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Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a brain disorder that affects over 270,000 Canadians: approximately one percent of the population. It can affect anyone at any age, but usually develops between the ages of 18-35.
Like asthma, bipolar disorder is a medical illness - in this case a disease of the brain - which interferes with a person's ability to manage their emotions and mood. Most afflicted people have recurrent periodic episodes of depression, lows, and mania, highs - extreme elevated mood. Its occurrence is no one's "fault." People who suffer from Bipolar Disorder are genuinely ill.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid or reduce the number and severity of debilitating episodes. For many people, medications can extend the periods of wellness and reduce the severity of symptoms when they occur. A strong message of hope emerges in that appropriate and caring treatment substantially improves life in a variety of ways for those who receive comprehensive treatment.
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