Bipolar Disorder characterized by mood swings between states of extreme elation and severe depression. Formerly called Manic-Depression Bipolar I DisorderBipolar II Disorder Has experienced the following: One or more full Manic Episode One or more Major depressive episodes may appear later on Has experience the following: One or more major depressive episode At least one Hypomanic episode (never a full-blown manic episode)

Manic Episode Definition : Period of unrealistically heightened euphoria, extreme restlessness, and excessive activity characterized by disorganized behavior and impaired judgment. Pressured Speech Outpouring of speech in which words seem to surge urgently for expression, as in a manic state Rapid Flight of Ideas Characteristic of manic behavior involving rapid speech and changes of topic

Depressive Episode Depressive episode can only be diagnosed after two weeks after several symptoms have been noted Person experiences: Lack of Appetite Lack of interest Loss of pleasure in all or virtually all activities Lose of gain substantial amounts of weight Become physically agitated Depressed Mood A significant loss of gain of weight Insomnia or Hypersomina Reduced ability to concentrate or think clearly Greatly Reduced Sense of Pleasure Excessive agitation or slowing down Feelings of Fatigue Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Who is likely to get this disorder? Men and Women Equally Around the Age of 20’s Substance Abuse Problems Sleep Problems Family with this problem

Bipolar Disorder People who are Stressed so that their sleep cycles changed Episodes last roughly a week Two stages “MANIC” followed by “Depression” known as a Women tend to Cycle Quicker then Men

Celebrities have been known to function quite well with BD it almost helps them The Majority would not wish to loose the disorder The Patient will show these symptoms when manic; racing thoughts, poor judgment, distractibility. Symptoms of depression; anxiety, guilt, fatigue, lack of interest

Organization Mood Disorders Association of Ontario Niagara region branch has support group meetings monthly in St. Catharines Canadian Mental Health Association CMHA Niagara Branch located in St. Catharines - Other locations in Niagara Falls and Fort Erie

Centres

Online refuge.org Harbour of Refuge Bipolar Significant Others derscanada.ca/forum / Mood Disorders Society

Call Lines St. Catharines, Niagara Falls Area: Distress Centre Niagara Mental Health Helpline