Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. has Bipolar Disorder, Says Mayo Clinic
The Chicago Democrat has been on medical leave for about two months with the announced reasons ranging from a mood disorder, to depression and gastrointestinal issues.
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U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., is being treated for bipolar disorder, the Mayo Clinic announced Monday.
The clinic has diagnosed Jackson with Bipolar II, a treatable condition considered similar to Bipolar I disorder, "with moods cycling between high and low over time," according to WebMD.
"Congressman Jackson is responding well to the treatment and regaining his strength," the clinic said in a statement.
Bipolar II is likely caused "by a complex set of genetic and environmental factors," the clinic said. The statement referenced Jackson's 2004 weight loss surgery, stating that such a surgery can change how the body absorbs foods and medications.
About 2.5 percent of the United States population suffer from some form of bipolar disorder, according to WebMD. The Website also says people often develop symptoms in their teens and twenties.
Previous statements from Jackson's office mentioned that he was suffering from exhaustion. More recent statements placed him at the Mayo Clinic but said he was suffering from depression and gastrointestinal issues.
Jackson's opponent in the November election Brian Woodworth demanded more information from Jackson just last week.
This is the most detailed update on Jackson's condition so far.
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Alex Esche
6:37 pm on Monday, August 13, 2012
The clinic has diagnosed Jackson with Bipolar II, a treatable condition considered similar to Bipolar I disorder, "with moods cycling between high and low over time."
I suppose I'd have a treatable condition if antidepressants made me happier...
Dinkum
8:56 pm on Monday, August 13, 2012
Political high, "I might be the next Senator!". Political low, "I might be the next elected official sent to jail".
mr lahey
10:33 pm on Monday, August 13, 2012
how can someone like this represent us, even in the inefectual way he has, if hes not even there
illinois =doomed
what will it take to make a real change
vote them all out every time
Sarah A
6:42 am on Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Bipolar disorder IS a very treatable disease. I am not a big fan of Sen. Jackson, but it is possible to disagree with him, and even to discuss his legal situation without creating more stigma about mental illness.
SouthSide
12:00 pm on Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Bipolar is common and treatable. Mental illnesses should not carry a stigma. That's one of the many things wrong with our society. Treat health issues as health issues, whether they involve the brain or the heart or the lungs or the uterus or the color or the foot... I wish the Congressman good health.