Bipolar Disorder
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Bipolar disorder, which is also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news out there, bipolar disorder can be treated and the people with the illness can lead full and productive lives.
More than 2 million American adults or about 1% of the population age 18 and older in any given year, have Bipolar disorder. This illness can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnic group, or socioeconomic background. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence of early adulthood. However, some people have their 1st symptoms during childhood, and some develop them later in life. It is often not recognized as an illness, and people may suffer years before it is properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heat disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed through out a person's life...