Mental Health: Bi-Polar Disorder
Bi-Polar Disorder refers to extreme variations in mood between manic episodes and symptoms concurrent with Major Depression. Having all the symptomatic features of Major Depressive Disorder, Bi-Polar Disorder includes elevated mood where there is presence of impulsive behavior, overactive speech, impoverished judgment and a decreased need for sleep.
Genetics, family history, environmental stress, and biochemical disturbances all may play a role in the onset of Bipolar Disorder. Medical research indicates that depression may be linked to imbalances of the brain’s chemical messengers, called neurotransmitters.
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| Brain function by SPECT scan in person with Bipolar Disorder. |
Brain function by SPECT scan in healthy brain.
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Diagnosis:
Bipolar disorder involves at least one manic episode, which is determined by at least
three of the symptoms described below , and usually one or more major depressive episodes with at least five of the symptoms described under
major depression.
Medication can help regulate the symptoms of Bi-Polar Disorder. Seeking specialized professional therapy and strictly following a treatment plan are keys to overcoming mental illness.
For information about TPMHMR Adult Mental Health Services and how we can help, click on the link below:
Or call our Crisis Line at 359-6699 (in the Amarillo area)
or toll-free at 1-800-692-4039
Information on this page posted with permission of the Texas Department of State Health Services http://www.dshs.state.tx.us
