psychological and Mental Health
What does a diagnosis of Bipolar Affective Disorder mean?
Question : What does a diagnosis of Bipolar Affective Disorder mean?
I am currently in therapy and have been for the past year. My therapist suggested I see his company’s psychatrist for possible management of my then depression. So I went to see this doctor. He has since diagnosed me as being Bipolar Affective Disorder without ever telling. What does this mean?
bipolar affective disorder
Best answer:
Answer by Sunshine
It is a very serious condition, it can be treated with rx, but it can cause mild to severe mood swings. You should follow up with this, don’t let it go!
Bipolar Affective Disorder, aka, Bipolar Disorder (used to be called Manic Depression) is a mood disorder. Bipolar refers to the moods of depression and mania.
Depression is characterized by sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in life, weight loss or gain (without trying), low self esteem, feelings of hopelessness, thoughts of suicide, etc…
Mania is characterized by rapid speech, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, hallucinations, grandiose ideas (feeling like god or a celebrity), being easily distracted, poor judgment, etc…
There are two main types of Bipolar Disorder- Bipolar I Disorder- which includes episodes of depression and mania and Bipolar II Disorder- which is depression and hypomania (a more mild form of mania).
Having this diagnosis means you have had episodes of depression and mania (or hypomania) in your life and it is most likely that you will have them again. It is a long-term illness.
There seems to be a genetic component to Bipolar Disorders- it seems to run in families.
If you like your therapist then stay with him and with the psychiatrist. If you do not like them then find ones you like because this is a disease that needs long term treatment and support. It is a good idea to find a support group for people with this type of mood disorder.
Good luck and I hope you find the help you are looking for.