BIPOLAR - SYMPTOMS?

[cowgirlnerd]

So many times, the question of "Am I BiPolar?" comes up in the forum.  I get an update on information periodically on the BiPolar issues we that have been diagnosed have and will encounter.

This month, the article was really interesting for 2 reasons:
1)  Warning signs of depression.
          A)  When we are in the midst of our episode, it's sometimes hard to see the slipping into depression.
          B)  Others might need to see the warning signs to help us.
2)  It explains the affects of our illness in good detail for our loved ones (as well as those trying to answer the questions?)

Check it out and see what you think.

http://bipolar.about.com/cs/depressive/a/red_flags2.htm?nl=1

[cowgirlnerd]

You are very welcome.  As we get more educated on the illness, we can hopefully erase some stigmas associated with the illness.  

I have seen so many times people that just are curious about if they might have the illness, or how to explain to their friends and family.

[monkeyc]

Im glad you found them helpfull, Ive given a print out of the OBAD book to several people over the last few years as its an excellent way to educate someone about BP.

[vdp]

I checked out Black Dog Insitiute and the book at OBAD earlier today after one of your commentsand I found them great when talking to my mum as I never really felt she understood before so a big THANK YOU! I will certainly be checking out the newsletter.

[monkeyc]

We get the same newsletter :)

Another very useful resource is the Australian based Black Dog Institute - They have a lot of info on Bipolar along with a quick online test which helps rate how you are feeling now .

Yu can find their website here :  http://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/public/bipolardisorder/bipolardisorderexplained/index.cfm

and the self test is here : http://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/public/bipolardisorder/howtotell/self-testing.cfm