Bipolar

What is bipolar? It used to be called Manic Depression but nobody really understands the dynamics involved in a mental illness that on the whole everybody has a taste of it. Yes, that's right, to some extent everybody has experienced some time or another mental illness. What are the dynamics of bipolar?

Bipolar is actually a brain ailment. The Hypothalimus in the brain is the center of all our cycles. It regulates sleep, rest, appetite, energy level. When the Hypothalimus is in good working order our cycles function beautifully. We get eight hours of sleep, have good energy throughout the day, have a normal appetite, and even our thoughts are positive.

When the Hypothalimus is not functioning properly, major problems can result. Since the main function of the Hypothalimus is regulating the amount of adreniline released into the blood stream, if that valve is stuck open Adreniline flows out unchecked, this is when there is an abundance of energy, the mind has a flight of ideas and begins to race, appetite is supressed, sleep is out of the question, we feel elated! We believe we are superhuman and can do anything!! The valve can remain open for days at which time voices may be heard, objects are seen, paranoid feelings may exist, and there is a feeling that someone or some organization is keeping close watch on you.

Then slam! The valve suddenly shuts. No energy, depression, sleeping for days, no motivation, hopelessness, and at the extreme suicidal thoughts.

People can have rapid cycling in which the mood can shift back and forth from elation to homicidal. The cycling can be lengthy as in every month or two. Know this - we all cycle to some extent. When the cycling gets too much we need a professional intervention.

Since this is a brain ailment psychiatric medication becomes a necessity. Denying this is a problem can get people in a real predicament and this happens when people have suicide attempts, go off in a rage at home, or confront others in public.

Alternative medications, vitamins, herbal suppliments can assist the Hypothalimus. Counseling can be of aid in helping a person befriend the high and low aspects within themselves.

The first step is to have a psychiatric evaluation to see if medication is encouraged, if not research the alternatives, or learn mood calming processes. Bottom line - this will not go away on its own and needs daily vigilance. Learning how to take care of your internal affairs can bring Bipolar into proper balance.