LOVE TO HATEBYWENA
The
confessions of people suffering from mental illness and their challanges in
life
1,145
Monday, January 2, 2012
Bipolar Disorder, or manic
depression, is a serious mental illness that causes swings in a person’s mood,
energy and ability to function. Approximately 5 million Americans are diagnosed
as having bipolar disorder. Some of the most famous celebrities in our society
have confessed to having bipolar disorder.
The symptoms of bipolar disorder are
more severe than the usual ups and downs that people experience. People with
bipolar disorder, have a basic overall feeling, or mood, which alternates
between episodes of mania and depression that can last from days to weeks to
months.
Some of the symptoms exhibited
during manic episodes are: an extremely elated, happy mood or an irritable,
angry mood; increased physical and mental activity and energy; racing thoughts;
increased talking, more rapid speech than normal; ambitious, often grandiose
plans ;risk taking; impulsive activity such as spending sprees, sexual
indiscretion, and alcohol abuse; decreased sleep without experiencing fatigue
Some of the symptoms exhibited
during depressive episodes are: loss of energy; prolonged sadness; decreased
activity and energy; restlessness and irritability; inability to concentrate or
make decisions; increased feelings of worry and anxiety; loss of interest
or participation in, and less enjoyment of activities normally enjoyed;
feelings of guilt and hopelessness; thoughts of suicide; change in appetite (
eating more or eating less); change in sleep habits (either sleeping more or
sleeping less)
Some famous people who have either
disclosed to having bipolar disorder or have displayed symptoms of bipolar
disorder but remain undiagnosed.
Actor Richard Dreyfuss.
Dreyfuss admits that he has a bipolar disorder; he publically acknowledged he
used to use cocaine to cope with his bipolar symptoms and went to rehab to
battle his cocaine addiction.
Britney Spears was hospitalized
for a mental illness it is not confirmed that she has bipolar disorder, but
many people believe her erratic behavior showed that she may have been
suffering from an undiagnosed dual diagnosis of bipolar disorder and a
substance abuse problem. Actor Mel Gibson also talked about his
battle with bipolar disorder. Heavy Metal singer Ozzy Osbourne was
diagnosed with bipolar disorder and has been treated for alcoholism and drug
abuse. Singer Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses has been diagnosed with
bipolar disorder. Actress Linda Hamilton, states that she has struggled
with bipolar disorder as a young adult and used drugs and alcohol to self
medicate her symptoms.
There so much stigma and shame
attached to mental illness that many people often do not want to disclose their
symptoms or diagnosis. But with proper treatment recovery from bipolar
disorder, like many mental illnesses is possible. The majority of people
with a mental disorder can often return to their normal way of life and
continue to prosper and live productive lives.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Bipolar
depression is a mood disorder caused by unusual mood swings. Someone who
experiences bipolar depression may experience periods of lows, and then swing
in the opposite direction and feel highs with feelings of happiness and energy.
Some people can have the swings in mood multiple times a day, whereas others
may only have them a few times per year. The symptoms include mood swings of
euphoric highs and lows. During the highs the person may show signs such as: a
high self esteem; being very optimistic; increased sex drive; not sleeping very
much .Also there are symptoms like being careless and not worrying about
actions or consequences; more physically active.
When
in having a depressive episode these symptoms may appear; being sad
all the time, or for extended periods; feelings of helplessness and
hopelessness; not being able to sleep/sleeping excessively; poor appetite
or overeating; thoughts of suicide
There
are different types of Bipolar disorder: Bipolar I: someone suffering from this
type of bipolar disorder has experienced at least one episode of mania in their
life. Bipolar II this is similar to bipolar 1, but the person will most likely
not have experienced a full manic episode during their high period which is
called hypomanic. Most people also have one or more depressive
moods. Between episodes they usually live normal lives. Cyclothymic This
is a type where people have multiple episodes, possibly per year, but do not go
into a full manic or depressive state. Even though they are having multiple
episodes, they are not as severe as other types.
Depending
on the symptoms you are suffering from there are different treatments that can
be used. The most common is the use of medication and therapy. If the symptoms
become extreme the person suffering may need to be hospitalized for a period of
time. Even though the person may not have symptoms all of the time they need to
continue to be treated. Bipolar disorder with depression is a serious illness
and if you or someone you know has signs, a psychiatrist should be consulted
immediately. If left untreated it could lead to serious problems for the
person, and to people around them.
Becoming
Bipolar is a myth. It may seem like you can, but the fact is that
you can not become a Bipolar. Those who favor the genetic theory say
that a person may carry the genes for Bipolar disorder all their life and
suddenly become Bipolar later in life and become Bipolar when they are
elderly. Bipolar Disorder may become full blown if the person has
been through a traumatic life event. They may have been had a
drastic change in their routine by: a move to a retirement
community. The stress may be make the latent symptoms to become
active so that it may seem that the person has become Bipolar. A
heart or stroke or brain disease can look like Bipolar even though the person
does not carry the genes.
Because
there are episodes with Bipolars it can appear at any time when the stress of
environmental changes is great enough. The person in reality has been Bipolar
for life, however, the obvious symptoms may be triggered by a life
even. The Bipolar genes have been there all along but were triggered by
the environment change and developed into a disorder.
Triggers
which show genetic causes are any sort of trauma; substance abuse; biological
illnesses; hormone changes and drastic changes in sleep habits can all be a
triggers. Some women find that during menopause they experience Bipolar
symptoms. Their hormonal balance is enough to trigger Bipolar symptoms. Trauma
such as the sickness or death of someone close to you; violent crime become;
traumatic enough to trigger Bipolar symptoms. Soldiers coming from
combat often become Bipolar after their traumatic experiences in
combat. Usually they are also suffering from post traumatic stress and
need special treatment. Reducing the post traumatic disorder can
also reduce the bipolar symptoms.
