often the tell-tale sign of the disorder.
• Other symptoms of Bipolar can include: problems with movement, hearing voices, and losing touch with reality.
• Because of the variety of symptoms, those with bipolar are often misdiagnosed with other disorders such as depression and schizophrenia.
• Many living with Bipolar also have other diagnosis, such as anxiety and ADHD.
• With the right treatment, many people with Bipolar can live a normal life.

This information is brought to you by Share Lawyers, Ontario's Leading Disability Insurance Lawyers.

Sources:
https://mindyourmind.ca
http://www.camh.ca