BIpolar

Hi, I am SuAnne, an undergraduate study student at Capitol College near Washington, DC.,where like anywhere else, teen health issues are a concern. One of my most recent concerns are BIpolar teens.

We all have our ups and downs, our "off" days and our "on" days, but if you're suffering from bipolar disorder, these peaks and valleys are more severe. Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) causes serious shifts in mood, energy, thinking, and behavior–from the highs of mania on one extreme, to the lows of depression on the other. More than just a fleeting good or bad mood, the cycles of bipolar disorder last for days, weeks, or months. And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they interfere with your ability to function.

The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t completely understood, but it often runs in families. The first manic or depressive episode of bipolar disorder usually occurs in the teenage years or early adulthood. The symptoms can be subtle and confusing, so many people with bipolar disorder are overlooked or misdiagnosed–resulting in unnecessary suffering. But with proper treatment and support, you can lead a rich and fulfilling life.

This is a concern because these people are dangerous to others. I have a BIpolar family member. It is hard for us to deal with her because one day, she like's you, and the next day she wants to kill you. I just stay away from her now, because it is serious. She does not want help, so she does her. She has medicine for it, but she refuses to take it on a daily basis like instructed by the doctor. I fear for my life when I am around her. I have to stay alert and aware because she may snap at any time, and you never know what she will do in that snap.