Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But, on the up side, bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
             In her book, A Brilliant Madness, Patty Duke shares her life with bipolar disorder. Undiagnosed until age 35, Patty experienced her share of manic episodes and depressions. She states, "I knew from a very young age that there was something very wrong with me, but I thought it was just that I was not a good person, that I didn't try hard enough." From panic attacks to crying spells to verbal abuse, Patty lived a life of desperation for many years.
             Patty remembers the disease starting at about 8 years of age. She is taking Lithium twice daily.
             Section Two: Main Characteristics/Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder (from text). What behavior (in the book) of Patty Duke illustrated these characteristics?
             Bipolar symptoms are a cause of great distress or difficulty in functioning at home, work, or other important areas. Or, symptoms require the person to be hospitalized to protect the person from harming himself/herself or others. Or, symptoms include psychotic features (hallucinations, delusions).
             However, the manic phase is the most extreme part of bipolar disorder. A person becomes euphoric, ideas come much too fast, and concentration is nearly impossible. Anger, irritability, fear, and a sense of being out of control are overwhelming. A person's judgment is impaired, and he or she may behave recklessly without a sense of consequence. Some people lose touch with reality and experience delusions and hallucinations (Nolen-Hoeksema, 2001, pag...