What Bipolar Disorder Feels Like

“ I have Bipolar Disorder, but I'm afraid to tell you about it. You might treat me differently. You might even call me names. So I'm quiet about it, and you may never know it's there.

I take medicine and see a therapist, and I don't usually have the highs and lows I once had. When I do, though, I sometimes make bad choices. I need people around me to tell me about the changes because I can't see them myself. With your help, I can get back on track a lot faster.

I'm a great friend, especially to those who offer understanding. ”

A Few Facts About Bipolar Disorder

• Everyone feels down or elated at times. Bipolar Disorder, however, disrupts a person's life.
• It is common for an adolescent with Bipolar Disorder to have a parent with the same illness.
• Bipolar Disorder in adolescents can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms may occur with those of other mental disorders.
• Adolescents with Bipolar Disorder can have rapid mood swings that take them from manic to depressed and back again several times within a single day.
• When they are manic, adolescents are more likely than adults to be irritable and prone to destructive outbursts than to be elated or euphoric.