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Bipolar Disorder/bipolar eposide and blackouts

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Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 1/26/2008


Question
Can a blackout (loss of 2-3 hours) occur during a bipolar episode or anxiety attack?

Answer
Hi Karen:

There are a couple of things that need to be considered with "blackouts".  The first thing is a need to get a physical exam to check for possible seizures.  This must be eliminated first and foremost.

Many people who have extreme bipolar episodes do experience a "blackout" of sorts.  While they are fully functioning at the time, they come out of the episode not remembering what they said or did.  So...yes, it is possible, although not typical when the bipolar disorder is accurately treated.
                      Joyce A. Anthony

Bipolar Disorder

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Joyce A. Anthony

Expertise

I can answer questions dealing with bipolar disorder in a parent, yourself or your child. I can give suggestions and insight into what can be expected of many medications for bipolar disorder. My most extensive knowledge is in children with bipolar disorder. Here I can give advice on dealing with daily events, schools, medication and professionals.

Experience

I am the daughter of a bipolar/schizophrenic parent, am bipolar myself and am raising a bipolar child. I have a background in Psychology from Gannon University, have run several parenting classes for those parenting bipolar children and have had extensive experience with medications, the school system, homeschooling a special needs child, dealing with counselors, doctors and other professionals in the mental health field. I write for a bipolar website, with the focus on educating the child with bipolar disorder on his/her illness.

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