Bipolar Disorder: What You Need to Know

Find out who is affected by this brain disorder and why.

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What Is Bipolar Disease? - Also referred to as “manic depressive illness,” bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that shifts a person’s mood from states of mania (happiness) to feeling very low and depressed. This disorder also impacts one’s energy level and makes it hard for people to do everyday activities like go to work or school.  (Photo: Richard Flood/Getty Images)
Get Help - If someone has said something to you about wanting to kill themselves or you are noticing a lot of signs, DO NOT sit idly by. Call a doctor, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or try to convince your loved one to go to the hospital immediately and seek help.   (Photo: Izabela Habur/Getty Images)Prepping for Your Test - You have made your doctor’s appointment, but there some things that you can do to prepare for it, says Mayo Clinic. Make sure that you know of any restrictions — some tests may require that you do not eat 12 hours or more before the test. Jot down any symptoms you may have had so you can talk to your doctor about it and a list of any medicines or vitamins you are taking.  (Photo: Getty Images/STOCK)

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Jesse Jackson Jr. and Mental Health - With recent news of Jesse Jackson Jr. receiving 2.5 years in prison for illegal spending of campaign funds, many blame his bipolar disorder for his downfall. Read more about bipolar disorder, who it affects and why African-Americans are less likely to be diagnosed with it. —Kellee Terrell(Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images)

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