Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood and energy levels. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience alternating episodes of mania and depression that can greatly impact daily functioning.
Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder symptoms may include:
- Periods of intense joy, euphoria or irritability (mania)
- Racing thoughts, rapid speech and impulsive behavior
- Increased drive to perform tasks, goal-directed activities and projects
- Difficulty concentrating; easily distracted
- Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue
- Reckless participation in risky activities like overspending or sexual indiscretions
This is then often followed by:
- Loss of energy, feelings of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions
- Changes in appetite that lead to weight changes
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Changes in sleep patterns like sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Causes & Risk Factors for Developing Bipolar
Researchers believe bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors, including:
- Genetic predisposition or family history
- Brain structure and function differences
- High levels of stress or childhood trauma
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Certain medical conditions or hormone changes
While the exact cause remains unknown, researchers continue working to identify contributing factors to eventually allow for early intervention.
The Importance of Support & Community
One of the greatest challenges accompanying a bipolar diagnosis is combatting the loneliness, isolation and lack of understanding patients frequently encounter. Receiving support and connecting with others in the bipolar community helps patients feel understood.
Finding Effective Treatments & Coping Strategies
With bipolar disorder, discovering individualized treatment plans and coping strategies that effectively minimize symptoms takes time and consistency. Having access to people who share their experiences provides validation and ideas for patients to try implementing.
Reducing Stigma & Raising Awareness
Despite impacting over 4% of adults per year in America alone, bipolar disorder remains highly stigmatized. Having access to stories and perspectives from others with the condition helps patients feel less alone while reminding society that bipolar is a recognized health condition requiring compassionate support.
How bp Magazine Provides Community
Founded in 1995 by Joanne Doan following her own bipolar II diagnosis, bp Magazine provides the largest online community and publication dedicated solely to bipolar news, research, treatment options, coping methods and personal perspectives from those impacted by the disorder.
Insightful Personal Essays
One of the pillars of bp Magazine's website and publication is its first-person essays contributed from people with bipolar and their caregivers highlighting their own treatment journeys. These stories validate that others share common struggles and provide inspiration plus real-life coping tools.
Latest Research & Developments
bp Magazine includes frequent research roundups and interviews from scientists working towards better understanding the underpinnings of bipolar from genetic markers to the impact of sleep patterns or light exposure. Keeping the community informed promotes progress.
Coping Skills & Advice
Whether suggesting helpful organizational apps to simplify working through forgetfulness or sharing how emotional support animals assist with anxiety and depression, bp Magazine surfaces a wealth of ideas for all stages of the disorder. Tactics span medication management, talk therapy approaches, wellness tools and more.
Ask the Expert Platform
<pFAQs
What types of bipolar disorder content does bp Magazine cover?
Bp Magazine covers a wide range of topics related to bipolar disorder including personal essays, coping strategies, emerging research, medication guides, advice on relationships and work, book/movie reviews, guidance for friends and family of those with bipolar, and more.
What are the different bp Magazine subscription options?
Subscription options include: Online Only ($29.99/year), Print Edition ($47.99/year), and Print & Online Combo ($69.99/year). Monthly billing is also available. The Online Only plan provides ad-free digital access while the Print plans also include bimonthly print magazine issues sent to your home.
Can I access bp Magazine content for free?
Yes, bp Magazine offers a significant portion of its content on bipolar disorder available for free through its website, including articles, interviews, research roundups, etc. However, subscribing provides ad-free access plus exclusive subscriber-only content and discounts.
What are some key benefits of getting a subscription?
Benefits include ad-free access, print issues, discounts on related products/events, and exclusive website content not available to the general public. Subscriptions also help fund bp Magazine's bipolar community outreach efforts.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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