I recently wrote a few short definitions of bipolar disorder related terms. I based the legnth off of Twitter word counts. IE, what you write on Twitter has to be really, really short!
Here are a few more:
TREATING BIPOLAR: Takes a set, daily plan used by yourself and family members. Triggers must be noticed and stopped, relationships must be calm. Meds are essential, but never enough.
BIPOLAR PSYCHOSIS: Misunderstood, very common symptom of bipolar disorder, includes hearing and seeing things, paranoia and false beliefs. Goes with mania. Meds: antipsychotics.
SIGNS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER: Very little sleep without being tired (mania). Mania must be present- elevated mood can feel good or awful. Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADD, psychosis are also present.
BIPOLAR EFFECTIVE DISORDER: Actually bipolar affective disorder. Another name for bipolar disorder (manic depression, bipolar illness) that is used mostly in England. I use bipolar disorder.
ANXIETY DISORDERS: panic, OCD, agoraphobia, social, specific phobias, PTSD, dissociative, general. It’s complicated- general anxiety is very common with bipolar disorder.
BIPOLAR DISORDER CAUSES: Bipolar is a proven genetic illness that runs in families. It’s not an emotional problem. The symptoms can definitely be caused (triggered) by personal choices.
This is a great way to explain the illness and it’s related terms to family and friends!
Julie
