The average age that bipolar disorder first starts to show symptoms is around 25 years old, although this can vary dramatically. In some cases, bipolar symptoms start in childhood or may even develop later in life. However, the most frequent age range of the onset of bipolar is between the ages of 14 to 21 years (the average of 25 years old also factors in late-onset bipolar cases, increasing the median age). As only up to three percent of children receive a bipolar diagnosis, childhood bipolar is relatively rare. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 8 million adults (18 years of age or older) in the United States will experience bipolar disorder at some point in their lives; it affects men and women equally.

The prevalence of bipolar in adolescents (13 to 18 years old) is just under three percent; the highest prevalence is seen between the ages of 17 to 18 years old (over four percent).

Bipolar is a complex mental health condition that affects everyone differently. Certain events, situations, experiences, thoughts, or feelings can precipitate a quick onset of manic or depressive bipolar symptoms; this is known as a trigger. There are many different things that can trigger bipolar; everyone experiences other triggers, but the most common include:

• Changes in Sleep Patterns or Lack of Sleep
• Arguments with Partners, Coworkers, or Friends
• Relationship or Marital Stress
• Alcohol Abuse and Drug Intoxication, as well as the Aftereffects
• Antidepressants, Corticosteroids, and Other Medications
• A New Season and Abnormal Circadian Rhythm
• Pregnancy and Postpartum, along with Altered Sleep Patterns and
Changing Hormones
• Financial Strains Due to a Job Loss
• Death of a Loved One and Bereavement

There are many signs that can indicate when a person is bipolar, including extreme emotional or energetic highs and lows, which may manifest as

• Irritability, aggressiveness, rage
• Hopelessness, depression, severe sadness
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
• Being in a perfect mood
• Hyperactivity or overactivity
• Excessive optimism
• Maniacal laughter

The official answer is no, bipolar cannot be cured, only treated, but some medical professionals disagree with that conclusion. The current consensus on the curability of mental illnesses is still highly debated; many official sources claim that bipolar and other mental health disorders cannot be cured, yet countless patients have experienced a complete reversal of symptoms and continue to live productive and fulfilling life free of the condition. But instead of being considered curable, bipolar is regarded as “treatable,” even with a complete absence of symptoms and no ongoing treatment used to manage symptoms. However, therapy can cure bipolar in the sense that there is no need for long-term treatment or reliance on medication for the alleviation or management of symptoms.

If you or someone you love has bipolar disorder, the mental health professionals at Reaching Resolution are here to help you improve your quality of life and overall well-being. For more information call us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 9719 Northeast Parkway, Suite 100 Matthews NC 28105. We serve clients from Matthews NC, Charlotte NC, Mint Hill NC, Indian Trail NC, Pineville NC, and Stallings NC.