Coping with Bipolar Disorder

Sometimes people who are suffering from bipolar disorder do not even realize that they have an illness. If you think that you or someone you love might be suffering from the condition, Dr. Jamison says to keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Rage attacks
• Changes in energy
• Sleeping too much
• Sleeping too little
• Alcohol and drug use

If you or a loved one is diagnosed, Dr. Jamison says it's important to "do the work" to get the best treatment possible. "The work is getting a good doctor. Getting diagnosed. Accepting your diagnosis. Getting good therapy. Getting the right medication," Dr. Jamison says. "And read, read, read. Badger your doctor. Question everything. Don't take anything for granted. No matter how good your doctor is, always go in there with a list of questions."

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