Lack
of sleep for a long period of time can be the biggest factor for making Bipolar
disorder worse. People with Bipolar disorder should never stay awake all night;
Midnight shifts at work should be avoided. Bipolars should establish
regular sleeping habits sleeping at regular times and waking up at the same
time. This alone is enough to counteract the Bipolar
symptoms. Changes in time zones can also trigger an episode for
Bipolars and should be avoided as much as possible.
Avoiding
triggers or lessening their severity makes it possible to thrive with Bipolar
Disorder in life.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Bipolar
I Disorder am a type of Affective Disorder which is a psychiatric illness of
mood disorder. The symptoms of Bipolar I Disorder am sometimes complex and
confusing and can be mistaken for other illnesses. The symptoms of Bipolar I
are changes in mood for a distinct period of time, feeling happy, optimistic,
euphoric, irritable Changes in thinking thoughts speeding through
one's brain, unrealistic self confidence, difficulty concentrating, grandiose
plans, delusions, hallucinations Changes in behavior increased
activity or socializing, immersion in plans or projects, talking very rapidly
and excessively, excessive spending, impaired judgment, impulsive sexual
involvement Changes in physical condition less need for sleep, increased
energy, fewer health complaints
Most
people with Bipolar I Disorder also experience depression including depressed
mood, loss of interest in activities, feelings of worthlessness and
hopelessness, lack of appetite, sleep difficulties, lack of energy and thoughts
of suicide.
If
you suspect, or if others around you have mentioned that your behavior has
changed or your actions are different, and you are concerned you need to see a
doctor to determine for diagnosis and treatment of mania or manic depression or
bipolar disorder.
A
diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder is when there are: one or more manic or mixed
episodes and not be due to a medical condition, medication, drugs of abuse or
alcohol abuse or treatment for depression. The majority of patients who
have a single episode of mania will have a recurrence. Mixed episodes are
more likely in younger patients and episodes occur more frequently with
age. Social and occupational outcomes of manic episodes can be serious;
violence, child abuse, excessive debt, job loss, divorce. Manic episodes
are more likely to receive more attention compared to Depressive episodes. The
suicide rate of bipolar patients is very high. Common coexisting
diagnoses include substance abuse, eating disorders, attention deficit,
hyperactivity and Bipolar Disorder. Rapid cycling pattern has a poor
prognosis.
Manic behavior generally begins with a sudden and pleasant switch of mood to one of wellbeing, with happiness and positive energy. With hypomania, a mild form of mania the individual is able to function quite well, and this mood may persist at this level for a long period of time without becoming more severe. In other cases it intensifies into true mania. This is the state I will discuss here.
Out
of control of emotions and behavior are prominent. Normally amiable people may
become increasingly angry, impulsive, emotional or irritable Persistent euphoria
that does not subside, but if their plans are interrupted their mood becomes
irritable or extremely angry. Some may become hostile. Paranoia can
occur and they can assault others verbally or physically. Very rapid speech,
incessant and usually in a loud voice. Answers to questions are at great length
and they continue talking when others try to speak. The speech may be
characterized by puns, or irrelevant quips. Offering money or
advice to strangers Unable to sleep or sit still often going for days
with 2 or3 hrs sleep and without feeling tired, losing normal
inhibitions and be sexually hyperactive or promiscuous. Due to
impaired judgment poor decision making. Overspending or quitting jobs.
With extreme mania some of the following may appear: thinking irrational.
Speech uncontrollable and incoherent. Out of touch with reality,
unable to tell real tell from not real, delusions, hallucinations and Catatonia
are possible.
Medication,
mood stabilizing, medications are the treatment for individuals diagnosed with
Bipolar Disorder. New medicines are coming to the forefront and are being
researched and used for patients with bipolar disorder.
Electroconvulsive
Therapy usually is only used for those as ill as to need protection from
hariming themselves.
Psychotherapy
alone is not affective for long-term treatment of bipolar
disorder. Psychotherapy has proven effective in helping Bipolars to
accept, understand and cope with the stresses of both the disorder and every
day life. Through psychotherapy individuals can learn to restore
self-esteem, adapt to new emotions and work out ways to prevent relapses.
Individuals
with severe mania may require hospitalization to prevent harm to themselves or
to others. Poor judgment can lead to personal danger. People with
severe mania have died as a result of physical exhaustion.
Recovery
from a Manic Episode takes medications regularly and as prescribed by your
doctor Get emotional support from a supportive person. Talk to
a therapist or counseling. Focus on living one day at a time, reduce
stress.
When
their behavior becomes outrageous and they have run up thousands of dollar in
debts and put the family on the verge of, or into bankruptcy, when they have
been involved with public brawls and the police, or when their sexual
indiscretions become too obvious to ignore, relationships are
strained.
The
anger displayed by the manic creates arguments and fights in the home.
The partner finds it nearly impossible to defend themselves against these
attacks. Relationships are poor, and even after the mania is gone, it is
difficult on with a relationship.
Mania is a disorder that one cannot
manage on his own. Professional mental health care from a psychiatrist is
necessary. If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of
mania get they need treatment as quickly as possible. All you can do is to
ensure they follow the long-term treatment program prescribed by a doctor.
When you’re dealing with the
symptoms of bipolar depression, it’s easy to feel like you’re consumed by the
condition or feeling lost to the world around you. For patients with bipolar
disorder, the depressive symptoms, also called bipolar depression, can be more
disabling than mania. A major depressive episode consists of many of the
symptoms some are: they occur nearly every day for at least two weeks.
