I am 43 yes, have bipolar disorder for past 20 yes. Can it pass on to my children. 8 years old another 16 yr. What symptoms show this disorder.
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Yes, they can be the genetic carriers of this disorder and they need to take certain precautions. You may throw a lot of light in this regard, especially because you had been through many influences that have impacted your condition. You must particularly help them handle anger and their emotions. They must more and more relate to the reality in relation to moderation in everything. The tendency to go to extremes and believe in fantasies must be curbed. Do look at he following symptoms and help your kids deal with them now, instead of later when they manifest themselves as established traits: prevention is better than cure. Bipolar is characterized by two extreme poles i. E. Feeling very high (mania) and suddenly feeling very low (depression). You can ask the doctor for the symptoms he noticed in you for a personal understanding. Regarding some of the symptoms here goes: Mania is a term that describes the emotional highs of bipolar disorder. In general, symptoms of a manic episode may include: ?High energy, excessive activity, and/or restlessness ?Overly good mood ?Irritability ?Fast, erratic talking ?Racing thoughts ?Inability to concentrate ?Little need for sleep ?Feelings of power ?Poor judgment ?Reckless spending ?High sex drive ?Alcohol or drug abuse ?Aggression ?Refusal to admit that there is a problem Bipolar Symptoms: Depression In bipolar disorder, manic episodes alternate with periods of emotional lows, which are known as depressive episodes. Signs of a depressive episode may include: ?Sadness, anxiety, or a feeling of emptiness ?Hopelessness ?Feelings of guilt, feeling worthless, or feeling helpless ?Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, such as sex ?Low energy ?Trouble with concentration or memory ?Restlessness or irritability ?Excessive sleeping or insomnia ?Changes in appetite or weight ?Pain or other physical symptoms not explained by an illness or injury Thoughts of death, or suicidal thoughts
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Yes, bipolar disorder is hereditary. Your children have a 10-15% chance of having bipolar disorder. The symptoms mostly manifest in middle or late adulthood. Keep an eye on any mood symptoms that your children show. Educate them about the illness. There is no need to be afraid, as most of the times the symptoms can be controlled with medicines. Also, most patients live a relatively normal life as the symptoms are episodic. One should monitor sleep changes and mood changes. Any extreme deviation could be a signal for an episode.
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