Counseling and Wellness

Facts about bipolar disorder

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  • Bipolar disorder (manic depression) affects approximately 2.3 million American adults, or about 1.2% of the US population age 18 and older in any given year

  • Men and women are equally likely to develop bipolar disorder

  • It is found in all ages, ethnic groups and social classes

  • Women with bipolar disorder tend to have more depressive episodes than men

  • Women are more likely to be misdiagnosed with depression

  • Men are more likely to be misdiagnosed with schizophrenia

  • Up to 90% of bipolar disorders start before the age of 20

  • People with Bipolar I may never experience depression

  • About 40% of adults with dysthymic disorder also meet criteria for major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder in a given year

  • A recent University of Michigan study (using PET scan technology) found that people with bipolar have 30% more monoamine releasing cells, which send the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine into the brain

  • 58% of patients with bipolar disorder experience at least one psychotic symptom

  • If cycling is not readily apparent, it can take 3-10 years to receive an accurate diagnosis

Resources that can help
  • UAB Student Affairs
  • Address: Hill University Center, Birmingham, AL 35233
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