Depressed mood most of the day; feeling sad or empty, crying. Loss
of interest or finding less pleasure in activities that used to be enjoyable.
Significant weight loss, when not dieting, weight gain; decrease or increase in
appetite. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much is prominent. Agitation can
be present or a slowing down of thoughts and physical movements; fatigue or
loss of energy. You may experience feelings of worthlessness or
inappropriate guilt. Often there is poor concentration or having difficulty
making decisions and thinking about death or suicide.
There are different types of
depression Major Depression Disorder; Unipolar depression; Bipolar depressive
disorder
Depression may be described as
feeling sad, unhappy, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way from time
to time but for short periods. Clinical depression is a mood disorder in which
feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration can interfere with everyday
life for weeks or longer.
The exact cause of depression is not
known. Many researchers believe it is caused by chemical changes in the brain.
It may be due to a problem with your genes, or triggered by certain stressful
events. Some types of depression run in families. But depression can also occur
if there is no family history of the illness. Anyone can develop depression.
Alcohol or drug abuse, certain medical conditions such as underactive thyroid,
cancer, or chronic pain can cause a person to become depressed. Certain
medications such as steroids; sleeping problems; stressful life can lead to
depression. The death or illness of someone close to you; divorce; childhood
abuse or neglect; job loss; Social isolation common in the elderly
Your doctor will ask questions about
your medical history and symptoms. Certain questions can help your doctor make
a diagnosis of depression and determine how severe it may be.
Medications that you take for
another health problem can cause or worsen depression. Tell your doctor about
all the medicines you take. Changing your dose or switching to an
alternative drug may prove helpful. Never stop taking your medications without
first talking to your doctor.
Therapy is counseling to talk about
your feelings and thoughts, and help you learn how to deal with them. Types of
therapy include: Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches you how to change
negative thoughts. How to become more aware of your symptoms and how
to spot things that makes your depression worse. You'll also problem-solving
skills. Psychotherapy can help you understand the issues that may be behind
your thoughts and feelings. A support group of people who are having problems
like yours can also help.
Electroconvulsive therapy is
an effective treatment for severe depression and it is generally safe, it may
improve mood in those with severe depression or suicidal thoughts who do not
get better with other treatments. It may also help treat depression in those
who have psychotic symptoms.
Often \to ease the stress of illness
by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems.
The prognosis for people with
major depression is good with antidepressants for a few weeks. But many people
need to take the medicine for months to fully feel better and prevent the
depression from returning. For people who have repeated episodes of depression,
quick and ongoing treatment may be needed to prevent more severe, long-term
depression. Sometimes people will need to stay on medications for long periods
of time. People who are depressed are more likely to use alcohol or illegal
substances. Complications of depression also include: increased risk of
physical health problems and suicide.
To defeat depression takes patience
and some time before the depression lifts. Having a good relationship with
you doctor can ease the symptoms.
Taking care of yourself physically;
getting exercise; eating a well balanced diet and proper sleep can all help you
deal with the depression. Continuing to take your medication all can lead to
relieving the most persistent depression.
Is
there a Connection between Bipolar Disorder and Creativity
People
with Bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania, an exceptionally elevated,
irritable, or energetic mood and depression. These episodes may be separate or
depressed and manic symptoms may occur at the same time. The frequency of
episodes varies. At least four depressive manic, hypomanic, or mixed episodes
within a year of a rapidly changing mood which is known as rapid cycling
bipolar disorder.
During
the early stages of a manic episode, people can be very happy, productive and
creative. They have less need for sleep and don’t feel tired. There is some
evidence that many well known creative people were bipolar.
Patients
say that they get to the point where they can’t function and sometimes need to
be hospitalized, especially if they don’t take their medication as prescribed.
In
a manic episode, the person can feel like making lots of plans because the
world seems full of opportunity. They may feel high, meet a lot of new friends,
spend all their money, and even feel invincible. Medication can appear dull the
creativity, and may be seen as a negative feeling at this point.
There
something about the manic or in between episodes of bipolar disorder that can
be leads to creative expression in some people.
Studies
in both medical and psychology have shown some evidence for a link, but
the focus is on well known figures or small groups of
patients.
It
is established that people with affective disorders tend to be represented in
the creative artist community especially those with bipolar disorder. Bipolar
disorder may carry certain rewards for creativity, especially in those who have
milder symptoms.
The
diagnosis of bipolar disorder has been linked to gifted talents of mood
disorders and it is likely that the condition has a genetic basis.
Individuals
with bipolar disorder often report that they are at their most creative and
productive when having a manic episode.
A
study attempted to link the relationship between Virginia Woolf’s creativity
and her mental illness, which was probably bipolar disorder 1941.
Is
there a connection with creativity and mood disorders?
Researchers
have proposed several reasons that could account for the link between mood
disorders and creativity.
They
believe that mania causes imaginative activity because the energy of manic
depression drives the victims to look for outlets which often become creative
expression. Also they have put forward the view that the continuous energy of
the hippomanic state leads to the phenomenal and original output.
Researchers
also point out that creativity and bipolar symptoms could be genetic. Studies
are constantly increasing to investigate this link.
Evidence
shows many creative people as having mood disorders. Some of the most famous
were: Abraham Lincoln who suffered from severe depression and suicidal
thoughts. Ernest Hemingway experienced depression before committing suicide.
Sylvia Plath had an enduring battle with depression. She also committed
suicide. Vincent Van Gogh was well known for his quick tempered character and
depression. He was hospitalized in an asylum before he committed suicide.
Ludwig Van Beethoven was recorded as being mentally ill with manic depression.
John Keats was grappled with depression and mental illness. Winston Churchill
was recorded as having manic depression and he was known for his speeches which
were inspirational during the war.
