Can a Trauma Cause Bipolar Disorder?
What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar disorder is a serious illness. It is characterized by intense mood swings from a euphoric “high,” or mania, to deep depression. These mood swings are more extreme than the regular happy and sad moods experienced by most people. The extreme moods of bipolar disorder typically cycle with periods of more moderate moods. In others, the disorder appears as long periods of unstable moods. Bipolar disorder typically occurs in late teens or early adulthood. The diagnosis is difficult and often takes several years because symptoms are missed or ignored. The symptoms of bipolar disorder vary according to the cycle. During the manic phase, symptoms include excessive euphoria, irritability or agitation, fast talking, restlessness, insomnia and behavioral changes, such as sexual promiscuity, overspending or risk-taking. During a depressive episode, symptoms include long periods of worry, loss of interest in activities, inability to concentrate, irritability and sui
