Are you easily distracted? Do you have trouble sleeping? Are you depressed or sad one moment and full of confidence and optimism the next time? Do you find it difficult to concentrate? Are you reckless and aggressive at times only to lose interest in everything you do the next moment?

If you answered “yes” to the above questions, chances are you’re suffering from bipolar disorder – a mental disorder that affects 222 million people worldwide and is the sixth leading cause of disabilities worldwide.

Bipolar disorder is a serious and debilitating mental illness that is also known as manic-depression or manic-depressive illness. This mood disorder often affects adults and may persist throughout life.

“Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news: bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives,” according to the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

The manic phase of this disorder is characterized by feelings of euphoria, extreme optimism, and a high self-esteem. There is rapid speech, agitation, and reckless behavior. Other symptoms are poor concentration, difficulty sleeping, poor judgment, and an unrealistic belief in one’s abilities and powers.

In the depressive phase, the patient may have persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety or guilt, sleep problems, loss of appetite, irritability, chronic pain with no known cause, and recurring thoughts of suicide.

“Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings - from overly “high” and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression,” said NIMH experts.

The cause of bipolar disorder is unknown but it can be triggered by drug abuse and stressful or traumatic events. The condition tends to run in families, leading some researchers to believe that the problem may be genetic or due to a hormonal imbalance. Untreated, the condition can lead to substance or alcohol abuse and suicide.

Bipolar disorder can have devastating effects on relationships as well as finances stemming from spending sprees during a manic episode or nearly complete isolation and withdrawal during a depressive phase,” said the Mayo Clinic.

If you have any of the above symptoms, seek medical help. To enhance your memory and support healthy brain function, take Neurovar. For more information on this powerful supplement, go to http://neurovar.com/.

Author's Bio: 

Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine www.healthnfitnesszone.com.