What causes the creative differences in bipolar people has
yet to be proven; however, evidence shows that there is a connection between
bipolar disorder and creativity it is shown throughout history.
Wednesday, December 28,
2011
Psychological
Disorders and Intervention and Treatment
Mental
illnesses are for most people embarrassing and shameful few people are likely
to tell friends and family they are seeing a psychiatrist or
psychologist. It is painful to dig into the soul and use therapy
like cognitive behavioral treatments to your life, even to relieve the
psychological disorder. Counseling for psychological disorders can be very
expensive and insurance providers do not always cover the cost. Seeing a
psychologist or psychiatrist is invaluable to your whole self not just your
mind and emotions, or the psychological disorder. Physical health is connected
to your mind and overall health, caring for your inner self can boost other
parts.
Like
a physical disease, diabetes and cancer, a psychological disorder can strike
anyone at any time in their life, no matter of how wealthy, happy, or stable
they are.
Some
of the psychological disorders that are the most common are: depression, major
depression, dysthymic disorder, adjustment disorder with depression and bipolar
depression.
Anxiety
Disorders: panic disorder, post traumatic stress, social anxiety, agoraphobia,
obsessive compulsive disorder and certain phobias.
Schizophrenia:
is a chronic, severe, and disabling mental disorder.
Childhood
Disorders: behavioral control problems, including ADHD, conduct disturbance,
and oppositional behavior. Separation anxiety, a common problem in young
children
Impulse
Control Disorders: psychological problems involving loss of control are
described in this section. Anger control problems are usually diagnosed as
intermittent explosive disorder, domestic violence problems. pathological
gambling and kleptomania.
Personality
Disorders: general characteristics of all personality disorders, obsessive
compulsive, narcissistic and borderline personality disorders.
Adjustment
Disorders: The general characteristics of adjustment disorders, life stressors
that lead to adjustment problems, such as marital conflict and job stress.
Family
Problems: family conflicts often occur because one or more family members have
a psychological. Family conflicts also arise because of communication problems,
parenting issues, school problems and sibling conflicts.
Psychological
disorders, also called mental disorders, are persistent behavior patterns that
can seriously affect your day-to-day function and life.
The
treatment of psychological disorders is firstly recognizing that a problem
exists. Regular medical care can be helpful because it allows a
health care professional to provide early screening tests. Regular medical care
also provides an opportunity for your health care professional to promptly
evaluate symptoms and the risks for developing psychological disorders.
Frequently
treatment includes psychotherapy to work on behaviors, skill development, and
thought process.
Common
treatments of psychological disorders start with medication to relive the
disorder and help with the therapy. These may be: Antianxiety medications,
Antidepressant medications to improve moods, Antipsychotic medications to treat
disordered thought patterns and altered perceptions.
The
psychological approaches may include: Cognitive behavioral therapy to work on
thought patterns and behavior, Family therapy to help develop support and
understanding, Group therapy, Hospitalization for coexisting medical problems,
serious complications, severe disorders, or substance abuse and Individual
therapy, Moodstabilizing medications are used if needed. Psychodynamic therapy
works on discovering and understanding past issues and their relationship to
current thoughts and behaviors and Support groups.
Psychological methods of
treatment can often find underlying issues that can occur with dual diagnosis
and often can provide insight to behavior problems which can mask a more
serious disorder. The muse of psycho logic treatments can aid recovery more
easily and in a shorter time period
Many
people experience stigma for many reasons. Discrimination is found
in many different prejudices, like sexual orientation, gender, culture or
physical disability. Discrimination can lead to mental problems or substance
abuse problems. And people who already discriminated for any reason may be even
less able to find help for these problems or less able to find services that
they need.
Research shows that over half of people living with mental
disorders say that they were embarrassed about their mental health problems,
and over half felt like they had experienced discrimination.
Just
under half of the people thought that a mental disorder was just an excuse for
poor behavior. Only about one in three people would continue to be
friends with someone with an alcohol use problem. Only about one in
four would continue to be friends with someone with a drug use problem
What can we do about
it? Discrimination of mental health and substance use is a human
rights problem. Human rights are rights that all people should have. The
respect and dignity is a freedom that should not be taken away by other
people’s ideas or by myths. It is a basic human right for all people with
mental health and substance use problems. Everyone has the right to live
without discrimination of any kind.
Health
and well-being are things like human rights and access to opportunities.
Discrimination denies human rights, and creates unequal
access. Human rights and helping everyone to take part in our society, we are
also fighting the discrimination and improving people’s wellbeing.
Focus
on the differences in people poverty, the need for affordable housing; more
education opportunities and the opportunity for meaningful work are social
factors that can affect well-being. These factors may be an outcome of mental
health and a cause of mental health issues. Inequalities tackled among the
members of a community are helpful for the individuals and society. The systems
that create differences by encouraging our governments have to have positive
laws. Supporting people in our communities who are working to reduce
differences is paramount to resolve mental health discrimination.
Everyone
has the right to work. Work gives us purpose and meaning. Also the income, with
other social factors, for example, if we have a high income, we can afford
better housing and have right to more services. People are entitled
to have access to training, education or other work programs. Direct
personal contact and interacting with people with mental health or substance
use problems is one of the best ways to improve public attitudes. Experiences
can counteract the major myths. Education can help people to understand the
problems the mentally ill face.
Mental
illness and substance use problems are shared by humanity the fear, prejudice
and discrimination are less when we talk about mental health problems as
unfortunate biological problems and fateful circumstances which a person has no
control of.
Help
people be heard: We need to encourage anti-stigma programs and research. Supporting
people and connecting them with others who share the same problems. When people
relate to each other’s difficulties and want to see a change, to share their
stories they can protest the injustice.
