26. Bipolar Disorder Can Also Severely Impact People’s Quality Of Life
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is characterized by extreme mood swings. The person can go into a state of mania, in which he or she may not sleep for days at a time and engage in impulsive and even self-destructive behaviors, like binge drinking and spending money that isn’t in the bank.
At the other extreme is depression, which is characterized by an extremely low mood and lethargy. The person may not want to get out of bed or leave the house for weeks at a time. People with bipolar can be particularly prone to addictive behaviors and damaging relationships, but with the proper treatment and support, they can live incredibly successful lives.