Young & Bipolar
YOUNG & BIPOLAR
Bipolar = episodes of extraordinary energy and racing grandiose thoughts alternating with periods of deep, perplexing depression (manic depressive)
Manic state:
– great energy
– unrealistic “highs”
– go without sleep for days
– rapid speech, flipping topics
– intensely focus on activities or projects to the detriment of everything else
– marked increase in sexual interests- risky sex, masturbating
– alcohol & drug abuse
– reckless driving
– normal inhibitions gone
– flying thoughts but they do not make sense
Depressed State:
– deep paralyzing depression
MOOD SWINGS ARE:
– extreme
– extensive
– potentially self-destructive
CAUSE
– not known
– imbalance in brain chemistry
– serotonin
– norepinephrine
– strong evidence of genetic predisposition
80% of Bipolar adults have suicidal ideation
40% of Bipolar adolescents attempt suicide
15% do eventually commit suicide
25% of suicides victims have Bipolar
Bipolar can exist with other mental diseases complicating treatment
Bipolar is a serious mental disease that can be lethal
TREATMENT
– medications – lithium
– anticonvulsants
– long term
– prognosis for Bipolar is optimistic with proper and consistent treatment
Workshops
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Contact
2720 Rath Street, Putnam, Ontario
NOL 2BO
Phone: (519) 485-4678
Fax: (519) 485-0281
Email:
info@rickharper.ca
Archive
Parents' Comments
“Our psychiatrist recommended Rick to help us sort out behaviour management issues for our autistic son. He was an invaluable help.”
(C.C. – Sarnia)
