Bipolar Disorder (manic depression)

People with manic depression or bipolar affective disorder have periods of depression and periods of feeling unusually "high" or elated. About 1% of the population is affected. The "highs" can get out of hand, and the manic person may behave in a reckless manner, sometimes to the point of financial ruin or getting in trouble with the law.

• It tends to run in families. Drug abuse and stressful or traumatic events may contribute to or trigger episodes.
• Symptoms of mania include:
• Feelings of euphoria, extreme optimism, exaggerated self-esteem
• Rapid speech, racing thoughts
• Decreased need for sleep
• Extreme irritability
• Impulsive and potentially reckless behaviour
• Treatment includes medication and therapy.

Excerpts from CMHA National web site – Bipolar Disorder