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Lucid dreams can be more than escapist fantasy, but in order to reap the benefits of your slumbering mind, you must first tell your brain that your dreams matter. Welcome to week two of Lifehacker's Lucid Dream Workshop, oneironauts.

The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming

So why bother with lucid dreaming? First and foremost, lucid dreaming is fun. Like, really fun. My first lucid dream occurred when I was a teenager. I had just started reading a book about lucid dreaming and beginner's luck struck me in a hotel room while on a family vacation:

I found myself talking to a dream friend-who wasn't real but was convincing in my dream state-while standing on the football field at my high school. While we conversed I came to an eye opening realization: I'm on a trip with my family right now, so how could I be at school? Suddenly, everything stopped and became more vivid. The grass felt real, the sun on my skin warmed me, and I became very aware that I didn't know the person I had been speaking to. "Am I dreaming?" I wondered allowed. "If I'm dreaming, then I can fly." I felt my feet leave the ground and I hovered gently above the dream friend. "I can fly. I can go anywhere!" I thought as the exhilaration of flight pushed me higher and higher. Soon I was in the clouds planning to see the world from the comfort of my bed.

The dream didn't last much longer, as I couldn't maintain my lucidity, but I woke up ecstatic. It was the most fun I'd ever had sleeping and I couldn't wait to do it again.

But lucid dreams can provide other opportunities as well, if you're willing to put in the legwork. Your dreams can be a sanctum for personal reflection and deep meditation; a place to chat with your true self and mull over big decisions without the distractions of the waking world. Dreams can also be a place to practice real-life activities. Think of the dream world as a mental rehearsal space, where you can go over your big presentation for work, concentrate on your athletic routines, or even further your studies before a big exam.

If you're a creative type, lucid dreams can be an endless source of artistic inspiration. The dream world is your canvas and you can create anything in it. Lastly, dreams are a safe place to experiment and overcome anxiety. You can stand up to a bully, practice being social, find the courage to ask your boss for a raise, or conquer your fear of public speaking.

The Risks of Lucid Dreaming

Lucid dreaming is generally very safe for those who are mentally stable, but it's important to go over some of the potential risks associated with the practice.

Sleep paralysis occurs for almost everyone at night during the REM cycle-to keep you from physically acting out your dreams-but some people experience a state that's in between dreaming and waking when they try lucid dreaming. This can be frightening since you can't move, you're aware that you're awake, but still may be experiencing hallucinations from your dream. This kind of sleep paralysis is uncommon, but it's definitely a possibility while experimenting with lucid dreams. Fortunately, there are ways to either wake yourself up from this state, or induce a full sleep/dream state, but we'll cover those later on.

One of the best perks of lucid dreams can also be one of the worst pitfalls: realistic feelings. The lucid dream state can offer euphoric feelings of sight, motion, happiness, and even sex, but that means feelings on the other side of the spectrum can happen as well. Fear, sadness, and pain are all possible in a lucid dream too. That said, negative feelings like that are still more likely to occur in the waking state since, unlike the dream state, you have less control over the world. And no, you don't die in real life if you die in a dream. Trust me, I've died many times in my dreams.

There's also the possibility of "dream claustrophobia," which is when people become lucid in a dream scenario they are unable to manipulate or awaken from. But those aren't that different from normal dreams-they're just more vivid. And lastly, some fear that using lucid dreams as a form of escapism will force them out of touch with reality. After all, why would you want to spend time in the normal world when you can be in your own personal world where you have unimaginable power? Well, lucid dreams only last as long as your REM cycles occur while you sleep, and training to be lucid at any time you choose takes years and years of training. In short, your dream escapism sessions won't be any more harmful than watching a movie or playing a video game-except perhaps a bit more enlightening.

If any of these mild risks do scare you, however, lucid dreaming may not be right for you. Also, if you happen to suffer from borderline personality disorder, or any other mental disorder that makes it difficult for you to know what's real and what isn't, you're better off sleeping the old-fashioned way: lucid dreaming could cause you to suffer from dream-reality confusion and exacerbate your condition.

But again, while these scenarios are a very real possibility, they're all still unlikely occurrences for those in relatively healthy mental states who work their way up to lucid dreams with gradual, deliberate practice. Lucid dreams are a lot like a swimming pool; it's a place where you can struggle and drown, but if you learn how to swim, there's nothing to fear and you'll have a blast splashing around.

Assignment: Start and Maintain a Dream Journal

Learning how to wake up in your dreams doesn't matter until you can develop your dream memory. You must learn how to stand before you can walk. In fact, you may have had a lucid dream already, but don't know it because you don't remember that it occurred.

Your brain usually tries to forget your dreams automatically. It knows that those experiences aren't real and, as you wake up, tries to push them to the back of your mind to make room for immediate memories from the waking world. But there's an easy way to disrupt this: a dream journal. Keep a pen and pad next to your bed at all times. It should be easy to grab and use immediately. Don't put it in your nightstand drawer, don't toss it under your bed, and don't use a writing tool that takes a lot of effort to use (fancy pens, quills, etc.). You need to be able to reach over, grab, and write. Also, don't use your phone for this. The act of writing it down, like taking notes in class, will only help you commit the dream to memory. Or if you have artistic skills and can draw them out, that's even better.

Getting a good night's sleep- at least seven hours' worth -is also a big help during this exercise, as well as throughout your foray into lucid dreaming. Without consistent, restful sleep, lucid dreaming will be almost impossible. You don't get stronger by spending less time in the gym.

Additionally, don't keep your alarm clock too far away from your bed. You only have a few precious moments to commit your dream to memory when you wake up, and chasing down an alarm will waste that time window. If possible, go to bed early and try to wake up without an alarm. When you awaken, take a few seconds to go over what you just experienced, then grab your journal and write it all down as fast as possible. Do this as often as you can and your brain will gradually reconfigure its normal wakeup protocol to match your newly declared memory needs.

"Oh, did you want to hold onto this?" Your brain will say as you awaken from a wonderful dream, and you'll grab your dream journal with a resounding "Hell yeah!"

Okay, oneironauts: sleep tight and dream on.

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The Benefits and Risks of Lucid Dreaming

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Lucid dreams can be more than escapist fantasy, but in order to reap the benefits of your slumbering mind, you must first tell your brain that your dreams matter. Welcome to week two of Lifehacker's Lucid Dream Workshop , oneironauts. So why bother with lucid dreaming? First and foremost, lucid dreaming is fun.

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Is Sleep Paralysis a Symptom of a Serious Problem?

Sleep researchers conclude that, in most cases, sleep paralysis is simply a sign that your body is not moving smoothly through the stages of sleep. Rarely is sleep paralysis linked to deep underlying psychiatric problems.

Over the centuries, symptoms of sleep paralysis have been described in many ways and often attributed to an "evil" presence: unseen night demons in ancient times, the old hag in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, and alien abductors. Almost every culture throughout history has had stories of shadowy evil creatures that terrify helpless humans at night. People have long sought explanations for this mysterious sleep-time paralysis and the accompanying feelings of terror.

What Is Sleep Paralysis?

Sleep paralysis is a feeling of being conscious but unable to move. It occurs when a person passes between stages of wakefulness and sleep. During these transitions, you may be unable to move or speak for a few seconds up to a few minutes. Some people may also feel pressure or a sense of choking. Sleep paralysis may accompany other sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is an overpowering need to sleep caused by a problem with the brain's ability to regulate sleep.

When Does Sleep Paralysis Usually Occur?

Sleep paralysis usually occurs at one of two times. If it occurs while you are falling asleep, it's called hypnagogic or predormital sleep paralysis. If it happens as you are waking up, it's called hypnopompic or postdormital sleep paralysis.

What Happens With Hypnagogic Sleep Paralysis?

As you fall asleep, your body slowly relaxes. Usually you become less aware, so you do not notice the change. However, if you remain or become aware while falling asleep, you may notice that you cannot move or speak.

What Happens With Hypnopompic Sleep Paralysis?

During sleep, your body alternates between REM (rapid eye movement) and NREM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep. One cycle of REM and NREM sleep lasts about 90 minutes. NREM sleep occurs first and takes up to 75% of your overall sleep time. During NREM sleep, your body relaxes and restores itself. At the end of NREM, your sleep shifts to REM. Your eyes move quickly and dreams occur, but the rest of your body remains very relaxed. Your muscles are "turned off" during REM sleep. If you become aware before the REM cycle has finished, you may notice that you cannot move or speak.

Continued

Who Develops Sleep Paralysis?

Up to as many as four out of every 10 people may have sleep paralysis. This common condition is often first noticed in the teen years. But men and women of any age can have it. Sleep paralysis may run in families. Other factors that may be linked to sleep paralysis include:

How Is Sleep Paralysis Diagnosed?

If you find yourself unable to move or speak for a few seconds or minutes when falling asleep or waking up, then it is likely you have isolated recurrent sleep paralysis. Often there is no need to treat this condition.

Check with your doctor if you have any of these concerns:

You feel anxious about your symptoms

Your symptoms leave you very tired during the day

Your symptoms keep you up during the night

Your doctor may want to gather more information about your sleep health by doing any of the following:

Ask you to describe your symptoms and keep a sleep diary for a few weeks

Discuss your health history, including any known sleep disorders or any family history of sleep disorders

Refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation

Conduct overnight sleep studies or daytime nap studies to make sure you do not have another sleep disorder

How Is Sleep Paralysis Treated?

