On World Bipolar Day, let us spread awareness regarding this complicated mental health condition, its symptoms and its impacts on a patient.

Today is World Bipolar Day. This day is marked to raise awareness regarding the life altering bipolar disorder and make more attempts to prevent it when it is at the early stage. Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder which causes mood swings which can be manic depression to manic ecstasy. People who suffer from this disorder may not be capable of controlling these sudden shifts and if the symptoms are too severe, they become a danger to themselves and other around them. Bipolar disorder is very difficult to deal with if the person has not been diagnosed and is dealing with it all by themselves. They may experience a very big shift in their life and lifestyle because of it.

How Does Bipolar Disorder Impact A Person’s Life?

According to the medical Journal WebMD, bipolar disorder can impact a person’s relationships, job, familial ties, sleep, money and overall health. Caring for a bipolar patient can also become mentally taxing for the caregivers. A bipolar patient may not be able to perform every day-to-day task easily, they cognitive function may be impaired and they may not be able to make rational and realistic decisions, they may require assistance in making decision, and going on about daily activities. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, it also may be unsafe for them to travel alone or drive a car. Their actions may at times be dangerous for them or other around them. Because of their condition, they may feel isolated in schools or in the society.

This is why is is extremely crucial that you are completely aware of the ups and downs of this disorder. The ability to recognise and understand what is going on with the patient will aid caregivers assist them as well.

What Are The Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder?

Here are the major symptoms of bipolar disorder as stated by WebMD:

1. Episodes of manic happiness and depression or sadness.
2. Feeling restless most of the time.
3. Racing thoughts and rapid speech.
4. Sudden increases in energy.
5. Sleep problems or sleeplessness.
6. Impulsive decisions of judgements without proper thought.
7. Dangerous and wreckless behaviour that may harm them or others’.
8. Experiencing hallucinations and delusions also known as psychosis.
9. Manic mood swings often accompanied by violence.