preview

Bipolar Disorder And Mental Health

Decent Essays

Bipolar Disorder is otherwise known as manic-depressive illness. It is a brain disorder that causes shifts in moods, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. (Cite) These changes in behavior are outside of the norm as most people have ups and downs throughout their daily routines. But those with Bipolar Disorder experience shifts in mood that can be damaging to relationships, as well as their overall school and work performances. (Cite) I chose this disorder as the topic for my paper because a few years back my mother was diagnosed with the disorder. I have always been curious whether or not I would end up like her, later on in life, with the same manic-depressive illness. And if I did end up with this disorder I wonder if I would pass it onto my children. According to the National Institute of Mental Health there are four individual types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar Disorder I, Bipolar Disorder II, Cyclothymic Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified . My mother has Rapid-Cycling Bipolar Disorder and she has been hospitalized quite a few times for psych evaluations. “Those who experience rapid cycling can go between depression and mania as often as a few times a week (some even cycle within the same day).” (An Introduction to Bipolar Disorder). Growing up with a mother who has this disorder and a stepfather with schizophrenia its very hard to think of good memories since there was always arguments and fighting. It 's a strange

Get Access