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Bipolar Disorder

Social Security Attorneys Virginia

While everyone experiences mood swings, those who suffer from bipolar disorder experience intense, extreme mood volatility that swings from manic highs to manic depressive states. Both the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance and the National Institute of Mental Health estimate that 5.7 million adult Americans suffer from this manic-depressive disorder, which crosses all boundaries of race, age, social classes, or ethnic groups.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

  • Bipolar I: Those who have had a minimum of 1 manic episode. Other episodes of depression may have also occurred.
  • Bipolar II: Those who have had a minimum of 1 episode of depression and a less severe, shorter period of manic episode(s) (hypomanic). The depressive generally states last longer in this form of bipolar disorder.
  • Cyclothymia: Mild, less severe mood swings.
  • Rapid Cycling: When mood swings occur at least 4 times a year.
  • Mixed State: When a person experiences depression and mania symptoms simultaneously.

Symptoms

A person suffering from bipolar disorder will alternate between extreme highs and lows which may last for days, weeks or months. Examples of manic behavior include:

  • Euphoria
  • Rapid speech and thoughts
  • Anxiety
  • Drug use/abuse
  • Overconfidence and self-esteem
  • Aggressiveness
  • Dangerous behavior
  • Lack of concentration
  • Extravagant spending
  • Increased sexual drive
  • Insomnia
  • Hallucinations or delusions

Examples of depressive behavior include:

  • Suicide thoughts or attempts
  • Lethargy or fatigue
  • Lack of concentration or memory problems
  • Irritability
  • Change in sleep patterns
  • Physical pain
  • Guilt
  • Helplessness or hopelessness
  • Extreme sadness
  • Weight loss or gain
  • Hallucinations or delusions

Treatment

Most bipolar patients will require lifelong treatment to keep this disorder from taking over their lives. Without proper medical attention, the effects of this disorder can be deadly. Treatment for bipolar disorder may involve medications, therapy, hospitalization or any combination of several different treatment modalities.

Scientists are still trying to identify what causes bipolar disorder. Biochemical forces, genes, stress and other environmental factors may trigger these episodes. Regardless of the cause, bipolar disorder can make it impossible for a person to perform normal daily functions, including work, on a regular basis.

If you or someone you know is suffering from bipolar disorder and is unable to maintain a steady income, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are available. By contacting Virginia social security lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman, you'll be putting a knowledgeable SSDI attorney to work for your future.