Wild Mood Swings
Families need to be informed and engaged to help bipolar sufferers lead full and productive lives.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) – held a free support group talk at the Mosaïek Church in Fairland, on 28 May.
Bipolar Awareness Day officially falls on 26 May, and this talk formed part of SADAG’s annual awareness campaign.
Guest speaker for the evening was psychiatrist Dr Leigh Janet from the Sandton Medi-Clinic, who specialises in bipolar mood disorder.
According to Dr Janet, the most accurate way to describe this mental illness that used to be called manic depression is “a mood, energy and goal-directed activity disorder”, as this is how the symptoms most visibly manifest.
The usual age of onset is adolescence or early adulthood, although it can start at any age. It affects around one per cent of the population, and is not restricted to any social or educational class, sex, race, or nationality. The cause is believed to be a combination of biochemical, genetic, and psychological factors.
“There are many caveats,” said Dr Janet. “So many slippery slopes. And if you are a lone wolf, you are not going to do as well as someone with a family who is informed, or a wife nagging you to take your meds.”
If you suspect that you or a family member or a friend is suffering with bipolar disorder, you should consult a mental health professional. If you are not happy with your doctor or therapist, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. If a patient is correctly diagnosed and properly treated, it is possible for him or her to manage her symptoms and lead a full and productive life.
Details: Megan Doty from SADAG, 0800 212 223.
