Bipolar Disorder

The Basics:

How does the brain affect behavior and regulate emotional states?
What is bipolar disorder?
What causes bipolar disorder?

Diagnosis:

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Are there different types of bipolar disorder?
How does bipolar depression differ from major depression?

Risk/Prevention/Epidemiology:

What are the risk factors for development of bipolar disorder?
Are people from different ethnic backgrounds more susceptible to bipolar disorder?
Is there a link between epilepsy and bipolar disorder?
I have been treated for bipolar depression in the past.  Can I prevent an episode in the future?

Treatment:

What are the different types of treatment for bipolar disorder?
What are the different types of talk therapies and what do they do?
What are the different types of medication used to treat bipolar disorder?  How does my doctor choose a medicine?
Can I take other medicines while I am on an antidepressant?
Are ther long-term dangers to taking medication?

Associated Conditions:

I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and anxiety.  How is the combination of conditions treated?
How are alcoholism and bipolar disorder connected?
What are the similarities and differences between borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder?
Is there an overlap between ADHD and bipolar disorder?

Special Populations:

Do children get bipolar disorder?
I want to get pregnant but take medication for bipolar disorder.  What can I do?
Are there any medications I should avoid if I have bipolar disorder?
Are there any medical conditions that can cause mania or depression?

Surviving:

Will I get manic or depressed again after I have recovered?
What is the risk of suicide whe someone is diagnosed with bipolar disorder?
Where can I find out more information about bipolar disorder?