Bipolar, he says, is both a blessing and curse. "It's mostly a gift, and sometimes it's more a curse to your family because they've got to live with it," he says. The blessing, Mr Higgins says, is that many of those living with bipolar disorder see life in far more colourful terms.
Mania and hypomania are distinct episodes but with the same symptoms. During manic episodes, individuals with bipolar disorder may exhibit grandiose delusions, such as believing they have special powers or abilities, or that they are destined for greatness.
Bipolar disorder can cause your mood to swing from an extreme high to an extreme low. Manic symptoms can include increased energy, excitement, impulsive behaviour, and agitation. Depressive symptoms can include lack of energy, feeling worthless, low self-esteem and suicidal thoughts.
Bipolar disorder may make it more difficult for you to interpret people's emotions. Missed clues make it harder for you to empathize when others feel happy or sad. If someone is feeling troubled, you may lack enough empathy to be moved to help.
“When you're in a hypomanic or manic state, you're also more likely to feel you're in love,” says Haase. “You may then act on that feeling when making major long-term life decisions, not understanding your state had something to do with what you were feeling.”
Hypersexuality can exist as a sign of bipolar disorder or on its own. Also referred to as compulsive sexual behavior or sexual addiction, hypersexuality is described as a dysfunctional preoccupation with sexual fantasies, urges, or behaviors that are difficult to control.
Extreme moods and energy levels of bipolar can translate into hypersexuality or disinterest. Although challenging at times, it's absolutely possible to have a fulfilling sex life as a person with bipolar disorder. You just have to be mindful of the complications and look out for the pitfalls.
“People with BPD often find themselves placing their attention on one specific person. This person may be a friend, family member, or romantic partner. A favorite person frequently is expected (consciously or otherwise) to help resolve unmet needs for the person with BPD.”
A person with bipolar disorder is naturally uncooperative and rebellious. This disorder triggers violent behavior. Manic episodes are characterized by “crazy” behavior. Most people with this disorder are “hyper” much of the time.
When bipolars become jealous, jealousy becomes magnified by the symptoms of our illnesses. We can create whole imaginary scenes about the perceived injustice. Anger and agitation caress us instead of gratitude. Remembering to practice gratitude for the real things in our lives can keep the jealous bug away.
1. Mariah Carey. Singer, songwriter, actress and producer Mariah Carey has won too many awards to list. The iconic artist opened up in 2018 about her 2001 diagnosis of bipolar disorder, in which she was hospitalized for a physical and mental breakdown.
People with bipolar disorder can work, but they may face challenges. Many mental health conditions can make it difficult for a person to carry out day-to-day responsibilities, especially in the workplace.
High Achievement with Bipolar Disorder
All reached the top of their game—with bipolar disorder. Seemingly, the traits that make high achievers—energy, confidence, unconventional thinking, and a high tolerance for risk—are also linked to the milder stages of hypomania.
They found that 12 risk genes for bipolar disorder were also linked to intelligence. In 75 % of these genes, bipolar disorder risk was associated with higher intelligence. In schizophrenia, there was also a genetic overlap with intelligence, but a higher proportion of the genes was associated with cognitive impairment.
Are my periods of happiness just mania? My short answer is: Yes, a person who lives with bipolar disorder can certainly be truly happy.
Left untreated, bipolar disorder can result in serious problems that affect every area of your life, such as: Problems related to drug and alcohol use. Suicide or suicide attempts. Legal or financial problems.
A bipolar person may avoid relationships because they don't feel good enough for other people. Sometimes these feelings come on quickly and cause those with mental health conditions to push away others in existing relationships. This can lead to social isolation.
Bad Breakups or Marriage Breakdowns
A number of people with bipolar disorder — especially those with a history of severe manic episodes — experience a breakdown in their marriages. If you're going through a divorce, working with your therapist through what is often a drawn-out and extremely stressful process can help.
The phrase “bipolar meltdown” could refer to a bipolar person having a manic episode or being in a depressed state. These conditions could cause them to lose control of their emotions and have trouble managing them.