Do you or someone close to you experience extreme mood swings? Cyclical and extreme changes in mood can be symptoms of Bi-Polar Disorder. Irritability, short temper, needing much more or much less sleep, changes in eating habits and sex drive, impulsiveness, depression, financial irresponsibility and feeling easily overwhelmed can be signs.
There is a strong chemical component to this disorder. However, it can be confusing. Sometimes it seems to others to be a matter of will power or character. The reality is there are definite chemical changes making it nearly impossible for someone with Bi-polar Disorder to manage their moods. Bi-Polar Disorder is hard to understand but there is help. Most often a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication can be used to provide relief.
“Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us but by the attitude we bring to life.”
Depression
Have you or someone close to you been feeling hopeless, unhappy, irritable and/or lethargic? Lack of motivation, decreased ability to function, a profoundly sad mood and less interest in activities that used to bring pleasure can be signs of depression. Most of us experience such feeling sometimes and they usually tend to pass within a couple of weeks. However, if such symptoms continue this may be a condition called clinical depression. But the good news is that it is treatable.
Friends and family may notice that the person experiencing this condition exhibits changes in behavior, mood, perceptions and feelings, as well as in sleeping patterns, eating habits, energy level and the ability to concentrate or make decisions. The possibility of clinical depression should not be taken lightly. At its worst, the sufferer may be silently experiencing thoughts of suicide –or may even make a suicide attempt.
People who are depressed often experience low self esteem, a sense of isolation and shame over their condition. However, they are certainly not alone. As many as 18 million Americans adults suffer from depression every year. But there is help.
It is best to treat depression as soon as possible. If friends or family observe possible depression they should gently encourage treatment. Depression can even be “contagious” in that it can effect—and infect—other family members.
Working with a psychologist to get support and treatment you need can help the sufferer get their life back–and on track. I can help if you contact me at 818-519-8297.
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