Most people need no treatment for sleep paralysis. Treating any underlying conditions such as narcolepsy may help if you are anxious or unable to sleep well. These treatments may include the following:

Improving sleep habits -- such as making sure you get six to eight hours of sleep each night

Using antidepressant medication if it is prescribed to help regulate sleep cycles

Treating any mental health problems that may contribute to sleep paralysis

Treating any other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or leg cramps

What Can I Do About Sleep Paralysis?

There's no need to fear nighttime demons or alien abductors. If you have occasional sleep paralysis, you can take steps at home to control this disorder. Start by making sure you get enough sleep. Do what you can to relieve stress in your life -- especially just before bedtime. Try new sleeping positions if you sleep on your back. And be sure to see your doctor if sleep paralysis routinely prevents you from getting a good night's sleep.

Sources

SOURCES:

American Academy of Sleep Medicine: "Sleep Paralysis."

National Sleep Foundation: "Ask the Sleep Expert: Sleep & Parasomnias;" "Sleep Paralysis;" "Topics A to ZZZZs: Narcolepsy;" and "What Happens When You Sleep?"

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Sleep researchers conclude that, in most cases, sleep paralysis is simply a sign that your body is not moving smoothly through the stages of sleep. Rarely is sleep paralysis linked to deep underlying psychiatric problems. Over the centuries, symptoms of sleep paralysis have been described in many ways and often attributed to an "evil" presence: unseen night demons in ancient times, the old hag in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, and alien abductors.

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To some extent

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It's not harmful and should pass in a few seconds or minutes, but can be very frightening.

Many people have sleep paralysis once or twice in their life, while others experience it a few times a month or more regularly.

It affects people of all ages and is most common in teenagers and young adults.

This page covers:
When to see your GP Treatments
Symptoms of sleep paralysis

The main symptom of sleep paralysis is being completely aware of your surroundings but temporarily being unable to move or talk.

This usually occurs as you're waking up, but can happen when falling asleep.

During an episode of sleep paralysis you may:

find it difficult to take deep breaths, as if your chest is being crushed or restricted

be able to move your eyes - some people can also open their eyes but others find they can't

have a sensation that there's someone or something in the room with you (hallucination) - many people feel this presence wishes to harm them

feel very frightened

The length of an episode can vary from a few seconds to several minutes.

You'll be able to move and speak as normal afterwards, although you may feel unsettled and anxious about going to sleep again.

When to see your GP

In many cases, sleep paralysis is a one-off and won't happen again. It's not harmful and isn't usually a sign of an underlying problem.

But it's a good idea to see your GP if:

you experience sleep paralysis regularly

you feel very anxious about going to sleep or you're struggling to get enough sleep

you feel very sleepy during the day, or have episodes where you fall asleep suddenly or lose muscle control - these are symptoms of a related sleep disorder called narcolepsy

Your GP can suggest ways to improve your sleep (see Treatments below for more information). If your symptoms are severe, they may refer you to a sleep specialist such as a neurologist.

Causes of sleep paralysis

Sleep paralysis happens when parts of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep occur while you're awake.

REM is a stage of sleep when the brain is very active and dreams often occur. The body is unable to move, apart from the eyes and muscles used in breathing, possibly to stop you acting out your dreams and hurting yourself.

It's not clear why REM sleep can sometimes occur while you're awake, but it has been associated with:

not getting enough sleep (sleep deprivation or insomnia)

irregular sleeping patterns - for example, because of shift work or jet lag

narcolepsy - a long-term condition that causes a person to suddenly fall asleep at inappropriate times

a family history of sleep paralysis

sleeping on your back

In many cases, sleep paralysis is a one-off or very occasional event that occurs in someone who is otherwise healthy.

Treatments for sleep paralysis

Sleep paralysis often gets better over time, but improving your sleeping habits and sleeping environment may help.

It can help to:

get a good night's sleep - most adults need six to eight hours of good quality sleep a night

go to bed at roughly the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning

create a sleeping environment that's comfortable, quiet, dark and not too hot or cold

avoid eating big meals, smoking, or drinking alcohol or caffeine shortly before going to bed

get regular exercise (but not within four hours of going to bed)

Read more about how to improve your sleep habits.

If your sleep paralysis is particularly severe, a specialist doctor may suggest taking a course of antidepressant medication, such as clomipramine.

These work by altering REM sleep and are typically prescribed at lower doses than when used for depression.

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It's not harmful and should pass in a few seconds or minutes, but can be very frightening. Many people have sleep paralysis once or twice in their life, while others experience it a few times a month or more regularly. It affects people of all ages and is most common in teenagers and young adults.

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By Ryan Hurd

Hypnagogia is the imagery, sounds and strange bodily feelings that are felt at "sleep onset." This is a simplification though, as researchers have noted hypnagogic imagery in the lab at periods of quiet wakefulness as well as stage 1 sleep. Others have correlated hypnagogia with pre-sleep alpha waves and also REM intrusion into sleep onset. The truth is that the wake-sleep transition is still not understood. And neither are its trippy visuals.

Few people remember hypnagogic imagery. This stage is so slippery, it may only last a few seconds. But its imagery is well-recorded by dream enthusiasts from centuries past: whispy lights, multi-dimentional geometric objects, or a sudden image like a stranger's face or a teddy bear. Occassional fully-articulated dream scenes do manifest, but they are disconnected, usually a single image or moment, rather than a long narrative plot as we see in REM-style dreaming.

Strange noises, voices and rushing sounds are typical, as well as weird mechanistic sounds like beeps and boops. Others hear their name called, as if from the next room. Sometimes it's pleading, other times, accusing. By the way, this stuff can happen coming out of sleep too, in which case it's called hypnopompic imagery. (Imagery, in this sense, includes sounds and bodily feelings.)

Some hear music - I personally have had lucid hypnagogic orchestras from time to time, with the ability to listen passively or focus on a particular instrument to induce a solo. These concerts have included classical music, jazz, and even down-tempo darkwave electronica, each time filling me with awe and joy upon awakening.

Lastly, the bodily sensations felt during hypnagogia are just bizarr-o. Feelings include floating, falling, and being separated from your body. Many OBEs occur from sleep onset. Then there's the hypnic jerk, that sudden awakening right after a full-dream immersion such as walking down the stairs and tripping or driving in a car and hitting the bumper of the car in front of you. Bam!

Some people are haunted by the hypnagogic imagery. Rather than lasting only few moments, it goes on and on for long stretches of time. They may open their eyes and still see the dream imagery overlaid -and sometimes - interacting with the physical environment. The most common nightmarish visions are creepy-crawly insects, like roaches crawling upon the walls and on the ceiling, dropping on to the bed. Sometime hypnagogic sufferers sense the "invisible presence" felt in sleep paralysis visions, but overall the mythological and humanoid entities are more rare for non-paralyzed hypnagogia.
Creativity and Discovery
Many inventors, artists and scientists have reported eureka! moments that came during a quick snooze. In fact, Thomas Edison and Salvador Dali both had methods in which they incubated hypnagogic dreams on purpose, according to Deidre Barrett in the Committee of Sleep.

Most famously, chemist August Kekulé came to understand the structure of the benzene molecule after falling asleep in front of the fire, and seeing a classic ouroboros: a series of molecules made out of snakes, with one swallowing another's tail.
The Hypnagogic Brain
The neurological relationship to hypnagogic imagery has been pondered over for decades. One of Freud's contemporaries, Henry Silberer, a brilliant dream researcher in his own right, thought that hypnagogic imagery is the clearest example of autosymbolism, in which whatever we're thinking right now is converted into a visual metaphor. Psychologist Harry Hunt noted that the imagery is less like REM dreaming imagery and more closely resembling the stuff seen during meditation, sensory deprivation (the Ganzfeld Effect) and especially the psychedelic ecstasy from LSD or psilocybe. Medical researcher Rick Straussman suggested in DMT: The Spirit Molecule that the pineal gland gives up a precious jewel of endogenous DMT when we enter into a hypnagogic trance that is characterized by predominant THETA brainwaves.

Another promising finding comes from a 2010 study published by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Researchers suggest that hypnagogic imagery is not tied to brain activity in the frontal cortex but to the deactivation of different parts of the brain at sleep onset. Neuroscientists have long known that different parts of the brain "go to sleep" at different times, but until recently it was not known that thalamus goes off-line before the cortex, often with several minutes in between.

Because of the thalamus's role in processing visual imagery as well as spatial information, this could explain why we feel awake still when suddenly some bizarre imagery drifts across the visual field. Perhaps without mediation by the thalamus, we are made consciously aware of not only autosymbolic visual imagery, but also bodily and spatial feelings as well.
Finding the Balance
Some readers of this blog have shared how 5-HTP and melatonin can be used to prevent runaway hypnagogia. This is a more gentle approach than the pharmaceutical answer, which includes dream-killing antidepressants. Still, this is an option for those plagued by unwanted hypnagogic hallucinations.

On the other hand, hypnagogia can be willfully promoted as a meditative state. I know one meditator who regularly has 20+ minutes of hypnagogia, which she uses for artistic inspiration and spiritual practice. Like lucid dreaming and remembering dreams in general, this takes willpower and patience. Sleeping on your back promotes HH, but be careful, as this can promote sleep paralysis as well.

