Thes Diagnosis Of Bipolar Disorder - 1912 Words

Diagnostic Assessment: Silver Linings Playbook’s main character appears to be your average man. He comes off as one who may have a steady job that provides him with a reasonable salary, a wife, and possibly a growing family. However, this is only the opinion of someone who has not seen the struggles he deals with daily. After researching through resources such as The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and other scholarly journals, it is evident that Pat Solitano’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder stands true throughout the film. The main symptoms of bipolar disorder listed in the DSM-5 are high self esteem, decreased need for sleep, very talkative, racing thoughts, distractibility, increase in goals, and a continuous involvement in activities that could result in painful consequences. Through an evaluation of Pat in this movie, it will be clear to the reader that his diagnosis is accurate. The first symptom listed in the DSM-5 for bipolar disorder is high self-esteem. â€Å"Inflated self-esteem is typically present, ranging from uncritical self-confidence to marked grandiosity, and may reach delusional proportions. Despite lack of any particular experience or talent, the individual may embark on complex tasks such as writing a novel or seeking publicity for some impractical invention† (DSM-5). There are many scenes were this symptom is present in Pat’s words and actions. This first example is when Pat constantly brings up the topic of