Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive disorder, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function.

Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. Untreated bipolar disorder can result in severe negative consequences. Here is good news: bipolar disorder is very treatable, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.

About 5.7 million American adults, or about 2.6 percent of the population, age 18 and older in any given year, have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, some people have their first symptoms during childhood, and some develop them late in life. It is often not recognized as an illness, and people may suffer for years before it is properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout a person’s life.

As mentioned, Bipolar disorder is a condition that involves extreme changes in mood and periods of mania which can be recognized as elevated or irritable mood. Good news though, it is treatable. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that can affect many aspects of a person’s life so finding a trustworthy therapist and staying in regular contact with them can help. Staying connected, educating yourself, tracking symptoms, using coping skills, establishing a routine and developing a crisis plan are all things a trained therapist can help with. We hope that you can find that here at Essentially You Counseling and Wellness Services.

Oh and Remember that self-care isnt an indulgence. Do it! and do it often!!