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The basic definition of Bipolar disorder as stated by Melissa Spearing of NIMH says, "Bipolar 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 definition is very basic; though the effects or symptoms that this illness can have on someone could be deadly. The list of symptoms can range from anywhere from feeling restless to having rapid mood swings and even provoking the most serious matter; thoughts of suicide. Spearing states that, "It is an illness that is biological in its origins, yet one that feels psychological in the experience of it; an illness that is unique in conferring advantage and pleasure, yet one that brings in its wake almost unendurable suffering, and suicide." It isn't uncommon when a person who is suffering from a bipolar disorder feels happy and energetic and full of life at a certain time and then instantly feels thoughts of anger, worry, and despair which in fact cause depression to set in. That is why many people with this disorder seem to take on two completely different personalities.

Treatments for Bipolar disorder are numerous and at times can be even more dangerous to an individual if not taken properly. The two most commonly used medications out on the market today are lithium and valproate. The chemicals work as a mood stabilizer and reduce the individual's chances of going into episodes of mania. According to www.bipolar.com "Once someone is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, treatment usually begins immediately." Unlike any other illness bipolar disorder is very serious and needs to be cured in a timely fashion the effects of it continuing without treatment could lead to fatal consequences, but many times due to misdiagnoses and the unwillingness of patients to participate in treatment the disease takes over and ruins lives.
Charles L. Bowden a MD states, "Fewer than 1 of 3 people with bipolar illness in the US receive treatment, mainly because of missed diagnosis and an unwillingness to acknowledge symptoms." This is due to the fact that this disorder has hide and seek effect and it can be very hard for a doctor to immediately diagnose the problem with the patient. Other treatments include a therapeutic regimen that can be used along side the medication to prevent depression but cannot be used alone; medication is a must for all suffers of Bipolar disorder. Since Bipolar disorder is a long-term illness patients are usually advised to continue taking medication for years even if the symptoms disappear rapidly upon use.
The most important thing a person can do to battle this kind of disorder is to get help and follow all guidelines set by their mental health professional. Facing the illness is the first giant leap to getting better and since it can be cured many people that were once affected by it now live healthy happy lives.

Learn more about this author, Seth Renevier.
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