Bipolar Disorder Awareness Green Ribbon Angel

Bipolar Disorder Awareness Green Ribbon Angel

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be severe. They are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time. Bipolar disorder symptoms can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.

Bipolar disorder often appears in the late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25. Some people have their first symptoms during childhood, while others may develop symptoms late in life.

Bipolar disorder is not easy to spot when it starts. Some people suffer for years before they are properly diagnosed and treated. Like diabetes or heart disease, bipolar disorder is a long-term illness that must be carefully managed throughout your life.

People with bipolar disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called "mood episodes." Each mood episode represents a drastic change from a person's usual mood and behavior. 

Bipolar Awareness Green Ribbon Angel

An overly joyful or overexcited state is called a manic episode, and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode. Sometimes, a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression. This is called a mixed state. Extreme changes in energy, activity, sleep, and behavior go along with these changes in mood.

If you know someone who has bipolar disorder, it affects you too. The first and most important thing you can do is help him or her get the right diagnosis and treatment. You may need to make the appointment and go with him or her to see the doctor. Encourage your loved one to stay in treatment.

To help a friend or relative, you can:

• ·   Offer emotional support, understanding, patience, and encouragement
• ·   Learn about bipolar disorder so you can understand what your friend or relative is experiencing
• ·   Talk to your friend or relative and listen carefully
• ·   Listen to feelings your friend or relative expresses and be understanding about situations that may trigger bipolar symptoms
• ·   Invite your friend or relative out for positive distractions, such as walks, outings, and other activities
• ·   Remind your friend or relative that, with time and treatment, he or she can get better.

Green Awareness Ribbon Angel Art 

Never ignore comments from your friend or relative about harming himself or herself. Always report such comments to his or her therapist or doctor.

The above information is from the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH).

Let this Green Ribbon Angel help bring Awareness to Bipolar Disorder.

Read more on the NIMH website: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder-in-adults/index.shtml

Buy this Green Awareness Ribbon Angel on the Awareness Gallery Zazzle Gift Store or CafePress Unique Gifts Store!

View the images and pictures on the Green Awareness Ribbon Pinterest Board.

Bipolar Disorder Green Awarness Ribbon Angel Pin by AwarenessGallery

Visit Us & See More Art at AwarenessGallery.com!

Subscribe to our Awareness Newsletter for Art Updates!

* indicates required

Email Address *

First Name

Last Name