Media
like TV, movies, newspapers, influence how we see others. The media
should show people for who they really are capable and productive members of
society. The voice of people with mental illnesses and substance use
problems with backup of the media can be powerful. The
discrimination against a group of people is a vital issue that needs to be
addressed by all.
Tuesday, December 27,
2011
People
with bipolar disorder have to deal with many signs and symptoms, including
bipolar mania symptoms and hypomania episodes. These can be mixed with severe
depressive episodes, occurring separately or simultaneously with manic
episodes. Many bipolar patients can often coexist with bipolar disorder and all
of the mania symptoms. Understanding the manic behaviors associated with
hypomania and severe mania can help you learn to watch out for any early
warning signs and signals that present themselves to you.
No
matter if you have bipolar I disorder or bipolar II disorder, You must
understand the mania symptoms and manic episodes. With bipolar I disorder,
full-blown media episodes do occur in while only hypomanic episodes occur in patients
with bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I disorder is generally much worse than any
of the other types of bipolar that can have psychotic symptoms, severe
depression episodes and full-blown mania, varying from different causes and
triggers in everyday life, including lack of sleep and too much daily stress..
Euphoric
feelings and extremely high optimism are very common in mania and hypomania.
Many hypomanic states often start out quite productive in the beginning because
of the high amount of energy you may be experiencing. Your creativity may start
while you feel inspired . Sooner or later, things end up getting out of control
and warning signs and symptoms of severe depression episodes are usually just
waiting. Having melancholic lows and extreme highs are part of hypomania and
manic episodes. So you may ask the question what is the difference between
normal feelings of happiness and manic episodes Mania in the end will always
end with a pile of debt, emotional or physical pain, the loss of a job or friendship,
the loss of a close relationship and extreme humiliation to the bipolar
patient.
Sometimes
mania will bring extreme anger and aggression, leading to violence and morbid
thoughts. You can easily become demanding and very impatient. Being
argumentative and saying sarcastic remarks are very common in patients with
full-blown mania. You may even be arrested and sent to jail for fighting or you
may explode with your friends and family for the littlest thing. This can cause
extreme mood swings and racing thoughts in the person, leading to extreme
violence as part of the manic behaviors in each bipolar patient.
It
will seem that you have the ability to do any and everything during
the state of hypomania or mania. You will feel like you have an exuberant answers
for everyday life. You will find yourself highly sociable and friendly during
different phases of manic episode, leaving people attracted to
you. Many individuals with an inflated self-esteem come up with the
grandiose idea that God has chosen them as their special person for a special
mission in life.
You
have the ability to go for many days in a row with only 2 to 4 hours of sleep
each night that, is very common during phases of hypomania. During mania, a
patient with bipolar disorder symptoms may stay awake for three or four days at
the time. You may work for 16 or 18 hours at a time, even without stopping for
food. Period of insomnia are also common and related to the decreased need for
sleep during manic episodes
The
ability to concentrate on one task at a time becomes very difficult and almost
impossible during phases of manic or hypomanic episodes. You may have trouble
sitting still for longer than 10 minutes at a time, always having to constantly
move in having an increased level of energy.
When
you’re hypomanic or manic, you will have thoughts literally bombard your brain
one after another, without any possible time to think about each in between.
You may feel as though your brain is spinning and that you have no ability to
stop it or control your thoughts. This may cause you to talk excessively and
not have the ability to actually listen to what someone else is saying. It’s
like your brain is constantly running only waiting for the other person to
close their mouth.. Others can usually not even get a word in, which will
become very frustrating for them.
Many
times bipolar patients when trying to manage episodes of mania or are hypomania
will engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding on the highway, engaging in
risky sexual behaviors, go on spending sprees or saying something to your
friends or family members you would normally not do. And impulsiveness also
leads to making irrational decisions that are uncontrollable for the bipolar
patient. You may without any thought, tell your boss off without thinking
about the consequences or make a lifestyle decision that affects everyone
around.
It
is very common for bipolar I patients that have psychotic symptoms or
manic symptoms to engage in substance abuse. Drinking too much alcohol is
one of the common symptoms of bipolar patients during severe depressive
episodes and manic episodes. This is a warning sign that there is a problem
requiring treatment from a psychiatrist. Alcohol abuse is a leading factor in
many mood disorders and mental illnesses. Cocaine is also frequently used by
bipolar patients.
In
adults, bipolar disorder and rage can manifest with seemingly unprovoked
occasions of aggressiveness and impulsivity - vocal and/or physical.
Throwing objects against walls or at other people or breaking furniture.
Throwing objects against walls or at other people or breaking furniture.
One
of the worst feelings is the feeling of shame that many bipolar sufferers feel
after being on the offensive end one of these fits of anger. If you suspect
that you or someone close to you may have bipolar disorder; The
first step is to make an appointment with a psychiatrist. A regular doctor or
psychologist are not trained like a psychiatrist to recognize the symptoms of
bipolar disorder
It
is important the people suffering from bipolar disorder get diagnosed early,
get treatment, learn to recognize the beginning of anger attacks and learn to
deal with them and to help prevent further bipolar rage episodes.
Many
bipolar disorder people, if diagnosed correctly and given the proper
psychiatric treatment can learn self-control, learn how to cope and live an
almost normal life.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Mental illnesses are medical
conditions that disrupt a person's thinking, feeling ability to relate to
others and daily functioning. Mental illnesses are medical conditions, like
diabetes that often result in a diminished capacity for coping with the
ordinary stresses of daily life.
Mental illnesses are serious medical
illnesses. They cannot be overcome with will power and are not related to a
person's intelligence or character.
