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Bipolar Behavior
The dangers of bipolar behavior are real and should not be taken for granted. The patient and his/her family members may experience the perils of bipolar episodes that can range from mild to severe at any given time of the day and without warning.
Bipolar behavior can be extremely destructive. There is no way to tell whether a bipolar individual can be as "normal" as he/she can be. The dramatic changes of moods are simply overwhelming and uncontrollable.
There are two major behavioral episodes in bipolar disorder namely mania and depression. Mania can be described as a feeling of being extremely high, like you're the king/queen of the world and you have power over everything. Depression is the exact opposite. A feeling of extreme sadness and worthlessness to the point of wanting to die, can best describe this phase.
Dangers of bipolar behavior in children and teens
Bipolar children are usually above the age of 6 and teenagers from 15 to 19 years old. These kids with bipolar disorder are highly susceptible to trouble due to the unruly behaviors they may posses.
Learning and socialization are not as easy either. Kids with bipolar disorder are usually avoided by other kids at school and in the community because of their mood switches, sudden outbursts [either of tears or anger] and hard-to-understand behavior.
Another problem with bipolar children is their vulnerability to sexual predators, criminals and other people who might want them to be accomplices. Suicide is another concern especially during the severe depression episodes. Statistics show that suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for teenagers from ages 15 to 19 and 4th leading cause of death for children from ages 10 to 14.
Other dangerous bipolar behaviors can be manifested through violent verbal abuse, cruelty to animals, bullying other kids or animals, substance or alcohol abuse, and self-mutilation. Hyper-sexuality can be observed and it is also common for bipolar children.
Bipolar behavior: characteristic symptoms
The following are just some of the common bipolar behaviors in children and adults:
severe mood swings
explosive temper tantrums that can last for hours
rages
irritability
hostile behavior
distractibility
impulsivity
hyperactivity
giddiness, goofiness, silliness
fidgetiness
restlessness
aggression
racing thoughts
suicidal thoughts or death
Bipolar behavior can be a problem not only for the individual but also to his/her family and friends. In extreme cases it can be life-threatening. The cycle of ever-changing moods and behaviors should be looked into as early as possible to prevent serious problems in the long run.
Treatments are available, as well as alternative measures to alleviate extreme mood swings. Going to the doctor is the first step if you suspect a loved one or yourself to have bipolar behavior/s.
Bipolar disorder itself is a continuous and life-long condition that can only be suppressed with medication and therapy. There is no specific cause and treatment, only methods of suppressing extreme mood episodes.
Some believe that bipolar behavior can be hereditary, while some believe it is because of the environment. Either way, no one can pinpoint the exact cause of this disorder up to now. Continuous studies are being conducted to find out where the condition is coming from and which treatment can perfectly eradicate it.
Individuals with bipolar behavior need utmost understanding and patience. They are not kidding, nor making jokes when mood switches attack. It might be confusing to "normal" people, but it is highly debilitating to those who are living with the condition and those who are living with them.