Try taking naps in the afternoon as well, and avoid alcohol or caffeine for a few days to strengthen your sleep architecture.Once mastered, sleep paralysis can lead the way to more hypnagogic adventures.
Reference
Thalamic deactivation at sleep onset precedes that of the cerebral cortex in humans Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2010 February 23; 107(8): 3829-3833.

The Committee of Sleep by Deidre Barrett, PhD.

DMT: The Spirit Molecule by Rick Strassman, MD.

CC First Image: Psychedelic Cactus " by vgm8383

Filed Under: Tagged With: New Dream Studies creativity, hypnagogia, hypnagogic imagery, hypnopompia, Salvador Dali, sleep onset, Thomas Edison

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Hypnagogia and Hypnopompia | dream studies portal

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By Ryan Hurd Hypnagogia is the imagery, sounds and strange bodily feelings that are felt at "sleep onset." This is a simplification though, as researchers have noted hypnagogic imagery in the lab at periods of quiet wakefulness as well as stage 1 sleep.

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“ii) the one who possess an exceptional ability to evoke events relating to his/her past.”

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Hyperthymesia

Hyperthymesia is extremely unique neurological condition in which people used to remember practically every detail of their life. They seem to recall every single event that has happened to their lives. It is curious that these people spend a large amount of time whilst reminding the past events. You may not remember as to what you were doing in the same day last week, what you ate, what you wore, whom did you meet, but people having hyperthymesia are capable to tell you precisely all these. It appears as if there is a recording device in the brain where everything has been amazingly stored. However, their memory is only limited to their own life-events which is why it is also called Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM) or Hyperthymesia Syndrome.

While condition of hyperthymesia enables you to remember almost anything, it leaves some harmful effects on the thinking ability. AJ is one such example as she suffers from major disruption due to the flood of memories. She is often exhausted by the uncontrollable stream of memories and for her it is simply a burden. It seems as if she gets lost in the world of remembering things. As it turns out, AJ lives in her past and never bothers too much about future or even present life.

How was Hyperthymesia first Discovered?

The first of the neurologists and researchers who described the term hyperthymesia were James McGaugh, Larry Cahill, Elizabeth Parker, and Dr. Paul Tejera of the University of California. These researchers had recognized the case of a woman (AJ) who could bring practically every event to her mind. This is almost impossible for an average person. They divided hyperthymesia into two broad classifications; i) the person who spends most of his/her time while recalling the past events, and; ii) the one who possess an exceptional ability to evoke events relating to his/her past.

The Californian researchers came out some of the most bizarre facts about hyperthymesia that is to say, the individuals possessing exceptional memory can only remember those events that bear personal importance for them. The hyperthymestic individuals are believed to have uncontrollable associations while they recall a date or event, and they visualize the dramatic reflection of that event within their minds. It is curious that these superhumans recall past memories without putting too much stress on their minds. It's like they are not doing anything extraordinary.

In order to understand the concept of Hyperthymesia, we assume the difference between exceptional memory in which individuals employ usual tactics (such as mnemonics) to recall past events, and Hyperthymesia when individuals do not employ deliberate approaches. Hyperthymestic individuals believe to possess events that are attached to their personal life, that is not to say, it is derived through mnemonic tactics. In fact, hyperthymestic individuals automatically evoke incidents in the same way as the computer does. This is an absolute non-deliberate act.

What is Amygdala?

An almond-shaped mass of nuclei, amygdala, exists in the temporal lobe of human brain. Amygdala is fundamentally related with memory-storage involving emotional events. This limbic structure comes into play while we undergo several emotions that is to say pleasure, anger, happiness, or fear. Amgydala is primarily responsible for deciding what memory is stored in which part of the brain. Scientists believe that this decision relies on the extent to which an event arouses emotional response.

Does Amygdala play a Significant Role in Autobiographical Memory (AM)?

It is reasonable to assume that Amygdala plays an imperative role in the autobiographical memory (AM) because it is associated with the AM core network. As such, evidence did suggest that it helps in encrypting stimuli that are emotionally charged. Having said that, however, latest findings have denied all these circumstantial evidences and argue that it is nothing but a mere speculation.

Hyperthymestic Individuals examined in the University of California, Irvine

Eleven individuals are thought to have Hyperthymesia and the latest findings are based on these individuals. All these HSAM (Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory) participants were recognized on the basis of screening tests which they underwent. They were not only examined for events that were publicly known but were also assessed for memories which were associated with their personal being. Scientists obtained structural MRI scans of their entire brains. The upshots of the findings were remarkable; all the HSAM contributors performed better at recollecting not only public events and personal occurrences but also the dates on which these events took place. These new findings brought many new questions into the neurobiology of autobiographical memory.

In the University of California, Irvine, scientists evaluated the brain of eleven participants by assessing their brain structure as well as cognitive function. In the cognitive assessment, scientists carried out a research on the battery of memory tests with respect to their autobiographical memory. Scientists claim that they observe a significant difference in the neuroanatomy of HSAM participants as against those who employ structural MRI. The evidence suggests that the brain structure primarily rely on two things; i) change in behavior, ii) change in memory.

Different Memory Tests

1. Names to Faces

2. Visual Memory

3. Forward and backward digit span

4. Visual Reproduction

5. Logical Memory test

6. Verbal Paired Associates

7. Leyton Obsessional Inventory Score-Short Form (LOI-SF)

8. Edinburg Handedness Inventory (EHI)

9. Becks Depression Inventory II (BDI)

Alberta

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What is Hyperthymesia? The Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM)

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Hyperthymesia is extremely unique neurological condition in which people used to remember practically every detail of their life. They seem to recall every single event that has happened to their lives. It is curious that these people spend a large amount of time whilst reminding the past events.

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To some extent.

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Hyperthymesia - Superior Autobiographical Memory & Hyperthymesia Recall

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Hyperthymesia, or Superior Autobiographical Memory, is a human superpower known to only 12 people in the entire world that lets them recall the events of every day of their lives.

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More resouces

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You may have heard people call someone else a "psychopath" or a "sociopath." But what do those words really mean?

You won't find the definitions in mental health's official handbook, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Doctors don't officially diagnose people as psychopaths or sociopaths. They use a different term instead: antisocial personality disorder.

Most experts believe psychopaths and sociopaths share a similar set of traits. People like this have a poor inner sense of right and wrong. They also can't seem to understand or share another person's feelings. But there are some differences, too.

Do They Have a Conscience?

A key difference between a psychopath and a sociopath is whether he has a conscience, the little voice inside that lets us know when we're doing something wrong, says L. Michael Tompkins, EdD. He's a psychologist at the Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center.

A psychopath doesn't have a conscience. If he lies to you so he can steal your money, he won't feel any moral qualms, though he may pretend to. He may observe others and then act the way they do so he's not "found out," Tompkins says.

A sociopath typically has a conscience, but it's weak. He may know that taking your money is wrong, and he might feel some guilt or remorse, but that won't stop his behavior.

Both lack empathy, the ability to stand in someone else's shoes and understand how they feel. But a psychopath has less regard for others, says Aaron Kipnis, PhD, author of The Midas Complex. Someone with this personality type sees others as objects he can use for his own benefit.

They're Not Always Violent

In movies and TV shows, psychopaths and sociopaths are usually the villains who kill or torture innocent people. In real life, some people with antisocial personality disorder can be violent, but most are not. Instead they use manipulation and reckless behavior to get what they want.

"At worst, they're cold, calculating killers," Kipnis says. Others, he says, are skilled at climbing their way up the corporate ladder, even if they have to hurt someone to get there.

If you recognize some of these traits in a family member or coworker, you may be tempted to think you're living or working with a psychopath or sociopath. But just because a person is mean or selfish, it doesn't necessarily mean he has a disorder.

Continued

'Cold-Hearted Psychopath, Hot-Headed Sociopath'

It's not easy to spot a psychopath. They can be intelligent, charming, and good at mimicking emotions. They may pretend to be interested in you, but in reality, they probably don't care.

"They're skilled actors whose sole mission is to manipulate people for personal gain," Tompkins says.

Sociopaths are less able to play along. They make it plain that they're not interested in anyone but themselves. They often blame others and have excuses for their behavior.

Some experts see sociopaths as "hot-headed." They act without thinking how others will be affected.

Psychopaths are more "cold-hearted" and calculating. They carefully plot their moves, and use aggression in a planned-out way to get what they want. If they're after more money or status in the office, for example, they'll make a plan to take out any barriers that stand in the way, even if it's another person's job or reputation.

Brain Differences

Recent research suggests a psychopath's brain is not like other people's. It may have physical differences that make it hard for the person to identify with someone else's distress.

The differences can even change basic body functions. For example, when most people see blood or violence in a movie, their hearts beat faster, their breathing quickens, and their palms get sweaty.

A psychopath has the opposite reaction. He gets calmer. Kipnis says that quality helps psychopaths be fearless and engage in risky behavior.

"They don't fear the consequences of their actions," he says.

Sources

SOURCES:

Aaron Kipnis, PhD, clinical psychologist.

L. Michael Tompkins, EdD, licensed psychologist, Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center.

King's College London: "Psychopathy Linked to Brain Abnormalities."