Serious mental illnesses
include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive
disorder, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and borderline
personality disorder. Mental illnesses are serious medical illnesses. They
cannot be overcome with will power and are not related to a person's
intelligence or character Mental illnesses can affect persons
of any age, race, religion, or income. Mental illnesses are not the result of
personal weakness, lack of character or poor upbringing.. Mental illnesses are
treatable. Recovery from a mental illness is possible. Most people diagnosed
with a serious mental illness can experience relief from their symptoms by
participating in a treatment plan. Medication treatment and psychosocial
treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal all help with the
recovery process.
Studies show that
approximately 5 million Americans experience a mental health disorder in a
given year
About 10 percent of children and
adolescents in the United States suffer from serious emotional and mental
disorders that cause impairment in their day-to-day lives at home, in school
and with peers. Researchers have evidence that four of the 10 leading causes of
disability in the US are mental disorders. Mental illnesses usually
occur in individuals in often during adolescence and young adulthood. All ages
are susceptible, but the young and the old are the ones that are usually
affected the most.
Without treatment the mental illness
can lead to unnecessary disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness,
inappropriate incarceration, suicide and wasted lives.
The treatments for serious mental
illnesses today are highly effective with a reduction of symptoms and have
improved their quality of life with a combination of medication and
psychosocial treatments. With appropriate medication most people who live with
serious mental illnesses can significantly reduce the impact of their illness
and find a satisfying independence. A key concept is to develop expertise in
developing strategies to manage the illness process. Early identification and
treatment is important. Access to the treatment and recovery supports recovery
is quicker and the course of illness is minimized. There can be life after a
diagnosis of a mental illness with the proper treatment those affected can live
an independent and rewarding life.
Thursday, December 22,
2011
Many
bipolar people have a dual diagnosis. This means that they have
either another mental illness or substance abuse problem in addition to the
bipolar disorder. According to studies done 57 to 60 percent of people with
bipolar disorder do have a substance abuse problem. Many have
secondary problem caused by their bipolar disorder or by other
factors. Treating dual diagnosis is more complicated than treating
either of the disorders alone. Certain medications commonly used to
treat one condition may cause adverse affects in persons who also have the
other condition or dual diagnosis and can interact in a negative way with meds
prescribed for that other condition. Sometimes you will need to try
a few different drug combinations to find the most effective therapy for you.
Dual diagnosis programs are used for people who have a mental disorder and an
addiction. This approach helps people recover with both mental
health and f\treats the substance abuse at the same time and in one place.
The
most common dual diagnosis among bipolar patients are panic and anxiety
disorders, obsessive /compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and
impulse-control disorders such as kleptomania and compulsive shopping. One of
the most consistent thing about bipolar disorder is that is
inconsistent. It may look like other things/ the anxiety may be
agitation from bipolar disorder if it is a mood stabilizer will show a
reduction in the anxiety. OCD may be possessiveness which can appear
with agitated mania. Treatment of the mania reduces the
OCD. True OCD is a fear of something that something bad will happen
if they do not perform certain rituals like checking a lock on a door 5 times.
Many
bipolar people have a substance abuse problem or a higher chance of developing a
problem with substance abuse. Drug and alcohol experts believe that
the bipolar symptoms caused the tendency to self medicate for the bipolar
symptoms. It is common for bipolar people to use alcohol and
drugs. The treatment is the same rehab to get rid of the addiction
issues when they are having bipolar symptoms the have an addict mentality and
rehab will help them deal with it.
Thursday, December 15,
2011
Stress
or mood swings can strike anyone from time to time upsetting their mental
balance. Too much stress, anxiety, depression, or worry can become and affects
mind and emotions so that they can be overwhelming. When moods and emotions get
too unbalanced; when they begin to interfere with your career or personal
relationshiiwit’s time to make a change. No matter how stressful your job,
close relationships, or current life situation; you can learn to control your
emotions and bring your life back into balance.
Do
you ever feel or wish you had more control over your mental and emotional
state? We all feel emotionally off-balance to be pummeled by stress and anxiety
or by depression.
It
may seem like a never-ending battle, but you can relieve the emotional turmoil.
You can bring your life into balance by learning more about your emotions, how
to recognize them, and what you can do to manage them.
Achieving
emotional balance takes practice and patience, but feeling the benefits happens
quickly. Our brains have the ability to change and evolve. No matter how long
you have felt out of control of your emotions, no matter how long you have felt
overwhelmed; you can take steps to getting off the emotional rollercoaster.
Some
people know when they have an emotional problem, while others only suspect that
something in their lives is not working as it should. Think about the following
common symptoms. Do you feel overwhelmed by responsibilities and stressed out
much of the time? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationships? Do you have
a hard time connecting with others? Do you fight chronic depression,
anxiety, worry, or negativity? Are you having trouble getting ahead in your
career, despite your job talents? Have you received complaints about the way
you interact with customers or co-workers? Do your people in your life complain
about your mood swings, temper, irrational fears, or your emotional distance?
Do you find yourself getting annoyed or upset at little things? Do
you have a hard time bouncing back from problems? Do you often say or do
things, only to regret it later? Do you struggle with a negative cycle,
repeating the same mistakes over and over again?
Changing
mental and emotional habits takes more than just intellectual understanding; it
takes a process that engages you physically and emotionally as well as
intellectually.
To
repair your nervous system's ability to remain in balance so that you can
experience being both calm and focused throughout the day; you need to practice
regularly, and can actually change your brain in ways that will make you feel
more confident, resilient, and in control. The more you practice, the better
you will get at managing your emotions and facing life’s challenges. In order
to gain the abilities needed to overcome challenges, experience greater
emotional health, build emotional intelligence, and bring your life into
balance. Stress relief and emotional awareness to be emotionally healthy.
