How do you tell if a drug addict is bipolar?

Answer 1

Symptoms of Bipolar DisorderBipolar disorder is a cyclic illness where people periodically exhibit elevated (Manic) and depressive episodes. Most people will experience a number of episodes, averaging 0.4 to 0.7 a year with each lasting 3-6 months. Late adolescence and early adulthood are peak years for the onset of the illness. ClassificationBipolar disorder is commonly categorized as either Bipolar Type I, where an individual experiences full-blown mania, or Bipolar Type II, in which the hypomanic "highs" do not go to the extremes of mania. The latter is much more difficult to diagnose, since the hypomanic episodes may simply appear as a period of successful high productivity and is reported less frequently than a distressing depression. Psychosis can occur, particularly in manic periods. There are also 'rapid cycling' subtypes. Because there is so much variation in the severity and nature of mood-related problems, the concept of a bipolar spectrum is often employed, which includes cyclothymia. There is no consensus as to how many 'types' of bipolar disorder exist. Many people with bipolar disorder experience severe anxiety and are very irritable (to the point of rage) when in a manic state, while others are euphoric and grandiose. The depressive phaseSigns and symptoms of the depressive phase of bipolar disorder include: persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt, anger, isolation and/or hopelessness, disturbances in sleep and appetite, fatigue and loss of interest in usually enjoyed activities, problems concentrating, loneliness, self-loathing, apathy or indifference, depersonalization, loss of interest in sexual activity, shyness or social anxiety, irritability, chronic pain (with or without a known cause), lack of motivation, and morbid/suicidal ideation. ManiaMania is generally characterized by a distinct period of an elevated, expansive or irritable mood state. People commonly experience an increase in energy and a decreased need for sleep. A person's speech may be pressured, with thoughts experienced as racing. Attention span is low and a person in a manic state may be easily distracted. People may feel they have been 'chosen', or are 'on a special mission', which are considered grandiose or delusional ideas. At more extreme phases, a person in a manic state can begin to experience psychosis, or a break with reality, where thinking is affected along with mood. In order to be diagnosed with mania according to DSM-IV, a person must experience this state of elevated or irritable mood as well as other symptoms for two or more weeks.1

For proper diagnosis, please see your physician.

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bipolar_disorder

if they act like my mom

Answer 2

Ask him straight out if he is smoking crack. Alternatively ask him to get a blood test say you'll get one with him as well.

Answer 3

When they have mood swings often or are happy 1 day nasty the next. You can ask your docter if you think you may have it or someone else.

Answer 4

Bipolars have extreme and erratic mood swings which may also be observed in drug addicts. -