People often have common questions about the basics of manic depression. These are some of the most commonly asked questions — and their answers — about manic depression (also known as bipolar disorder):
Is there a test to tell me if I have, or may inherit, bipolar disorder?
Currently, no test can tell a person if he is at risk of developing bipolar disorder. It is unlikely that a single gene will be discovered that is responsible for the illness in all people with bipolar disorder.
Can someone have a medical condition that appears to be bipolar disorder but actually is something else?
Certain conditions mimic mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. Common ones are:
- thyroid conditions
- neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, stroke, or epilepsy
- infections of the brain from conditions such as HIV infection, syphilis,sleep apnea, and lyme disease
- deficiencies of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12
- corticosteroid use, especially in high doses
- medicine used to prevent diseases like tuberculosis and AIDS
Telling your doctor about your medical history and the medications that you are currently taking can help her determine the best course of treatment for helping you.
What if someone I know has bipolar disorder?
Family members may want to express their concern by describing the specific behaviors to that person in a nonjudgmental fashion. The person with the disorder is less able to dismiss the observation if there is a consensus among friends or family members that a distinctive pattern has emerged.
At work, you can reach out to your co-worker (or employee, if you supervise someone with bipolar disorder) in a supportive manner, letting them know you’re there if they need anything. Accommodations may be needed for a person diagnosed with this condition.
If I am diagnosed with bipolar disorder, will I be on medication for the rest of my life?
Not necessarily, as it varies from person to person. Some people may need medication for years, while others may eventually be able to taper off of medications under the supervision of their psychiatrist or doctor.
Generally, a person is encouraged to stay on their prescribed medication indefinitely, until they and their doctor agrees to discontinue the medication. Sometimes, if a manic or depressive episode was very frightening or associated with great risk to their health, finances, or family relationships, medication may be a helpful treatment option to continue.
Is there anything I can do to help my disorder?
Yes. First, learn all you can about your illness by reading books, going to lectures and talking to your doctor. Get support from others who also have the illness. Mental Health America is a good place to look for a support group in your area. In these groups, you can hear how others face the challenges of life and manage their mood and treatment medications.
Many people prefer to get help in an online community. My Support Forums is an online support group community that was established in 2001 and is completely free to use. It is overseen by a group of caring volunteers from around the world.
For helpful hints for managing your illness, see coping with bipolar disorder.
Learn more: Living with Bipolar Disorder
How can lifestyle affect bipolar disorder?
Lack of a consistent routine and disrupted sleep can trigger a mood episode. Choosing work and leisure activities that allow proper sleep and rest is vital to healthy emotional functioning. Families can support good mental hygiene by going to bed and getting up at the same time each day.
It is important to keep stress in one’s life to a minimum, as stress or stressors can trigger a manic or depressive episode. Being aware of stressors and working to minimize or avoid them in life can be helpful to maintaining a balance while keeping new episodes of manic or depressive behavior at bay.
Should I lose hope now that I’ve been diagnosed with bipolar?
No, bipolar disorder is readily treated with modern medications and psychotherapy. Medications prescribed today for this condition have far fewer side effects than medications from 50 years ago. Most people tolerate them well. Psychotherapy can help with reducing stress, learning coping strategies to avoid future episodes, and keep a more balanced, stress-free life.
