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Behavioral Health Care
Are You Experiencing Sudden Shifts in Mood, Behavior or Energy?
They may be the signs of bipolar disorder or manic-depression
Bipolar disorder or manic-depression is a serious illness that can cause sudden and severe shifts in a person’s energy, mood, behavior and ability to function day to day. Quite different from the usual “ups and downs” most people experience, these changes can result in deteriorating performance in work or school, fragmented relationships, or even suicide.
Warning signs of a “high” phase include:
- Increased energy, restlessness, poor sleep
- Euphoric mood, extravagant thoughts, poor judgment
- Poor concentration, racing or disconnected thoughts
- Spending sprees
- Increased sexual urges
- Irritability, or aggressive or intrusive behavior
- Denial of any inappropriate or unusual speech or behavior
Warning signs of a “low” phase include:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, helpless, guilty, or worthless
- Losing interest or pleasure in activities formerly enjoyable, including sex
- Decreased energy, feeling "slowed down"
- Difficulty with concentration, memory or decision-making
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Appetite disturbances
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
- Persistent physical symptoms that aren’t responsive to standard treatments, for example, headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain
Bipolar illness may sometimes be missed as a condition needing treatment. That’s why it’s important to get help at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network if you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms. Although bipolar illness is a long-term disorder that has no cure, proper treatment can keep the illness under control and minimize the recurrence of symptoms. Find out how we can help move your life forward by clicking on our services below.
For more information or to schedule an appointment,
call 610-402-CARE.
This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
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