Bipolar affective disorder is what is known as a mood disorder, one where your moods can swing from one extreme to another. Sometimes you can be very high (mania), and at other times, very low (depression). The illness affects people in ‘episodes’, highs and lows so extreme that they can interfere with your normal daily life.
Men and women of any age and from any social or ethnic background can develop bipolar disorder, or manic depression as it is sometimes called.
It often first occurs at a time when work, study, family or other emotional pressures are at their greatest. It can also be triggered by childbirth or during the menopause in women. The illness can vary in severity, though sometimes is difficult to diagnose; often it is the depression, which is far more common in society, that is diagnosed first. Depending on the severity, it is generally considered that the best treatment will involve medication and therapy of some sort.
For those who might be living with a bipolar disorder, help can be found in Wales through the MDF Bipolar Organsiation Cymru. More information about the condition on the website, including details of over 25 self-help groups across Wales, and self-management courses run across the country.
Mind Cymru has 20 local groups across Wales, and can give you high standard information about your local services and any help available connected to mental health in your area. Go to their website for good, up-to-date information about any aspect of mental health or phone the MindInfoLine.
Hafal is one of the main charities in Wales for people with severe mental health problems and their carers. They offer services based on the principles of self-management and empowerment, so that people can improve every aspect of their lives. Contact details for each local authority area on the website.
Help and support in south Wales for people with mental health problems, by encouraging them to live full independent lives.
Online resource which covers all aspects of living with bipolar disorder.
The Royal College of Psychiatry website has detailed, up-to-date information available about all types of depression and other mental illness, including symptoms and the best treatment options available.
Lot of useful information to help with your emotional life and mental health, if you're a young person. Also, help if you're a parent or carer wanting to understand more.
Sometimes the best way to way to work through depression is to share feelings with other who are trying to come to terms with it. Journeys, which was previously known as the Depression Alliance, has 25 self-help groups across Wales.
For theraputic help for your condition, or if in need of help in a relationship, go to the BACP site to find out about your local qualified therapist, as well as the types of therapy available.
NHS Direct Wales is a 24 hour helpline, which can give advice about health and health services across Wales. It is staffed by experienced nurses specially trained to give advice over the phone and provide information about all your local services.
© 2012 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales