Bipolar Disorder

Can someone explain to me exactly what bipolar disorder is in layman's terms.  My daughter's teacher has this disorder and also a very good friend of mine.  I would also like to know what the symptoms are.  Thank you very much.

[HFHS MD-JM]

Cheryl,

      Bipolar disorder has been discussed extensively in this forum and I recommend that you search its archives for a complete discussion.  In brief, Bipolar disorder is a mood problem characterized by "mood swings" that are abnormally high(hypomanic, manic)and/or depressed.  These moodswings lead to significant impairment in functioning(work, school, social etc).  Medication such as a mood-stabilizer(lithium, Depakote, Tegretol) are the treatment of choice along with antidepressants at times.  An additional source of information on bipolar disorder can be found at www.ndmda.org which is the National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association (NDMDA).  I hope this was helpful.

Sincerely,

HFHS MD-JM

Keywords: Bipolar disorder, manic depression

[SHIRLEY BOGAR]

I AM ON SEVERAL DIFFERENT TYPES OF MEDICATIONS IM ON DEPACOTE BUSPAR,KLONOPIN,PROZAC AND REMERON.BUT SOMETIMES I STILL GET DEPRESSED.I HAVE ALSO HAD ECT.THEROPY.SO IJUST WONDER IF ANYTHING HELPS.