New Delhi, February 24 (IANS). Hollywood actor Robert Carradine committed suicide at the age of 71. His family confirmed that he was suffering from serious mental problems like bipolar disorder for a long time. According to the World Health Organization, bipolar disorder is a mental condition that seriously affects a person’s mood, energy, activity and thinking.
In this disease, the mood of the person keeps changing to extremes. He sometimes goes into mania (mania or hypomania) and sometimes into deep sadness or depression. According to WHO, about 37 million people worldwide (0.5 percent of the global population) suffer from bipolar disorder. This disease is mainly seen in people of working age, but can also occur in youth. Its prevalence is almost equal in men and women.
People suffering from bipolar disorder face misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment and stigma in society. Many people do not get proper treatment, due to which this condition becomes more dangerous.
The World Health Organization states that there are two main stages in bipolar disorder. The first of these is mania or hypomania, in which the person becomes extremely energetic, happy, excited or irritable. In this condition he speaks fast, takes less sleep and does risky work. He may also be delusional sometimes.
At the same time, the second condition is that of depression. During this time, sadness, lack of interest, fatigue, lack of sleep or appetite, feeling guilty, despair and even suicidal thoughts can occur. These symptoms can last for a long time.
Bipolar affects every area of life – relationships deteriorate, education and work are affected. This greatly increases the risk of suicide. People suffering from bipolar disorder are more prone to smoking, alcohol or drug addiction and also have more physical illnesses.
The health organization says that with the right care, people suffering from bipolar disorder can live meaningful lives. It is important to reduce stigma in the society and provide timely treatment. Treatment of bipolar disorder is completely possible.
Medications: Mania and depression can be controlled with mood stabilizers (such as lithium, valproate) and antipsychotics. Medicines help prevent recurrence.
Psychotherapy:- Cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy reduce symptoms and speed up recovery.
Lifestyle:- Regular sleep, exercise, healthy diet and stress management are very important.
Support:- Support from family, friends and support groups is important.
–IANS
MT/DKP