Red Flags to Bipolar Disorder!

BIPOLAR GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Red Flag sign 1. (Signs of Mania)

Some of these symptoms can't be observed by anyone but the person experiencing them, but he or she may tell friends and loved ones about them.
Unusual distractibility Enhanced creative thinking and/or behaviors Flight of ideas, Disorientation, Disjointed thinking, Racing thoughts, Increased focus on religion or religious activities
Psychosis (these symptoms are not present in hypomania)
Hallucinations
Delusions
Paranoia
Red Flags 2. (Signs of Depression)
Mania/hypomania is the upswing of manic depression, and depression is the downswing. An episode of depression may be very debilitating, often leaving the sufferer with significant problems in functioning. It is an extreme emotional state that impairs daily living, so it is important to be familiar with the warning signs of depression. Here's a look at the common warning signals of bipolar depression, which occurs in both bipolar I and bipolar II disorders and, to a slightly lesser degree, in cyclothymia.

There are a number of warning signs ( red flags) that you or someone you love may be experiencing depression. These symptoms of depression are organized into broad categories for easier reference. It is important to note that depression is experienced differently from one person to the next so not all symptoms will present for all individuals

Changes in Activity or Energy Level

Physical Changes Caused by Depression

Unexplained aches and pains
Weight loss or gain
Decreased or increased apetite
Psychomotor agitation or retardation

Emotional Pain of Depression
Prolonged sadness
Unexplained, uncontrollable crying
Feelings of guilt
Feelings of worthlessness
Loss of self-esteem
Despair
Hopelessness
Helplessness
Difficult Moods Associated with Depression

Irritability
Anger

Worry/anxiety
Pessimism
Indifference
Self-critical
Changes in Thought Patterns due to Depression
Inability to concentrate
Indecision
Memory problems
Disorganized
Preoccupation with Death
Thoughts of death
Suicidal ideation
Feeling dead or detached

Suicide is another serious issue for those diagnosed with this disorder. It is estimated nearly 30 percent of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder will attempt suicide at least once in their lives. This suicide rate is 20 times that of the general population. Each of us needs to know the warnings signs -- the red flags of despair -- so we may be prepared to help a friend in crisis, to see the cry for help from a loved one and to seek assistance when our own resources for coping have worn thin.
Red Flag 3.(5 Common Warnings of Potential Suicide)
Situational indicators
Loss of a Relationship Via Rejection or Separation
Death of a Loved One
Diagnosis of a Terminal Illness
Loss of Financial Security
A Change in Physical Appearance
Loss of Employment/A New Job
Loss of Self-Esteem
Abuse
Emotional Indicators

Depression
Hopelessness
Helplessness
A Sudden Lift Of Depression!
It is a well-known fact that as a person begins to climb from depression the possibility of a suicide attempt increases. There are two thoughts as to why this happens. The first is that when a person makes up their mind to take their own life, they become more at peace with the situation. They feel more in control and thus the depression begins to lighten. The second idea is that as lethargy lifts, a person finds the energy to carry out suicidal plans made while incapacitated. Regardless of the reason, however, this is a very critical time.
Behavioral Indicators
Acquiring a Weapon
Hoarding Medication
Putting Affairs in Order
Making or Changing a Will
Increased Interest in Suicide
Giving Away Personal Belongings
Mending Grievances
Checking on Insurance Policy
Withdrawing from People
Verbal Indicators
Straightforward Comments:
"I wish I were dead"
"I wish I had the nerve to kill myself."
"I wish I could die in my sleep."
"If it weren't for my kids, my husband ... I would commit suicide."

Hints:
"I hate life."
"Why do I bother?"
"I can't take it anymore."
"Nothing matters anymore."

What is Bipolar Disorder? An interview with Megan