University of California Health: "Psychopaths not all psychos."

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Sociopath vs. Psychopath: What's the Difference?

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You may have heard people call someone else a "psychopath" or a "sociopath." But what do those words really mean? You won't find the definitions in mental health's official handbook, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Doctors don't officially diagnose people as psychopaths or sociopaths.

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For resources

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You may have heard people call someone else a "psychopath" or a "sociopath." But what do those words really mean?

You won't find the definitions in mental health's official handbook, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Doctors don't officially diagnose people as psychopaths or sociopaths. They use a different term instead: antisocial personality disorder.

Most experts believe psychopaths and sociopaths share a similar set of traits. People like this have a poor inner sense of right and wrong. They also can't seem to understand or share another person's feelings. But there are some differences, too.

Do They Have a Conscience?

A key difference between a psychopath and a sociopath is whether he has a conscience, the little voice inside that lets us know when we're doing something wrong, says L. Michael Tompkins, EdD. He's a psychologist at the Sacramento County Mental Health Treatment Center.

A psychopath doesn't have a conscience. If he lies to you so he can steal your money, he won't feel any moral qualms, though he may pretend to. He may observe others and then act the way they do so he's not "found out," Tompkins says.

A sociopath typically has a conscience, but it's weak. They may know that taking your money is wrong, and they might feel some guilt or remorse, but that won't stop their behavior.

Both lack empathy, the ability to stand in someone else's shoes and understand how they feel. But a psychopath has less regard for others, says Aaron Kipnis, PhD, author of The Midas Complex. Someone with this personality type sees others as objects he can use for his own benefit.

They're Not Always Violent

In movies and TV shows, psychopaths and sociopaths are usually the villains who kill or torture innocent people. In real life, some people with antisocial personality disorder can be violent, but most are not. Instead they use manipulation and reckless behavior to get what they want.

"At worst, they're cold, calculating killers," Kipnis says. Others, he says, are skilled at climbing their way up the corporate ladder, even if they have to hurt someone to get there.

If you recognize some of these traits in a family member or coworker, you may be tempted to think you're living or working with a psychopath or sociopath. But just because a person is mean or selfish, it doesn't necessarily mean they have a disorder.

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Sociopath vs. Psychopath: What's the Difference?

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You may have heard people call someone else a "psychopath" or a "sociopath." But what do those words really mean? You won't find the definitions in mental health's official handbook, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Doctors don't officially diagnose people as psychopaths or sociopaths.

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Psychosis is characterized by an impaired relationship with reality. And it is a symptom of serious mental disorders. People who are psychotic may have either hallucinations or delusions.

Hallucinations are sensory experiences that occur within the absence of an actual stimulus. For example, a person having an auditory hallucination may hear their mother yelling at them when their mother isn't around. Or someone having a visual hallucination may see something, like a person in front of them, who isn't actually there.

The person experiencing psychosis may also have thoughts that are contrary to actual evidence. These thoughts are known as delusions. Some people with psychosis may also experience loss of motivation and social withdrawal.

These experiences can be frightening. They may also cause people who are experiencing psychosis to hurt themselves or others. It is important to see a doctor right away if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of psychosis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of psychosis include:

False realities

Delusions and hallucinations are two very different symptoms that are both often experienced by people with psychosis. Delusions and hallucinations seem real to the person who is experiencing them.

Delusions

A delusion is a false belief or impression that is firmly held even though it is contradicted by reality and what is commonly considered true. There are delusions of paranoia, grandiose delusions, and somatic delusions.

People who are experiencing a delusion of paranoia might think that they are being followed when they are not, or that secret messages are being sent to them. Someone with a grandiose delusion will have an exaggerated sense of importance. Somatic delusion is when a person believes they have a terminal illness when in reality they are healthy.

Hallucinations

A hallucination is a sensory perception in the absence of outside stimuli. That means seeing, hearing, feeling, or smelling something that isn't present. A person who is hallucinating might see things that don't exist or hear people talking when they are alone.

Causes

Each case of psychosis is different, and the exact cause is not always clear. There are, however, certain illnesses that cause psychosis. There are also triggers like drug use, lack of sleep, and other environmental factors. In addition, certain situations can lead to specific types of psychosis to develop.

Illnesses

Illnesses that can cause psychosis include:

Also some types of dementia may cause psychosis, such as:

Risk factors

It's not currently possible to precisely identify who is likely to develop psychosis. However, research has shown that genetics may play a role.

People are more likely to develop a psychotic disorder if they have a close family member, such as a parent or sibling who has a psychotic disorder.

Children born with the genetic mutation known as 22q11.2 deletion syndrome are at risk for developing a psychotic disorder, especially schizophrenia.

Types

Some kinds of psychosis are brought on by specific conditions or circumstances that include the following:

Brief psychotic disorder

Brief psychotic disorder, sometimes called brief reactive psychosis, can occur during periods of extreme personal stress like the death of a family member. Someone experiencing brief reactive psychosis will generally recover in a few days to a few weeks, depending on the source of the stress.

Drug- or alcohol-related psychosis

Psychosis can be triggered by the use of alcohol and illegal drugs, including stimulants such as methamphetamine and cocaine. Hallucinogenic drugs like LSD often cause users to see things that are not really there, but this effect is temporary. Some prescription drugs like steroids and stimulants can also cause symptoms of psychosis

People who are addicted to alcohol and certain drugs can experience psychotic symptoms if they suddenly stop drinking or taking the drug to which they are addicted.

Organic psychosis

A head injury or an illness or infection that affects the brain can cause symptoms of psychosis.

Psychotic disorders

Psychotic disorders can be triggered by stress, drug or alcohol use, injury, or illness. They can also appear on their own. The following types of disorders may have psychotic symptoms:

Bipolar disorder

When someone has bipolar disorder, their moods swing from very high to very low. When their mood is high and positive, they may have symptoms of psychosis. They may feel extremely good and believe they have special powers.

When their mood is depressed, the individual may have psychotic symptoms that make them feel angry, sad, or frightened. These symptoms include thinking someone is trying to harm them.

Delusional disorder

A person experiencing delusional disorder strongly believes in things that are not real.

Psychotic depression

This is major depression with psychotic symptoms.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a lifelong disease that is generally accompanied by psychotic symptoms.

Diagnosis

Psychosis is diagnosed through a psychiatric evaluation. That means a doctor will watch the person's behavior and ask questions about what they are experiencing. Medical tests and X-rays may be used to determine whether there is an underlying illness causing the symptoms.

Diagnosing psychosis in children and teenagers

Many of the symptoms of psychosis in adults are not symptoms of psychosis in young people. For example, small children often have imaginary friends with whom they talk. This just represents imaginative play, which is completely normal for children.

But if you are worried about psychosis in a child or adolescent, describe their behavior to a doctor.

Treatment

Treating psychosis may involve a combination of medications and therapy. Most people will experience an improvement in their symptoms with treatment.

Rapid tranquilization

Sometimes people experiencing psychosis can become agitated and be at risk of hurting themselves or others. In these cases, it may be necessary to calm them down quickly. This method is called rapid tranquilization. A doctor or emergency response personnel will administer a fast acting shot or liquid medicine to quickly relax the patient.

Drugs and medication

Symptoms of psychosis can be controlled with medications called antipsychotics. These medicines reduce hallucinations and delusions and help people think more clearly. The type of medicine that is prescribed will depend on the symptoms.

In many cases, people only need to take antipsychotics for a short time to get their symptoms under control. People with schizophrenia may have to stay on medications for life.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy means meeting regularly to talk with a mental health counselor with the goal of changing thinking and behaviors. This approach has been shown to be effective in helping people make permanent changes and more effectively manage their illness. It is often most helpful for psychotic symptoms that don't completely resolve with medications.

Outlook

Psychosis does not have many medical complications. However, if left untreated, it can be challenging for people experiencing psychosis to take good care of themselves. That could cause other illnesses to go untreated.

Most people who experience psychosis will recover with proper treatment. Even in severe cases, medication and therapy can help.

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Psychosis is characterized by an impaired relationship with reality. And it is a symptom of serious mental disorders. People who are psychotic may have either hallucinations or delusions. Hallucinations are sensory experiences that occur within the absence of an actual stimulus.

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Not sure but could happen? Just an idea.

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Sleepwalking & Sleep Terror (Non-REM Sleep Arousal) Disorder Symptoms

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Non rapid eye movement (REM) sleep arousal disorder describes episodes of incomplete awakening from sleep and can involve either sleepwalking or night terrors. Sleepwalking: rising from bed during sleep and walking about, usually occurring during the first third of the major sleep episode.

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To some extent. Not all are nightmares

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Nightmare disorder symptoms include repeated awakenings from the major sleep period or naps with detailed recall of extended and extremely frightening dreams, usually involving threats to survival, security, or self-esteem. The awakenings generally occur during the second half of the sleep period.

On awakening from the frightening dreams, the person rapidly becomes oriented and alert (in contrast to the confusion and disorientation seen in sleep terror disorder and some forms of epilepsy).

The dream experience, or the sleep disturbance resulting from the awakening, causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The nightmares do not occur exclusively during the course of another mental disorder (e.g., a delirium, posttraumatic stress disorder) or any coexisting (sleep or non-sleep) mental or medical disorder cannot adequately explain the predominant complaint of dysphoric dreams. These dreams are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication).

