BIPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar Disorder (also known as Manic-Depressive Illness) consists of fluctuations between high, low, or irritable moods. Some people may have mostly depression and others a combination of manic and depressive symptoms. Manic symptoms include severe mood swings, unrealistically or grandiose self-esteem, excessive energy leading to little sleep, and rapid speech and movement. Bipolar Disorder can begin in childhood and during the teenage years, although it is usually diagnosed in adult life. The diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder in children and teens is complex and involves careful observation over an extended period of time.