Bipolar

Bipolar Disorder. It is a very touchy subject to talk about. Many people think it is a mental disorder. When in fact it is a mood disorder. I found some interesting facts about bipolar disorder and I would like to share them.

• Approximately 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives.
• About 1% of Canadians will experience bipolar disorder (or “manic depression”).
•  A complex interplay of genetic, biological, personality and environmental factors causes mental illnesses.
• Almost one half (49%) of those who feel they have suffered from depression or anxiety have never gone to see a doctor about this problem.
• Stigma or discrimination attached to mental illnesses presents a serious barrier, not only to diagnosis and treatment but also to acceptance in the community.
• When people have bipolar disorder, their brain works differently from the usual way. Our brains help us to think, feel and act in certain ways. When people have bipolar disorder, they think, feel and act differently from how they do when they’re well.
   
• There is almost always two different phases with bipolar disorder — lows called depression and highs called mania. During a low phase, the person is sad and often withdrawn. This is called depression. During a high phase, the person is either way too happy or way too angry. 
• The person is very energetic and more outgoing than usual. This is called mania. At other times, the person is his or her usual self.
   
• Bipolar disorder can vary from person to person — it can be mild, or it can be a more difficult struggle.

As someone who has this disorder, I shared this as a way to help you understand.

Having bipolar disorder is not a weakness.