A clinician will add specifiers to the diagnosis according to its duration and severity.

Acute: Duration of period of nightmares is 1 month or less.

Subacute: Duration of period of nightmares is greater than 1 month but less than 6 months.

Persistent: Duration of period of nightmares is 6 months or greater.

Severity is rated by the frequency with which the nightmares occur:

Mild: Less than one episode per week on average.

Moderate: One or more episodes per week but less than nightly.

Severe: Episodes nightly.

DSM-5 diagnostic code 307.47.

Nightmare Disorder Symptoms

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Nightmare disorder symptoms include repeated awakenings from the major sleep period or naps with detailed recall of extended and extremely frightening dreams, usually involving threats to survival, security, or self-esteem. The awakenings generally occur during the second half of the sleep period.

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May apply to some extent

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The person has persistent or recurrent experiences (episodes) of feeling detached from one's surroundings, mental processes, or body (e.g., feeling like one is in a dream, or as if one is looking at themselves as an outside observer).

In the case of depersonalization, the individual may feel detached from his or her entire being (e.g., "I am no one," "I have no self"). He or she may also feel subjectively detached from aspects of the self, including feelings (e.g., hypoemotionality: "I know I have feelings but I don't feel them"), thoughts (e.g., "My thoughts don't feel like my own," "head filled with cotton"), whole body or body parts, or sensations (e.g., touch, proprioception, hunger, thirst, libido). There may also be a diminished sense of agency (e.g., feeling robotic, like an automaton; lacking control of one's speech or movements).

Episodes of derealization are characterized by a feeling of unreality or detachment from, or unfamiliarity with, the world, be it individuals, inanimate objects, or all surroundings. The individual may feel as if he or she were in a fog, dream, or bubble, or as if there were a veil or a glass wall between the individual and world around. Surroundings may be experienced as artificial, colorless, or lifeless. Derealization is commonly accompanied by subjective visual distortions, such as blurriness, heightened acuity, widened or narrowed visual field, two-dimensionality or flatness, exaggerated three-dimensionality, or altered distance or size of objects, termed macropsia or micropsia.

During the depersonalization or derealization experience, the person remains somewhat in touch with their present reality.

The depersonalization causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The depersonalization experience does not occur exclusively during the course of another mental disorder, such as schizophrenia, panic disorder, acute stress disorder, or another dissociative disorder, and is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a general medical condition (e.g., temporal lobe epilepsy).
Diagnostic code 300.6, DSM-5.
Depersonalization / Derealization Disorder Symptoms

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The person has persistent or recurrent experiences (episodes) of feeling detached from one's surroundings, mental processes, or body (e.g., feeling like one is in a dream, or as if one is looking at themselves as an outside observer).

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Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a diagnosis characterized by having two or more distinct people, each with his or her own identity and personality, that alternately take control over a person. More commonly known by its older name, multiple personality disorder. It is thought that this disorder may be caused by trauma from a person's childhood, such as ongoing physical abuse, sexual assault, and/or emotional abuse.

The person also experiences severe memory loss that cannot be explained by ordinary forgetfulness.

Thought to be a coping mechanism, dissociation helps a person leave the traumatic situation. While all people do that when they daydream, this disorder takes it to another level entirely where the dissociations become real and the person begins to mold themselves into another identity entirely.

Symptoms of Dissociative Identity Disorder

Dissociative identity disorder is characterized by the following symptoms, which can be diagnosed by a mental health professional:

Disruption of a person's identity. This disruption can be seen by the presence of two or more distinct personality states. In some cultures, these different personality states may be called "possession" or label the person as being "possessed." The disruption involves marked discontinuity in sense of self and sense of agency, accompanied by related alterations in affect, behavior, consciousness, memory, perception, cognition, and/or sensory-motor functioning.

Recurring gaps in the recall of everyday events, important personal information, and/or traumatic events are are inconsistent with ordinary forgetting

These symptoms cause significant distress and/or impairment in the the person's everyday functioning with friends, family, at work or school, or in other important areas of their life.

These symptoms are not a part of a broadly accepted cultural or religious practice. In children, they should not be confused with imaginary play, role playing, or fantasy play.

The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., blackouts or chaotic behavior during alcohol intoxication) or a general medical condition (e.g., complex partial seizures).

Continue reading about Dissociative Identity Disorder...

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Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a diagnosis characterized by having two or more distinct people, each with his or her own identity and personality, that alternately take control over a person. More commonly known by its older name, multiple personality disorder.

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The kinds of symptoms that are utilized to make a diagnosis of schizophrenia differ between affected people and may change from one year to the next within the same person as the disease progresses. Different subtypes of schizophrenia are defined according to the most significant and predominant characteristics present in each person at each point in time. The result is that one person may be diagnosed with different subtypes over the course of his illness.

Schizophrenia: Paranoid Subtype

The defining feature of the paranoid subtype (also known as paranoid schizophrenia) is the presence of auditory hallucinations or prominent delusional thoughts about persecution or conspiracy. However, people with this subtype may be more functional in their ability to work and engage in relationships than people with other subtypes of schizophrenia. The reasons are not entirely clear, but may partly reflect that people suffering from this subtype often do not exhibit symptoms until later in life and have achieved a higher level of functioning before the onset of their illness. People with the paranoid subtype may appear to lead fairly normal lives by successful management of their disorder.

Paranoid schizophrenia is the most common subtype.

People diagnosed with the paranoid subtype may not appear odd or unusual and may not readily discuss the symptoms of their illness. Typically, the hallucinations and delusions revolve around some characteristic theme, and this theme often remains fairly consistent over time. A person's temperaments and general behaviors often are related to the content of the disturbance of thought. For example, people who believe that they are being persecuted unjustly may be easily angered and become hostile. Often, paranoid schizophrenics will come to the attention of mental health professionals only when there has been some major stress in their life that has caused an increase in their symptoms. At that point, sufferers may recognize the need for outside help or act in a fashion to bring attention to themselves.

Since there may be no observable features, the evaluation requires sufferers to be somewhat open to discussing their thoughts. If there is a significant degree of suspiciousness or paranoia present, people may be very reluctant to discuss these issues with a stranger.

There is a broad spectrum to the nature and severity of symptoms that may be present at any one time. When symptoms are in a phase of exacerbation or worsening, there may be some disorganization of the thought processes. At this time, people may have more trouble than usual remembering recent events, speaking coherently or generally behaving in an organized, rational manner. While these features are more characteristic of other subtypes, they can be present to differing degrees in people with the paranoid subtype, depending upon the current state of their illness. Supportive friends or family members often may be needed at such times to help the symptomatic person get professional help.

Schizophrenia: Disorganized Subtype

As the name implies, this subtype's predominant feature is disorganization of the thought processes. As a rule, hallucinations and delusions are less pronounced, although there may be some evidence of these symptoms. These people may have significant impairments in their ability to maintain the activities of daily living. Even the more routine tasks, such as dressing, bathing or brushing teeth, can be significantly impaired or lost.

Often, there is impairment in the emotional processes of the individual. For example, these people may appear emotionally unstable, or their emotions may not seem appropriate to the context of the situation. They may fail to show ordinary emotional responses in situations that evoke such responses in healthy people. Mental health professionals refer to this particular symptom as blunted or flat affect. Additionally, these people may have an inappropriately jocular or giddy appearance, as in the case of a patient who chuckles inappropriately through a funeral service or other solemn occasion.

People diagnosed with this subtype also may have significant impairment in their ability to communicate effectively. At times, their speech can become virtually incomprehensible, due to disorganized thinking. In such cases, speech is characterized by problems with the utilization and ordering of words in conversational sentences, rather than with difficulties of enunciation or articulation. In the past, the term hebephrenic has been used to describe this subtype.

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The kinds of symptoms that are utilized to make a diagnosis of schizophrenia differ between affected people and may change from one year to the next within the same person as the disease progresses. Different subtypes of schizophrenia are defined according to the most significant and predominant characteristics present in each person at each point in time.

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Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that is characterized by hallucinations (auditory, visual, olfactory, or tactile) and delusions. It is usually treated with a combination of antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy.
What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness characterized by a person experiencing a combination of delusions and hallucinations. Because these delusions and hallucinations feel as real as the world around them, a person with untreated schizophrenia can sometimes have trouble distinguishing actual reality from this altered reality that their brain is telling them.

In spite of advances in the understanding of its causes, course, and treatment, schizophrenia continues to be a condition that has been challenging to researchers, clinicians, and those who suffer from it. It is easier for the average person to cope with the idea of cancer than it is to understand the odd behavior, hallucinations, or strange ideas of the person with this condition. People with schizophrenia suffer from some of the greatest prejudice, stigma, and discrimination associated with any mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (2018).

As with most mental disorders, the causes of schizophrenia are still pretty poorly understood. Friends and family commonly are shocked, afraid or angry when they learn of the diagnosis. People often imagine a person with psychosis as being more violent or out-of-control than a person who has another kind of serious mental illness. But these kinds of prejudices and misconceptions can usually be readily corrected.

