Bipolar Disorder Part 1 Analysis

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Symptom Presentation of Bipolar Disorder: Part 1 “Manic- depression distorts moods and thoughts, incites dreadful behaviors, destroys the basis of rational thought, and too often erodes the desire and will to live,” (Jamison, 6). According to the DSM- IV- TR, bipolar disorder (also known as manic- depressive illness) is characterized by the occurrence of at least one or more manic or mixed manic episode(s) during a patient’s lifetime (382). This is often paired with one or more major depressive episodes (382). A definitive indicator of bipolar disorder is a reoccurring alternation between periods of mania and periods of depression (386). Individuals with bipolar disorder experience an array of symptoms during episodes of mania with…show more content…
Jamison’s personal account of bipolar disorder has several implications for the stigma of mental health and the treatment of bipolar disorder. Although there are many consequences with openly discussing one’s mental illness, Jamison believes that “speaking openly was exactly what needed to be done if stigmatizing attitudes were to change.” Throughout her memoir Jamison reflects on her initial reluctance to seek treatment and take medication for her illness. She suggests that the war against treatment is not uncommon among bipolar patients. Although there are several effective treatments for bipolar disorder, due to a lack of information, poor medical advice, stigma, and fear of personal and professional reprisals, many bipolar patients refuse to seek treatment at all. Without a deep understanding of what it is like to live with mental illness like bipolar disorder, it is difficult to understand why one would refuse to seek treatment that could ultimately save this person’s life. By providing us with a personal account of her struggle with bipolar disorder and her war against treatment, Jamison expresses the necessity of de- stigmatization towards mental illness and encourages individuals with bipolar disorder to seek

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