The
goal is how to regulate stress, then to learn how to recognize, monitor, and
deal with your emotions. The strategy is to engage your senses in ways to
having lasting change. If you want
something to change for the better in your life; the more you want the change,
the better your chance of getting what you want. Your brain is
continually evolving and may continue to change for the better for years to
come. Learning the reasons for your emotional turmoil takes months or even
years in order to control and understand why you are feeling the
emotions. Reducing stress can dramatically change your life and
become a different person. Gaining the emotional balance in your
life comes from constant monitoring and controlling the outcome of the drastic
actions and feelings. Building from the knowledge takes honesty and work but
you can achieve a balance in your life.
Wednesday, December 7,
2011
M
How
Common Are Psychotic Disorders?
About
1% of the population of the world suffers from psychotic disorders. These
disorders most often first appear when a person is in the late teens 20s or
30s. Men and women are affected equally.
Doctors
perform a complete medical history and physical exam to find out the cause of
the symptoms. There are no laboratory tests to diagnose psychotic disorders
except those that are associated with a physical illness; the doctor may use
diverse tests, such as blood work and X-rays, to rule out a physical illness as
the cause of the symptoms.
If
there is no physical reason for the symptoms, a psychiatrist or psychologist,
who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses must be
consulted. Psychiatrists interview a person to evaluate a person for a
psychotic disorder.
Most
psychotic disorders are treated with a combination of medications and
psychotherapy. The main medications used to treat psychotic disorders are
called antipsychotics. These medicines are not a cure for the illnesses, but
are very effective in managing the most disturbing symptoms of psychotic
disorders, such as delusions, hallucinations and thinking problems.
Antipsychotics include older medications such as Haldol, Thorazine, and
Mellaril and newer medications (often called atypicals) such as; Zyprex,
Risperdal, Seroquel, Clozaril, Abilify, and Geodon. The newer medications
--sometimes referred to as atypical antipsychotics these are the drug of
choice because they have fewer side effects.
Various
types of psychotherapy, including individual, group and family therapy, may be
used to help assist the person. Most patients with psychotic disorders are
treated as outpatients. Severe symptoms, those in danger of hurting
themselves or others, or those unable to care for themselves because of their
illness may require hospitalization to stabilize their condition.
Each
person being treated for a psychotic disorder responds to medications and
therapy differently. Some show improvement quickly. For others, it may take
weeks or months to become stabilized and for the symptom to be relieved.
Some
people may need to continue treatment for an extended period of time, and those
who have suffered several severe episodes, may need to take medication
indefinitely. In these cases, the medication usually is given in as low a dose
as possible to control side effects.
The
prognosis varies depending on the type of psychotic disorder and the
individual. These disorders are treatable and most people have a good recovery
with treatment and follow-up treatment. Some people need medication for life in
order to control the psychotic symptoms depending on the disorder.
There
is no known way to prevent psychotic disorders, but the symptoms can be
prevented with early detection and treatment. Seeking help as soon as symptoms
appear can help decrease the disruption to the person's life, family and
friendships. Avoiding drugs and alcohol can prevent psychotic disorders caused
by these substances
Monday, December 5, 2011
Why
are so many severely mentally still homeless. Community mental health centers
are inadequate, underfunded, and are often the victims budget-cutting.
Mentally
ill homeless people have special problems for health care workers. They
may not be as cooperative and motivated; because of their limited or
nonexistence of resources, they may have difficulty getting transportation to treatment
centers; they frequently forget to show up for appointments or take
medications. Among people with severe mental disorders, those at greatest
risk of homelessness are both the most severely ill and the most difficult to
help. Many of the homeless mentally ill lack the insight, and do not realize
they are sick and they are in need of regular treatment. Others have given up,
believing that the system cannot or will not help them.
Most
homeless people when asked what their greatest needs were, they listed
affordable housing, safety, education, transportation, medical and dental
treatment, and job placement. Mental health and substance abuse services were
regarded as unimportant.
Solving
the problem of the mentally ill homeless cannot be done without resolving the
problem of homelessness totally. State institutions for the mentally ill are no
longer available by law to help them. The mass closure of state
hospitals has caused more homelessness. Food and shelter the basic needs of
life versus mental health needs, the homeless and those trying to care for them
choose the basic needs.
Many
cities in taking action against homeless crisis have criminalized homelessness,
which shifts the problem to the over-filled jails. Religious institutions
provide shelter and food, and basic needs without addressing the reason why the
person is homeless.
A
national effort is needed to eliminate homelessness; the problem is getting
worse, particularly in these economic times. The mentally ill homeless have no
place to go, no way to provide for themselves and have little hope in the
present situation.
Not
all people who are unemployed are looking for jobs and some homeless people,
who do not want to work, think that getting money without working is the best
way of living makes up only about 25% of homeless people 50% to 60% has a job;
approximately 50% get some money which, is not enough for even basic
needs.
Alcoholism
is also a major cause of homelessness; 50% of all homeless is an adult who has
a drug or alcohol problem, but it is not the only cause of homelessness. Also
alcoholism contributes to unemployment. This means that, regardless
of sex, to get a job is more difficult for alcoholic homeless people than
nonalcoholic homeless people.
About 1/3 of the single adult
homeless population suffers from some kind of severe and persistent mental
illness. At least a half of mentally ill homeless people are dually diagnosed
with an alcohol or drug problem. According to studies done only 5-7% of
homeless persons with mental illness need to be institutionalized, so mental
illness is not the major cause of homelessness.
The causes of homelessness is for
compound reasons because most of homeless people get some money whether they
are employed or not, and some people are not willing to work because of the
government assistance payment. In terms of alcoholism and drug abuse, only
those who are addicted have a high risk of becoming homeless. Only 5% to 7% of
homeless people with mental illness need to be institutionalized. It can be
said that homeless people escape from working.