This disorder is better understood as a mental illness that requires ongoing - most often lifetime - treatment. Demystification of the illness, along with recent insights from neuroscience and neuropsychology, gives new hope for finding more effective treatments for an illness that previously carried a grave prognosis.

Schizophrenia is characterized by a broad range of unusual behaviors that cause profound disruption in the lives of people suffering from the condition, as well as in the lives of the people around them. This condition can strike anyone without regard to gender, race, social class, or culture and is typically first diagnosed in a person's 20s.

According to Simeone et al. (2015) the 12-month prevalence rate of schizophrenia is 0.33 percent (with a range of between 0.26 - 0.51 percent). The median estimate of lifetime prevalence is 0.48 percent (with a range of between 0.34 - 0.85 percent). The American Psychiatric Association (2013) places the lifetime prevalence rate of schizophrenia to "be approximately 0.3% - 0.7%".
Learn more: Frequently Asked Questions about Schizophrenia
Symptoms of Schizophrenia

The symptoms of this condition are fairly easy to recognize, because they stand out so distinctly from a person's usual behavior. In order for a diagnosis to be made, the person must suffer from two more of the following for at least one month:

Delusions

Hallucinations

Incoherent speech or speech that quickly switches topics with little continuity

Problems in their behavior, such as inexplicable agitation or silliness, to catatonic behavior

Negative symptoms characterized by a lack of any emotional expression and/or a lack of purposeful activity (e.g., just sitting with no interest in going to work, school, or engaging in any activities)

Delusions are fixed beliefs that don't change, even when the person is given evidence their beliefs are not based in reality. People can have a variety of delusions, ranging from persecutory ("people are going to harm me") and referential ("people are sending me secret signals") to grandiose ("I am wealthy and famous and known around the world"), erotomanic ("I know that person is in love with me"), nihilistic ("the end of the world is coming!"), and somatic ("my liver can transform any poison into a harmless substance"). Delusions may also be considered bizarre if they have no connection to reality in the same kind of culture the person was raised in.

Hallucinations, according to the American Psychiatric Association (2013), are experiencing something in one's perception, but without the necessary external stimuli being available - like seeing something that isn't really there. These unreal perceptions can occur in any of a person's senses, but most often occur as auditory hallucinations.
Learn more: Review the complete symptoms of schizophrenia and the different types of schizophrenia
Causes & Diagnosis

Schizophrenia has been a condition that has puzzled researchers for decades in trying to unravel its mysteries. It is one of the most-studied types of mental illness, both to try and better understand its causes and to create more effective treatments.

Schizophrenia tends to run in families, pointing to potential genetic, biological, and developmental risk factors. Like most types of mental illness, the causes of this condition are likely complex and multi-faceted, and today at least, not well understood. The neurotransmitters most implicated by research include dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, and GABA acetylcholine (Janicak et al., 2014).

Genetic copy number variants also appear to be important in our understanding of the causes of this condition. Certain types of chromosomal abnormalities involving deletions or duplications appear to create a greater risk for a person developing this condition. But while we have many clues about the possible causes of this diagnosis, researchers are still uncertain about its exact cause.
Learn more: Causes of schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is most often formally diagnosed by a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychological, or clinical social worker. The diagnosis is usually made in a person's early adulthood, when the person experiences their first psychotic episode that most often includes bizarre delusions or hallucinations.

Schizophrenia Treatment

There are many successful treatments available for schizophrenia, focusing on a set of antipsychotic medications and finding the right ones with the right balance. Because each person reacts to different psychiatric medications in a different way, it's usually important for someone with this condition to work closely with a psychiatrist with experience in treating schizophrenia.

In addition to medications, many people with schizophrenia also benefit from some form of psychotherapy or social support treatment. There are a variety of other treatments for schizophrenia that may be helpful. Finding and following daily routines can be helpful for an individual grappling with this disorder, and getting support from friends and family can be an important component in recovery.

While schizophrenia is treatable, relapses can and do occur. A person with schizophrenia is generally maintained on treatment throughout most of their adult life.
Learn more: Schizophrenia Treatment
Living With & Managing Schizophrenia

There is much that goes into living with schizophrenia, as it can be a difficult condition to manage. Professionals usually seek to help keep individuals out of the hospital and prevent a future psychotic episode or relapse. Some people turn to substance abuse in order to help quell the symptoms of this disorder.

Acknowledging the condition for what it is, finding appropriate treatment, and then sticking to that treatment plan can be helpful. But a person with this diagnosis may have difficulty understanding that they are affected and may need the help and support of family members to get into an effective treatment program. They may also need such support long-term to stay on treatment and find additional social and occupational resources to help their recovery be successful. Maintaining daily routines is one important key to many people's success with this condition over the long term.
Learn more: Living with Schizophrenia
Helping Someone with Schizophrenia

A person with schizophrenia has unique challenges throughout their life. They can often benefit from the support and encouragement of friends and family, who understand that the symptoms of the disorder don't diminish the unique personality and strengths of the individual. People with schizophrenia need such support just as much as someone dealing with diabetes or cancer. But far too often, family members and friends are afraid of people with this condition, because the symptoms can be difficult to comprehend and make sense of. And when a person with schizophrenia isn't undergoing treatment (or treatment isn't sufficient), the symptoms can worsen.

Knowledge and education can go a long ways in helping people understand that schizophrenia, while unique, also shares a lot in common with other mental disorders. Most importantly, the person suffering from it needs our support and empathy in not only getting treatment initially, but throughout their lifetime.
Learn more: Helping Someone With Schizophrenia
Getting Help

There are effective treatments available, but the first step in seeking help is often the hardest. Many times a person with schizophrenia doesn't feel like anything is wrong - they don't recognize their own behaviors or thoughts as being bizarre or seemingly out of the ordinary. Often a family member will work to help find treatment for the person who is suffering. This can be a difficult and process fraught with challenges, however, since a person needs to consent to treatment (unless they are an imminent threat of harm to themselves or others).

Many people find it helpful to start with a mental health specialist to begin the process. Such professionals are trained to recognize the symptoms of schizophrenia and make an accurate diagnosis, ruling out other possible diagnoses or problems that may be causing the symptoms. You can check out our online support group, or review other online resources available for this disorder.
Take action: Find a local treatment provider More Resources & Stories: Schizophrenia on OC87 Recovery Diaries and Schizophrenia on The Mighty

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

Beck, A.T., Rector, N.A., Stolar, N. & Grant, P. (2011). Schizophrenia: Cognitive Theory, Research, and Therapy. New York: Guilford Press.

Janicak, P.G., Marder, S.R., Tandon, R., Goldman, M. (2014). Schizophrenia Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment. New York: Springer.

Mueser, K.T. & Gingerich, S. (2006). The Complete Family Guide to Schizophrenia: Helping Your Loved One Get the Most Out of Life. New York: Guilford Press.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2019). Schizophrenia. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia/index.shtml on February 25, 2019.

Olukayode, A. et al. (2014). The 4th Schizophrenia International Research Society Conference, 14-18 April 2014, Florence, Italy: A summary of topics and trends. Schizophrenia Research, 159, e1-22. doi: 10.1016/j.schres.2014.08.032

Simeone, J.C., Ward, A.J., Rotella, P., Collins, J. Windisch, R. (2015). An evaluation of variation in published estimates of schizophrenia prevalence from 1990-2013: A systematic literature review. BMC Psychiatry, 15.

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Schizophrenia Guide: Symptoms, Treatment & More | PsychCentral

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Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that is characterized by hallucinations (auditory, visual, olfactory, or tactile) and delusions. It is usually treated with a combination of antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy. Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness characterized by a person experiencing a combination of delusions and hallucinations.

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People with panic disorder have feelings of terror that strike suddenly and repeatedly, most often with no warning. The frequency and severity of panic symptoms can vary widely. A person with this condition usually can't predict when an attack will occur, and so many develop intense anxiety between episodes, worrying when and where the next one will strike. Between panic attacks there is a persistent, lingering worry that another one could come at any minute.

Panic disorder symptoms are primarily centered around panic attacks. Panic attacks often consist of a pounding heart, sweatiness, a feeling of weakness, faintness, or dizziness. The hands may tingle or feel numb, the person may feel flushed or chilled. There can be chest pain or smothering sensations, a sense of unreality, a fear of impending doom, or loss of control. The person may genuinely believe they are having a heart attack or stroke, losing their mind, or on the verge of death.

Panic attacks can occur any time, even during non-dream sleep. In the U.S., this type of panic attack has been estimated to occur at least one time in roughly one-quarter to one-third of individuals with panic disorder, of whom the majority also have daytime panic attacks. While most attacks average a couple of minutes, occasionally they can go on for up to 10 minutes. In rare cases, they may last an hour or more.

Panic disorder strikes between 3 and 6 million Americans, and is twice as common in women as in men. It can appear at any age - in children or in the elderly - but most often it begins in young adults. Not everyone who experiences panic attacks will develop panic disorder. For example, many people have a single panic attack and never experience another. For those who do have panic disorder, though, it's important to seek treatment. Untreated, the disorder can become debilitating.

In the U.S. and Europe, approximately one-half of individuals with panic disorder have anticipated panic attacks as well as unexpected panic attacks. Thus, as a recent change made to the criteria in the DSM-5, the presence of expected panic attacks no longer prevents the diagnosis of panic disorder. This change acknowledges that oftentimes a panic attack arises out of an already-anxious state (e.g., the person is worried about having a panic attack in a store and then actually has one).

