Bipolar Disorder Research Paper

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Bipolar disorder, previously referred to as manic-depressive illness, is a lifelong mental disorder that involves changes in mood and episodes of depression that occur in cycles. According to Neel Burton on Psychology Today, the first descriptions of bipolar disorder were given in 1854 by Jules Baillarger and Jean-Pierre Falret. The illness worsens as the episodes become more frequent with the passing of time and, if not treated regularly, may result in death. The symptoms of bipolar disorder develop and progress from adolescence to adulthood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 2.6% of U.S. adults suffer from bipolar disorder. At its peak, any of these types of bipolar disorder can cause suicidal thoughts and hallucinations. …show more content…
The symptoms may be so undefined, one may not even recognize them as indicators of Cyclothymia. Due to its less severe effects, it often goes undiagnosed or ignored altogether. One may experience periods of distress without severe depression or hypomanic episodes without reaching a manic state.
According to Bipolar Disorders, Rapid- Cycling Bipolar Disorder involves experiencing four or more extreme mood episodes within a one-year period. The symptoms of Rapid Cycling occurs at different rates and varies in patterns. This type of bipolar disorder is most commonly found in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder at an early age. There are many ways to treat Bipolar disorder, including mood stabilizers and antipsychotics. Although there are various treatments currently in use, such as valproate and carbamazepine, and therapies, such as electroconvulsive therapy, for bipolar disorder, the most commonly used is lithium. Lithium has many side effects but has proven to be one of the most effective medications. However, there are some forms of bipolar disorder that cannot be treated with lithium and even manage to worsen

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