(PCM) Lark Voorhies, better known as Lisa Turtle from Saved By The Bell has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, according to her mother.
Voorhies denies that she suffers from the disorder, but after a series of interviews with People, in which she would “frequently stop mid-sentence and stare off, often mumbling to herself or to others who weren’t there,” it was clear something was wrong. Her explanation: “I have a strong spiritual sense,” she says. “You caught me in moments of pray [sic].”
“There are things that have traumatized her,” said her mom, with whom she lives with in Pasadena, California. “I care deeply about my daughter, and I want her to resume her life.”
Bipolar disorder affects more than 10 million people in America. It is characterized by up-and-down episodes of mania and depression, and causes extreme shifts in mood, energy, and functioning. During a manic phase, some patients can have a total break from reality; a person’s mood can be elevated, they may have a lot of energy and creativity, and they may experience euphoria, according to Health. During depressive phases, they have the same symptoms as someone who suffers with depression: lack of energy and sleep, among other things.
Other symptoms include:
Inability to complete tasks
Irritability
Rapid speech
Trouble at work
Alcohol or drug use
Erratic behavior
Sleep problems
Flight of ideas
Risk taking
Increased feelings of worry and anxiety
If you believe you or someone you know is suffering from bipolar disorder, seek help immediately. Visit NAMI.org for more information
Photo Credit: EdRuvalcaba/LondonEnt/Splash