Clinicians now make the decision whether a person's expected panic attacks will count towards their client's panic disorder diagnosis. They will usually classify expected panic attacks under panic disorder as long as the person's concerns accompanying their panic attacks are centered around the fear of the panic sensations themselves, their consequences (e.g., "I could have died or gone crazy"), and of having them again in the future (e.g., the person makes special efforts to avoid returning to the place where that attack occurred).

Panic disorder is often accompanied by other conditions such as depression or alcohol/drug use to cope with or prevent symptoms. It may spawn phobias, which can develop in places or situations where panic attacks have occurred. For example, if a panic attack strikes while you're riding an elevator, you may develop a fear of elevators and perhaps start avoiding them.

Some people's lives become greatly restricted - they avoid normal, everyday activities such as grocery shopping, driving, or in some cases even leaving the house. On the other hand, they may be able to confront a feared situation only if accompanied by a spouse or another trusted person. Basically, they avoid any situation they fear would make them feel helpless if a panic attack occurs.

When people's lives become so restricted by the disorder, as happens in about one-third of all people with panic disorder, the condition is called agoraphobia. A tendency toward panic disorder and agoraphobia runs in families. Nevertheless, early treatment of panic disorder can often stop the progression to agoraphobia.

Specific Symptoms of Panic Disorder

A person with panic disorder experiences recurrent either expected or unexpected panic attacks and at least one of the attacks has been followed by one month (or more) of one or more of the following:

Persistent concern about about the implications of the attack, such as its consequences (e.g., losing control, having a heart attack, "going crazy") or fears of having additional attacks

A significant change in behavior related to the attacks (e.g., avoid exercise or unfamiliar situations)

The panic attacks may not be due to the direct physiological effects of use or abuse of a substance (alcohol, drugs, medications) or a general medical condition (e.g., hyperthyroidism).

Though panic attacks can occur in other mental disorders (most often anxiety-related disorders), the panic attacks in panic disorder itself cannot occur exclusive to symptoms in another disorder. In other words, attacks in panic disorder cannot be better accounted for by another mental disorder, such as social phobia (e.g., occurring on exposure to feared social situations), specific phobia (e.g., on exposure to a specific phobic situation), obsessive-compulsive disorder (e.g., on exposure to dirt in someone with an obsession about contamination), posttraumatic stress disorder (e.g., in response to stimuli associated with a severe stressor), or separation anxiety disorder (e.g., in response to being away from home or close relatives).

Panic disorder is associated with high levels of social, occupational, and physical disability; considerable economic costs; and the highest number of medical visits among the anxiety disorders, although the effects are strongest with the presence of agoraphobia. Though agoraphobia may also be present, it isn't required in order to diagnose panic disorder.
This criteria has been updated for the current DSM-5 (2013); diagnostic code: 300.01.

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People with panic disorder have feelings of terror that strike suddenly and repeatedly, most often with no warning. The frequency and severity of panic symptoms can vary widely. A person with this condition usually can't predict when an attack will occur, and so many develop intense anxiety between episodes, worrying when and where the next one will strike.

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Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is more than the normal anxiety people experience day to day. It's chronic and exaggerated worry and tension, even though nothing seems to provoke it. Having this disorder means always anticipating disaster, often worrying excessively about health, money, family, or work. Sometimes, though, the source of the worry is hard to pinpoint.

Simply the thought of getting through the day provokes anxiety.

People with GAD can't seem to shake their concerns, even though they usually realize that their anxiety is more intense than the situation warrants - that it's irrational. People with GAD also seem unable to relax. They often have trouble falling or staying asleep. Their worries are accompanied by physical symptoms, especially trembling, twitching, muscle tension, headaches, irritability, sweating, or hot flashes. They may feel lightheaded or out of breath. They may feel nauseated or have to go to the bathroom frequently. Or they might feel as though they have a lump in the throat.

Many individuals with GAD startle more easily than other people. They tend to feel tired, have trouble concentrating, and sometimes suffer depression, too.

Usually the impairment associated with GAD is mild and people with the disorder don't feel too restricted in social settings or on the job. Unlike many other anxiety disorders, people with GAD don't characteristically avoid certain situations as a result of their disorder. However, if severe, GAD can be very debilitating, making it difficult to carry out even the most ordinary daily activities.

GAD comes on gradually and most often hits people in childhood or adolescence, but can begin in adulthood, too. It's more common in women than in men and often occurs in relatives of affected persons. It's diagnosed when someone spends at least 6 months worried excessively about a number of everyday problems.

Specific Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation), occurring more days than not for at least 6 months, about a number of events or activities (such as work or school performance).

The person finds it difficult to control the worry.

The anxiety and worry are associated with three (or more) of the following six symptoms (with at least some symptoms present for more days than not for the past 6 months; children do not need to meet as many criteria-only 1 is needed).

Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge

Being easily fatigued

Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

Irritability

Muscle tension

Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless unsatisfying sleep)

Additionally, the anxiety or worry is not specifically about having a panic attack (though panic attacks can occur within a person with GAD), being embarrassed in public (as in social phobia), being contaminated (as in obsessive-compulsive disorder), being away from home or close relatives (as in separation anxiety disorder), gaining weight (as in anorexia nervosa), having multiple physical complaints (as in somatization disorder), or having a serious illness (as in hypochondriasis), and the anxiety and worry do not occur exclusively during posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The anxiety, worry, or physical symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a general medical condition (e.g., hyperthyroidism) and does not occur exclusively during a mood disorder, a psychotic disorder, or a pervasive developmental disorder.
This criteria has been updated for the current DSM-5 (2013); diagnostic code 300.02.

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Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is more than the normal anxiety people experience day to day. It's chronic and exaggerated worry and tension, even though nothing seems to provoke it. Having this disorder means always anticipating disaster, often worrying excessively about health, money, family, or work.

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors for depression can include a family history of mood disorders, major life changes, trauma, other physical diseases (such as cancer), and even certain medications. But today, the causes of depression still remain largely unknown.

Depression can appear differently in children than in adults. In children, it can look more like anxiety or anxious behavior.

What's Depression Feel Like?
"[If there was] certainty that an acute episode [of depression] will last only a week, a month, even a year, it would change everything. It would still be a ghastly ordeal, but the worst thing about it - the incessant yearning for death, the compulsion toward suicide - would drop away. But no, a limited depression, a depression with hope, is a contradiction. ... [T]he conviction that it will never end except in death - that is the definition of a severe depression."

Symptoms of Depression

Clinical depression is different from normal sadness - like when you lose a loved one, experience a relationship breakup, or get laid off from work - as it usually consumes a person in their day-to-day living. It doesn't stop after just a day or two - it will continue for weeks on end, interfering with the person's work or school, their relationships with others, and their ability to just enjoy life and have fun. Some people feel as if a huge hole of emptiness has opened inside when experiencing the hopelessness associated with this condition. In any given year, 7 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with this condition; women are 2 to 3 times more likely to be diagnosed than men (American Psychiatric Association).

The symptoms of depression include the majority of the following signs, experienced nearly every day over the course of two or more weeks:

a persistent feeling of loneliness or sadness

lack of energy

feelings of hopelessness

difficulties with sleeping (too much or too little)

difficulties with eating (too much or too little)

difficulties with concentration or attention

total loss of interest in enjoyable activities or socializing

feelings of guilt and worthlessness

and/or thoughts of death or suicide.

Most people who are feeling depressed don't experience every symptom, and the presentation of symptoms varies in degree and intensity from person to person.
Learn more: Review the complete symptoms of depression Learn more: What are the different types of depression?
Causes & Diagnosis

Depression doesn't discriminate who it affects by age, gender, race, career, relationship status, or whether a person is rich or poor. It can affect anyone at any point in their life, including children and adolescents (although in teens and children, it can sometimes be seen more as irritability than a sad mood).

Like most mental disorders, researchers still don't know what exactly causes this condition. But a combination of factors is likely to blame, including: genetics, neurobiological makeup, gut bacteria, family history, personality and psychological factors, environment, and social factors in growing up.
Learn more: What are the causes of depression?
A mental health specialist is the type of professional best equipped to make a reliable diagnosis for this condition. These kinds of professionals include psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers. While a general practitioner or family doctor may be able to make an initial diagnosis, further followup and treatment should be done by a specialist for the best treatment results.

Depression Treatment

Can depression actually be successfully treated? The short answer is yes. According to the National Institute of Mental Health and countless research studies over the past six decades, clinical depression is readily treated with short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy and modern antidepressant medications. For most people, a combination of the two works best and is usually what is recommended. Psychotherapy approaches scientifically proven to work with depression include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy (Gelenberg et al., 2010). Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for all types of depression and has very few side effects (and is a covered treatment by all insurers).

For mild depression, many people start with self-help strategies and emotional support. There are some common herbal treatments that research has also shown to be effective, including St. John's wort and kava (Sarris, 2007). The positive effects of exercise and diet should not be under-estimated in helping mild to moderate depression symptoms as well. Increased, regular exercise is recommended as a component of treatment for all severity levels of depression.

