Bipolar Disorder The alternation between depression and hyperactive, wildly optimistic behavior characterizes bipolar disorder, a mental illness affecting many people including a growing number of adolescents. Mania, or the hyperactive phase, has symptoms of being overactive, overly talkative and elated. People often compulsively shop, engage in risky behavior and need little sleep. The depressive part of the cycle is the opposite with long periods of inactivity and sleep.
Advocate & Discuss The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) and Care for Your Mind are examples of organizations that provide support for those with bipolar disorder. Care for Your Mind encourages advocacy and discussion to prevent the narrowing of mental health services. DBSA also provides advocacy but also runs a peer support network and resource center to link patients with necessary services.
Direct service to patients and/or clients with bipolar is beyond the scope of Key Clubbers but raising funds to necessary services and creating awareness campaigns in your schools is a great way to help. With more and more teens being diagnosed, understanding the reality of bipolar disorder and being a friend is a way to serve those with this illness.