2008 RESEARCH LINKS
New Research in Bipolar Disorder
National Institute of Mental Health
Living in Stigma
Bipolar Scholarship Fund
Depsression and Bipolar National Conference 2008
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness involving extreme mood swings. Sufferers vacillate from manic, energetic "highs" to severe sadness, hopelessness and depression. The disease is also known as manic-depression. The term "bipolar" reflects the nature of the illness, where the person finds themselves at opposite ends of the emotional "poles." Swings can last for hours, days and even months. Bipolar disorder can run in families, starting in late adolescence or early adulthood. Untreated, bipolar disorder can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. However, there are effective treatments: medicines, changes in diet and "talk therapy". A combination usually works best.