When psychotherapy and antidepressants don't work, clinicians may turn to other treatment options. Usually the first is to try and adjunct medication to the existing antidepressant medication. In more serious or treatment-resistant cases, additional treatment options may be tried (like ECT or rTMS). Ketamine infusion treatments also appear to be effective, but are generally not covered by insurance and the long-term risks are unknown.

No matter how hopeless things may feel today, people can get better with treatment - and most do. The key to successful treatment is usually dependent upon the person recognizing there's a problem, seeking out treatment for it, and then following the treatment plan agreed to. This can be far more challenging for someone who's depressed than it sounds, and patience is a core necessity when starting treatment.

You can learn more about the benefits of psychotherapy, medications, and whether you should consider psychotherapy, medication or both in our in-depth depression treatment guide.
Continue reading: Treatment of depression
Living With & Managing Depression

When faced with the emptiness and loneliness of this condition, many people living with it find it a daily struggle just to wake up in the morning and get out of bed. Everyday tasks most of us take for granted - like showering, eating, or going to work or school - seem insurmountable obstacles to a person living with depression.

The key to living with depression is ensuring you're receiving adequate treatment for it (usually most people benefit from both psychotherapy and medication), and that you are an active participant in your treatment plan on a daily basis. This requires a lot of effort and hard work for most people, but it can be done. Establishing new, healthier routines are important in many people's management of this condition. Getting regular emotional support - for instance, through an online support group - can also be extremely beneficial.
Continue reading: Living with Depression
Helping Someone with Depression

When we see a friend or family member in distress, most of us want to reach out and offer a hand. But when it comes to this kind of mental illness, all too often we remain silent, fearful of the stigma associated with the diagnosis. There is nothing to be ashamed of, and no reason not to offer to help out someone who is going through the challenges of living with this disorder.

You can learn a lot on ways to be helpful by reviewing the following articles, specifically written with friends and family members in mind:

Getting Help

Recovery from a depressive episode takes time as well as a desire and willingness for change. You can start by talking to someone - anyone - about your feelings, and finding some immediate emotional support through the sharing. Many people start their journey of recovery off by going to see their family physician for an initial diagnosis. Such a professional can also help connect you with referrals or encouragement to continue your treatment with a mental health specialist.

The first step is yours to take. Be brave and know that in taking it, you're starting down the road to recovery from this terrible disorder.

Some people also like to start their recovery by reading some of our recommended books on depression, or by joining our online support group for this condition. You can also review our complete depression library for additional information and resources.
Take action: Find a local treatment provider More Resources & Stories: Depression on OC87 Recovery Diaries
Watch Our Recommended Video on Depression

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

Beck, A.T., Rush, A.J., Shaw, B.F. & Emery, G. (1987). Cognitive Therapy of Depression. New York: Guilford.

Burns, D.D. (1999). The Feeling Good Handbook. New York: Plume.

Gelenberg, A.J. et al. (2010). Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Major Depressive Disorder. American Psychiatric Association.

Gotlib, I.H. & Hammen, C.L. (2015). Handbook of Depression: Third Edition. New York: Guilford.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2019). Depression. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/index.shtml on March 4, 2019.

Muneer, A. (2018). Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder: Differentiating Features and Contemporary Treatment Approaches. In Understanding depression. New York: Springer.

Sarris, J. (2007). Herbal medicines in the treatment of psychiatric disorders: a systematic review. Phytotherapy Research. J Herbal Pharmacotherapy, 2, 49-55.

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Depression: Symptoms, Types & Treatments | Psych Central

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors for depression can include a family history of mood disorders, major life changes, trauma, other physical diseases (such as cancer), and even certain medications. But today, the causes of depression still remain largely unknown. Depression can appear differently in children than in adults.

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What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, also known in some parts of the world by its older name, "manic depression," is a mental disorder that is characterized by serious and significant mood swings. A person with this condition experiences alternating "highs" (what clinicians call " mania") and "lows" (also known as depression).

Both the manic and depressive periods can be brief, from just a few hours to a few days. Or the cycles can be much longer, lasting up to several weeks or even months. The periods of mania and depression vary from person to person - many people may only experience very brief periods of these intense moods, and may not even be aware that they have the disorder.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, there four major categories of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymic disorder, and bipolar disorder due to another medical or substance abuse disorder (APA, 2013). Anyone can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, but bipolar disorder in children is called disruptive mood dysregulation disorder and carries a different set of symptoms.

All types of bipolar disorder generally respond well to treatment, which usually includes medication management for many years and for some, psychotherapy. Like many mental disorders, professionals generally don't talk about a person being "cured" of this condition, so much as learning to manage it well. Medication and psychotherapy help a person do that.
Learn more: Frequently Asked Questions & Fact Sheet
Take the bipolar quiz now.

Symptoms of Bipolar

For bipolar disorder to be diagnosed, a person needs to have experienced at least one manic (or in bipolar II, hypomanic) episode, and one depressive episode during their lifetime.

A manic episode (bipolar I disorder) is characterized by extreme happiness, extreme irritability, hyperactivity, little need for sleep and/or racing thoughts, which may lead to rapid speech. People in a manic episode feel like they can do anything, make plans to try and do all those things, and believe that nothing can stop them. For bipolar I to be diagnosed, this episode must have last at least a week and represents a noticeable change from a person's usual behavior.

A hypomanic episode (bipolar II disorder) is characterized by the same symptoms as a manic episode, except the symptoms need to only have been present for at least four (4) days.

A depressive episode is characterized by extreme sadness, a lack of energy or interest in things, an inability to enjoy normally pleasurable activities and feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. On average, someone with this condition may have up to three years of normal mood between episodes of mania or depression.

When left untreated, the severity of episodes can vary. People with this condition can often predict when a new cycle is starting, as the severity of their symptoms increase.
Learn more: Review the complete symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Causes & Diagnosis

As with most mental disorders, researchers are still not certain what causes this condition. There is no single risk factor, gene, or other predisposition that puts a person at increased risk for bipolar disorder. It is likely a combination of factors increase a person's risk. According to research, these factors may include a different brain structure and way of functioning, a set of genetic factors, and family history (as this disorder tends to run in families).
Learn more: What are the Causes of Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, like most mental disorders, is best diagnosed by a trained mental health professional - such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker. While a family physician or general practitioner may offer a preliminary diagnosis, only a mental health specialist offers the experience and skills necessary to diagnose this condition reliably.
Learn more: How is Bipolar Diagnosed?
Bipolar Disorder Treatment

According to researchers at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the exact cause of bipolar disorder is not yet known - but it can still be effectively treated. Research is ongoing about finding the most effective treatments.

Like most mental disorders, today this condition is treated with psychotherapy combined with psychiatric medications (most people benefit more quickly from combined treatment of the two). Treatment for this disorder is generally effective and helps most people keep a balanced mood throughout their day, most days of the month. It may take anywhere from one to two months before a person starts feeling the full, beneficial impact of their treatment.

Self-help strategies for this condition vary in their effectiveness, depending upon the person and the severity of the disorder. Some people find it beneficial to join a support group, read books explaining effective self-help strategies, or keeping a journal (either paper or through a mood or journaling app).

One of the biggest challenges of treatment of bipolar disorder is finding and maintaining a treatment routine that works best for a person over the long-term. Most people with this condition benefit from medications for much of their life, but it can be a challenge to stick with the medications when all seems well years down the road. Commonly prescribed medications for this disorder include a mood stabilizer (like lithium), while some treatments may also involve the use of additional medications (like an atypical antipsychotic or, in some cases, an antidepressant).
Learn more: Treatment of bipolar disorder
Living With & Managing Bipolar

There are many challenges to living with this condition on a daily basis. What are some of the long-term, successful strategies to staying well, sticking with treatment, and maintaining a balanced mood?

One important component of living with this condition is learning to build routines and sticking with them, no matter what. What can often drive a person into a manic or depressive episode is going off of their routine, or deciding one day that the mood stabilizer that helps them regulation their moods is no longer needed.

These articles were written to help a person learn to live more successfully with this condition:

Getting Help

There are many ways to get started in your journey of recovery from bipolar. Many people start by seeing their physician or family doctor to see if they really might suffer from this disorder. While that's a good start, you're encouraged to also consult a mental health specialist right away too. Specialists - like psychologists and psychiatrists - can more reliably diagnose a mental disorder than a family doctor can.

Some people may feel more comfortable reading more about the condition first. While we have a great library of resources here, we also have a set of recommended bipolar books and a peer-led, online support group just for this condition.
Take action: Find a local treatment provider More Resources & Stories: Bipolar Disorder on OC87 Recovery Diaries and Bipolar Disorder on The Mighty
Watch a short video about bipolar disorder
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, Fifth edition. Arlington, VA.

Caponigro, J.M. & Lee, E.H. (2012). Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for the Newly Diagnosed. New Harbinger.

Fink, C. & Kraynak, J. (2015). Bipolar Disorder For Dummies. For Dummies, New York.

Miklowitz, D.J. & Gitlin, M.J. (2015). Clinician's Guide to Bipolar Disorder. Guilford Press.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2018). Bipolar disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/index.shtml on February 27, 2018.

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Bipolar Disorder - What is it? Can it be treated?

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Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by episodes of extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression) in mood and energy. Bipolar disorder symptoms include mania, hypomania, and depression. It is typically treated with a combination of medication & psychotherapy.