Accepted Answer

Hi,
Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings from overly "high" and/or irritable to sad, depressed and hopeless. There are usually periods of feeling normal in between, although not always. This disorder effects your energy, mood and behaviors. It does usually have risky behaviors attached such as those you describe, in addition to things such as not sleeping, and not feeling tired, racing thoughts, and difficulty completing projects started. This is one way it can effect your job. On the downward spiral, the depression can be very severe and debilitating such as you describe.

There are several medications available to help you control and manage these symtpoms such as ablify, zyprexa, lamictol, and a new drug saphris.

First schedule an appointment for your general physican checkup to rule out anything physical. If you use any type of drugs even over the counter, such as caffeine pills, these symptoms can mimic Bipolar Disorder, so be sure you have this ruled out as well.

Please do not allow this to go untreated. Bipolar Disorder untreated can cause you to deteriorate in many ways and begin participating in behaviors you would not normally do. Contact a psychiatrist who can work with you and help you develop the right combination of medications to treat your symptoms.

Employers are obligated to allow you to receive medical treatment for problems, so do not worry about that part. Get yourself healthy, and you will feel better and be a better employee. Hope this helps. Gina

Expert:	Gina P
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	8/16/2009

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