The hallmark symptom of bipolar disorder is the occurrence of mania or hypomania, which are distinct periods of an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased energy or activity levels.
Here, mental health experts share seven common phrases to avoid saying to anyone with bipolar disorder — and the thoughtful, helpful things to say instead.
Antipsychotics for bipolar disorder
The first red flag of bipolar disorder often appears as significant changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping), dramatic shifts in mood (intense irritability, euphoria, or deep sadness), and increased energy or agitation, often accompanied by racing thoughts, impulsivity (like risky spending), or severe fatigue and loss of interest during depressive phases, with these shifts differing greatly from typical mood swings and often impacting daily functioning.
Yes, a person with bipolar disorder can appear completely normal, especially when their mood is stable. Many people with bipolar disorder are unaware of this mental condition, living their lives normally and doing their jobs.
At the outset, bipolar symptoms are commonly mistaken for ADHD, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and, in its more severe manifestations, as schizophrenia.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
The Big Five personality comprises independent traits of neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness and conscientiousness (McCrae and John 1992) and forms the basis of several personality inventories (Costa and McCrae 1992).
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
People coping with Bipolar Disorder often need extended periods of time spent alone. Make sure to give them their space to deal with whatever they have to.
The Takeaway. A poor diet can contribute to bipolar mood episodes, and certain food choices may help manage them. People with bipolar disorder should avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol, sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
The prevalence of ADHD in adults with bipolar disorder is also significant. Research suggests that: Adults with Bipolar Disorder: Studies indicate that between 10% to 20% of adults with bipolar disorder may also meet the criteria for ADHD (Kessler et al., 2006).
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.
This therapy focuses on stabilizing daily rhythms, including sleeping, waking and eating. A consistent routine helps manage moods. A daily routine for sleep, diet and exercise may help people with bipolar disorder.
Common triggers for episodes include stressful life events, drastic changes, substance abuse, disrupted sleep, and abruptly stopping medication. During manic episodes, avoid arguments, intense conversations, and taking comments personally; staying calm helps reduce tension and creates a safer environment.
How many hours should a bipolar person sleep? People should try to sleep at least 7 hours per night, regardless of whether they have a condition such as bipolar disorder.
Your routine could include: Day-to-day activities, such as the time you eat meals and go to sleep. Making time for relaxation, mindfulness, hobbies and social plans. Taking any medication at the same time each day.
Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings. These include emotional highs, also known as mania or hypomania, and lows, also known as depression. Hypomania is less extreme than mania.
Bipolar I disorder is the most severe form of the illness. Bipolar II disorder is characterized by predominantly depressive episodes accompanied by occasional hypomanic episodes. Hypomanic episodes are milder than manic episodes but can still impair functioning.
Identifying and managing triggers is an essential part of living with bipolar disorder. Common triggers include: Stressful Life Events: Major life changes, such as moving, a new job or the death of a loved one, can trigger episodes. Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug use can exacerbate symptoms or trigger an episode.
Those with borderline personality disorder may have an unstable sense of self. Both conditions are marked by shifts in mood and can involve being impulsive. A 2021 literature review found that antisocial personality disorder was more common among people with bipolar disorder, in particular bipolar I disorder.
Five key signs of bipolar disorder involve extreme mood shifts, including manic/hypomanic symptoms like inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, high energy/activity, and impulsive behaviors (spending/sex), alongside depressive symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and sleep/appetite changes, creating significant life disruption.
10 Warning Signs
Intense mood swings disrupting daily life. Cycles of depression with guilt, worthlessness, or suicidal thoughts. Risky behaviors (spending sprees, gambling, reckless driving). Surges in energy and multitasking.
Bipolar disorder can be confused with other mental health conditions, such as ADHD or 'unipolar' depression. The manic episodes associated with Bipolar may not be obvious.
Age at onset of type-I bipolar disorder (BPD) typically averages 12-24 years, is older among patients with type-II BPD, and oldest in unipolar major depressive disorder 1,2,3. Reported onset ages probably vary by ascertainment methods, and possibly among different countries and cultures 1,2,3,4,5,6.