Bipolar Illness - Mania
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.
Treatment Plans - Support
People with bipolar disorder must be made to realize that they are not alone. With the right and proper treatment plan their illness can be controlled. By communicating in a support group, with a therapist or a moderator they can improve their lives and learn from each other on how other patients are coping with their illness. Friendship can be accomplished with other bipolar patients because they know they are in the same boat, the bipolar disorder sufferers. Finding a support group with the same problem can help in their isolation and loneliness by their interaction.
Online support groups for patients with bipolar disorders can also be found. This is where forums are offered for you to talk about anything you are experiencing, such as sleeplessness, depression, racing thoughts, or any other feelings. You may find out new ways to help deal with your problems by reading about what others are experiencing and how they are dealing with their illness. You may also help others cope by sharing how you deal with certain phases of your illness; this may also help you feel good about yourself. Be sure to make friends who will be there for you when you need them.
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.
