Bipolar Disorder

~Manic Episode Perspective~

Is diagnosed by one manic episode.

Understood by the presence of a specific shift in mood, behavior, thought processes, and sense of self that significantly disrupts

a persons quality of life and ability to function.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

ADHD

Is understood by inattention and hyperactivity or impulsivity

Borderline

Personality Disorder

Is understood by the relationship a person has with both themselves and the world.

• Unusually elevated, euphoric, or expansive
  

• Unusually irritable
  

• Often feels as though every possible human emotion is expressed in the same time period.
  

• Lasting for a period of at least a week, can be diagnosed with less.
  

• Decreased need for sleep
  

• More talkative then usual or pressure to keep talking
  

• Increase in goal directed activities, risk taking, or pleasure seeking (ex. spending money, heightened sex drive, taking risks with business etc)
  

• Flight of ideas or thoughts feel like they are racing
  

• Easily distracted
  

• Obsessed with a goal, risk, or pleasure
  

Mood

Schizoaffective Disorder

Diagnosed when someone experiences at least two weeks of psychosis (delusions and hallucinations) whose onset is a manic or major depressive episode.

Pattern of instability that affects all aspects of a person's life:

• Interpersonal relationships
  

• Self-image
  

• Perception of others
  

• Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment
  

• An extreme idealization and devaluation process in interpersonal relationships
  

• Impulsivity that can be self-damaging with high levels of risk or self harm.
  

• Recurrent suicidal behavior, gestures, threats, or self-mutilation
  

• Unstable self-image or sense of self.
  

• Chronic feelings of emptiness
  

• Episodes of unstable mood (ex. intense dissatisfaction with life, irritability, or anxiety - lasts for a few hours to a few days)
  

• Inappropriate, intense anger, or difficulty controlling anger
  

• Inflated self-esteem or sense of grandiosity
  

• Invincibility
  

• Having special abilities or powers
  

Understanding What Bipolar Disorder "Is" and What "It's Not"

Bipolar Disorder is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.

Below is a chart that shows the similarities and differences between how similar diagnoses are understood. The purpose of sharing this is not to create judgment, labeling, or stigmatization. My goal in sharing this information is to build your knowledge so that you are

empowered to make an educated decision in the help you receive and how you receive help.

For A Consultation, Please Call (310) 339-4613

Diagnosis

Behavior

Sense of Self

Other Info.

Thought Processes

• Lack of attention to details or makes many careless mistakes.
  

• Difficulty paying attention during tasks and play.
  

• Doesn't listen even when spoken to directly.
  

• Difficulty following instructions.
  

• Difficulty organizing.
  

• Avoids or dislikes participating in activities that require mental focus.
  

• Loses things frequently.
  

• Forgetful in daily activities
  

• Hyperactive & Impulsive
  

• Fidgets with hands, squirms in seat
  

• Excessively active, especially when its inappropriate.
  

• Difficulty being at rest
  

• Difficulty engaging with others (ex. listening etc)
  

• Talks excessively
  

• Always on the go.
  

• Interrupts.
  

• Lack of patience.
  

No diagnosable mood changes.

No diagnosable changes in a person's sense of self.

Resources & Activities For Understanding Bipolar Disorder From www.voicesofbipolardisorder.com