There
is no single reason for homelessness, but the severely
mentally ill are unprotected by the agencies that put a large majority of the
in the situation. With regular treatment this can be avoided and the mentally
ill need not suffer on the streets or in shelters. Without adequate
housing and only short term hospitalization the mentally ill will continue to
make up a large part of the homeless population. The transition from
hospital care to clinics and available treatment needs to be addressed to give
the severely mentally ill a chance at life free from symptoms. These
people deserve a life that is rewarding and gratifying when given the chance to
be stabilized on medications the country would see fewer homeless mentally ill.
Why
are so many severely mentally still homeless. Community mental health centers
are inadequate, underfunded, and are often the victims budget-cutting.
Mentally
ill homeless people have special problems for health care workers. They
may not be as cooperative and motivated; because of their limited or
nonexistence of resources, they may have difficulty getting transportation to
treatment centers; they frequently forget to show up for appointments or take
medications. Among people with severe mental disorders, those at greatest
risk of homelessness are both the most severely ill and the most difficult to
help. Many of the homeless mentally ill lack the insight, and do not realize
they are sick and they are in need of regular treatment. Others have given up,
believing that the system cannot or will not help them.
Most
homeless people when asked what their greatest needs were, they listed
affordable housing, safety, education, transportation, medical and dental
treatment, and job placement. Mental health and substance abuse services were
regarded as unimportant.
Solving
the problem of the mentally ill homeless cannot be done without resolving the
problem of homelessness totally. State institutions for the mentally ill are no
longer available by law to help them. The mass closure of state
hospitals has caused more homelessness. Food and shelter the basic needs of
life versus mental health needs, the homeless and those trying to care for them
choose the basic needs.
Many
cities in taking action against homeless crisis have criminalized homelessness,
which shifts the problem to the over-filled jails. Religious institutions
provide shelter and food, and basic needs without addressing the reason why the
person is homeless.
A
national effort is needed to eliminate homelessness; the problem is get ting
worse, particularly in these economic times. The mentally ill homeless have no
place to go, no way to provide for themselves and have little hope in the
present situation.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
The
number of homeless people shifted to the streets and woods in our towns and
cities is one of the most disgraceful, horrors of America.
An
estimated 750,000 people who are homeless, almost 50% of them have a serious
mental illness. These unfortunate mentally ill people go untreated, and unable
to work, living on the streets making a meager dollar panhandling, collecting
cans and eating out of garbage cans.
The
number of homeless Americans, since homelessness is often a transient state and
some are in shelters. An estimation from studies show approximately
3 million people, some of them children, are likely to
experience homelessness in a year; approximately 1% of American
citizens experiencing homelessness each year.
Homeless
people suffer from high rates of mental health problems made worse by living on
the streets and in shelters.
A
great number of homeless persons suffer from mental disorders; which include
Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Schizophrenia.
Schizoaffective disorders and severe personality disorders are other illnesses
that can be included. There are more people with untreated severe psychiatric
illnesses living on America’s streets than are receiving care in hospitals.
Substance abuse is also prevalent among the homeless populations.
Deinstitulization
from mental institutions to outpatient care failed; the transition of the
mentally ill to outpatient care never materialized in the 1960′s and 1970′s the
desire to deinstitutionalize many of those being held in state and other mental
institutions began. The plan was to create community health centers where the
mentally ill could receive outpatient treatment, along with residential
facilities for those unable to make it on their own.
Boarding
homes filled with discharged psychiatric patients from the nearby hospitals,
the intended policy of deinstitutionalization exchanged one institute for
another. Single-room occupancy hotels and other low cost housing were
declining in urban areas as redevelopment came into being.
By
the 1980s the consequences of deinstitutionalization were becoming obvious.
More and more severely ill people were living on the streets and in public
shelters.
Living
on the streets and in shelters is can be a trigger for a mental illness. The
heart of the plight of the mentally ill homeless are those whose mental state
makes them unable to hold jobs; and for the ones that the residential
facilities and community health centers has been unsuccessful for.
Without
an a national effort to eliminate homelessness, the problem will only get
worse, particularly in these economic times. The helpless and hopeless
mentally ill homeless have no place to go, no way to provide for themselves and
have little hope in the present situation.
Wednesday, November 30,
2011
Many Hispanics depend on their family, the Hispanic community, and their churches for help with health crises. Hispanics with mental illness often go without professional mental health treatment Because of cultural differences.
Studies have shown that older Hispanic adults and youth are vulnerable to mental disorders due to the stress of immigration and learning to live in a culturally different environment. Many older Hispanic Americans find it difficult to adjust to the new society. Their traditional values and beliefs are at odds with the new culture, have to cross the language barriers and depend on family for care.
Younger Hispanics also have been found to be at risk for higher levels of emotional distress because of the pressures to rapidly adapt to the new culture as well as inequality, poverty, and discrimination.
The have trouble relating to their new mor3e3s of society yet aqdhe3re to the traditional values held by their parents.
Lack of access to mental health services is serious problem in the Hispanic community. Hispanic Americans use mental-health services far less than other ethnic and racial groups. They are also uninsured in America limiting access to care. The lack of interpreters and bilingual health care providers can interfere with appropriate evaluation, treatment, and emergency response.
Some Hispanics have different attitudes about seeking mental health services, and may feel highly stigmatized for asking for help. Affected individuals may not recognize their symptoms as those that require the attention of mental health specialists.
Mental health services need to be
receptive to the cultural needs of Hispanics; and also bridge the language
barriers. With proper care and treatment most mental illneswses can be
controlled.
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