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Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness is a disorder in the brain that is characterized by bizarre changes in mood. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience shifts from depression to mania (an energetic mood). According to “Healthline” (2005-2013), “little new was discovered about bipolar disorder until French psychiatrist Jean-Pierre Falret published an article in 1851 describing what he called “la folie circulaire,” which translates to circular insanity. The article details patients switching through severe depression and manic excitement, and is considered the first documented diagnosis of bipolar disorder.” There are many myths and misconceptions associated with bipolar disorder, but one common misconception is that bipolar disorder is just another name for mood swings. Before lithium, past treatments for bipolar disorder have included: bleeding and induced vomiting to release black bile, prayer and sacrifice, soaking in mineral water, morphine and other medications, institutionalization and sterilization. The signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder have a wide range from an overly joyful mood (mania) to an extremely sad mood (depressive).
Myths, Misconceptions, and Past Treatments Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that comes with a stigma. There are many myths and misconceptions about bipolar disorder that continue to misinform and contribute to the stigma. It is a false but widely held belief that there is only one type of bipolar disorder. However, there are several types of the disorder: bipolar 1, bipolar 2, and cyclothymic bipolar. Another common misconception is that bipolar disorder is just a fancy name for mood swings. The truth is bipolar mood swing are different; they are extreme and can last for weeks or even months. In early history, bipolar disorder was thought of as

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