Bipolar Disorder
What is it?
Know the Facts
Symptoms
Know the facts
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90% of individuals with bipolar disorder develop it by age 20
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5.7 million Americans live with bipolar disorder in a given year
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More than 2/3 of people with bipolar disorder have at least one close relative with the disorder
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It is important to offer support and understanding to people living with bipolar disorder
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Scientists don't know what causes bipolar disorder but most agree that many factors likely act together to produce the illness or increase risk
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Bipolar disorder is treatable with medication and therapy, including group, family, and individual therapy
Bipolar Disorder: What is it?
Bipolar disorder or manic-depression causes major shift in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. The disorder causes people to cycle between feelings of severe sadness and hopelessness (depression), and feelings of intense euphoria (mania). Symptoms of bipolar disorder can result in damaged relationships, risk-taking behaviors, and even suicide. There are effective treatments for bipolar disorder and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
Symptoms
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Long periods of sadness
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Feelings of hopelessness
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Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
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Fatigue and changes in sleep habits