Saturday, January 24, 2009

Bipolar Disease - Mania

By Ken P Doyle

Manic depression or bipolar disorder causes mood swings that are severe. The two main mood swings are mania, which can be extremely euphoric or excited mood state to a severe state of depression. Psychosis can progress from the manic phase. In psychosis their sense of reality is changed and they become a danger not only to themselves but also to others. At this stage of the illness delusions and hallucinations may be experienced. Severe depression is likely to be followed after the mania phase has passed. When the depression is so severe reality becomes unreal and they usually withdraw and isolate themselves for days, sometimes weeks. At the depression state they are the most dangerous because they are more vulnerable to committing suicide or hurting themselves.

Groups for Support

Bipolar sufferers must come to realize that they are not alone and, with the proper treatment plan, their condition can be controlled. The patient can learn how others with bipolar disorder cope with their mood swings and improve their lives by joining support groups guided by a therapist or other moderator. They will be able to make friends with other bipolar sufferers who know what it feels like to live with the disorder and give them that sense of companionship. If you are suffering from bipolar mania then it is very important that you fond a support group. It will help greatly to interact with others with the same problems and will help you get through the agony of loneliness and isolation being experienced.

You can find many online support groups for persons with bipolar disorder. They offer a forum where you can talk about anything you are experiencing, racing thoughts, depression, sleeplessness or any feelings you have. You can read what others are experiencing and how they are dealing with the illness. Help others cope by sharing how you deal with certain phases of your illness. Make friends who will be there for you when you need them. Help other sufferers by sharing ways of coping with your mood changes. Many users offer useful tips and advice from their own experiences associated with bipolar mania.

Substance Abuse Dangers

Alcohol and drug abuse is common in a person suffering from bipolar disorder. They use and abuse these drugs to try to ease the suffering that bipolar disorder brings. This makes a diagnosis of the condition more difficult. Support groups are very effective for bipolar patients who also abuse drugs or alcohol. The substance abuse issues are addressed as well as coping with the severe mood changes associated with bipolar mania. Medication should be combined with therapy for best results. It is important to find the right combination of treatments to fit each individual case.

Having the support of friends and family members is also a very important aspect. Friends and family will understand the disorder better through support groups as well. This gives them new ideas in finding ways to help and support their loved ones get through their suffering. It is especially helpful to those patients who dont feel comfortable sharing their problems in a group setting. Given this situation, they will benefit greatly from individual therapy with the goal of being prepared to face group therapy in the future. - 16004

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