Bipolar Disorder: Easing the burden.
Millions of people are diagnosed with affective disorders. Of those affective disorders, more than 2 million in the United States suffer from manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder). “High prevalence and chronicity of affective disorders are the main reasons why they constitute such a significant public health burden” (Ayuso-Mateos, 2004). “The burden imposed by affective disorders is expected to increase by 2020, largely as a consequence of the improved control of communicable diseases and the resultant increased survival into older age” (Ayuso-Mateos, 2004).While early diagnosis and proper treatment are paramount to well-being, misdiagnosis is frequently experienced. "It takes a person an average of 10 years, and an average of four doctors, to get properly diagnosed," said Gloria Pope, a spokespe
rson for the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Bipolar disorder is a life long disease, but the burden can be eased with early detection, proper treatment, precautionary behavior, education of physicians, patients and caregivers, and alternative methods used in combination with prescribed medications. Treatment of bipolar disorder is done mainly through the use of medications: lithium, anti-depressives and anticonvulsant medications, but environment also has been shown to play a factor in episodes. Patients should take into account sleep habits, diet and exercise. A poor sleep routine can trigger mania attacks, while certain foods or additives can prompt mania and depression. Caffeine, antihistamines, smoking and alcohol are stress related external factors also affecting episodes in bipolar patients.
Some topics in this essay:
Disorder Psychoeducation,
,
Alliance Proper,
Psychoeducation PE,
bipolar disorder,
affective disorders,
Gloria Pope,
prescribed medications,
ayuso-mateos 2004,
proper treatment,
patients suffering,
Join now to see the rest of the essay!
Approximate Word count = 549
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)
|
Example Essays Home
