What Are the Signs of Bipolar Disorder?

• Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). There are two main types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II.

  Bipolar I Disorder is defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days, or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate hospital care. Usually, depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. Episodes of depression with mixed features (having depression and manic symptoms at the same time) are also possible.

  Common signs of Bipolar I include:

  • Feeling unusually “high” and optimistic OR extremely irritable

  • Unrealistic, grandiose beliefs about one’s abilities or powers

  • Sleeping very little, but feeling extremely energetic

  • Talking so rapidly that others can’t keep up

  • Racing thoughts; jumping quickly from one idea to the next

  • Highly distractible, unable to concentrate

  • Impaired judgment and impulsiveness

  • Acting recklessly without thinking about the consequences

  • Delusions and hallucinations (in severe cases)

  Bipolar II Disorder is defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, but not the full-blown manic episodes that are typical of Bipolar I Disorder.

  Common signs of Bipolar II include:

  • Depressive episodes similar to those in Bipolar I (sadness, hopelessness, loss of energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in normal routine, sleep disturbances, thoughts of death or suicide)

  • Hypomanic episodes that are less severe than manic episodes (increased energy, euphoria, restlessness, rapid speech, impulsiveness, decreased need for sleep)

  It's important to note that bipolar disorder can look very different in different people. The symptoms vary widely in their pattern, severity, and frequency. Some people are more prone to either mania or depression, while others alternate equally between the two types of episodes. Some have frequent mood disruptions, while others experience only a few over a lifetime.