Complications of Bipolar Disorder

Behavioral & Emotional Effects of Manic Episodes
A small percentage of bipolar disorder patients demonstrate heightened productivity or creativity during manic phases. More often, however, the distorted thinking and impaired judgment that are characteristic of manic episodes can lead to dangerous behavior, including:

• Spending money with reckless abandon, causing financial ruin in some cases
• Angry, paranoid, and sometimes violent behaviors
• Openly promiscuous behavior

Such behaviors are often followed by low self-esteem and guilt, which are experienced during the depressed phases. During all stages of the illness, patients need to be reminded that the mood disturbance will pass and that its severity can be diminished by treatment.

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Anxiety Disorders: What You Need to Know

Most people experience feelings of anxiety before an important event such as a big exam, business presentation or first date. Anxiety disorders, however, are illnesses that cause people to feel frightened, distressed and uneasy for no apparent reason. Left untreated, these disorders can dramatically reduce productivity and significantly diminish an individual’s quality of life.

How Common Are Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in America; more than 40 million are affected by these debilitating illnesses each year.

What Are the Different Kinds of Anxiety Disorders?
Panic Disorder – Characterized by panic attacks, sudden feelings of terror that strike repeatedly and without warning. Physical symptoms include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, abdominal discomfort, feelings of unreality, and fear of dying.
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