The Link between Bipolar Disorder and Suicide
Manic depression is one of the most common psychological disorders in the world and has the reputation of being one of the most serious mental health issues that affects all age ranges. An estimated 19 million Americans suffer from depression and almost 2 million Americans suffer from bipolar disorder (Special Populations, 2011).There are many causes of bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, and unfortunately, there is no cure. With the aid of medication and recognition of the symptoms, bipolar disorder can be managed. Bipolar disorder is a very severe medical condition, which in almost half of the cases, contributes and corresponds with suicide, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal attempts. If this disorder is not properly managed and medicated, the end result can be death.
Manic depression, or bipolar disorder, differs from major depressive disorder. Moments of depression tend to cycle in and out, but with bipolar disorder there does not seem to be an end. Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes radical emotional changes and mood swings, from manic highs to depressive lows (Odle & Ford-Martin, 2006). The majority of bipolar individuals alternate between these high (manic) and low (depressive) episodes for an extended amount of time.
The manic part of bipolar disorder is defined as a mood disorder marked by a hyperactive, wildly optimistic state (Myers, 2009). Manic episodes are characterized by euphoric moods, energy abundances, extreme activity and restlessness. When an individual suffering from bipolar disorder is in one of these manic episodes, their mental activity accelerates at dramatic levels. A manic episode consists of an abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood that lasts at least one week (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2010). During this manic episode an individual is likely to have racing thoughts, lack of inhibitions, denial, diminished need for sleep, and...