Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, which used to be known as manic-depressive disorder, causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of the disorder can be severe and are different from the normal ups and downs that most people experience from time to time. Left untreated, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can result in damaged relationships, poor school or work performance, and even suicidal thoughts or actions.

People with bipolar disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called “mood episodes.” Each mood episode represents a drastic change from a person’s usual mood and behavior. An overly excited or energetic state is called a manic episode and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode. Sometimes a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression and is called a mixed episode. Extreme changes in energy, activity, sleep, and behavior go along with these changes in mood.

Symptoms of a Manic Episode

Feelings:

Overly happy
Unusually outgoing
Overly capable; invincible
Extremely creative
Unusually adventurous
Highly irritable

Physical Experiences:

Difficulty sleeping
Excessive energy
Restlessness
Increased heart rate

Thoughts and Thought Patterns:

Fast and racing thoughts
“I can do anything!”
Tangential; jumping from one topic to another
Easily distracted

Behavior Patterns:

Starting multiple new projects
Failing to finish tasks
Impulsivity
High risk behaviors, including sex or drugs/alcohol
Carelessness with money; gambling
Failure to manage responsibilities

Symptoms of a Depressive Episode

Feelings:

Sadness
Hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities
Confusion
Difficulty with concentration or memory
Worthlessness

Physical Experiences:

Slowed movements
Loss of appetite; stomach aches
Fatigue
Headaches

Thoughts and Thought Patterns:

Slow and confused thoughts
“I’m a failure”
Overly pessimistic thoughts
“I wish I were dead”
Difficulty making decisions

Behavior Patterns:

Poor school/work attendance
Failure to complete assignments
Talking about death/suicide
Poor appetite
Social withdrawal
Sleep difficulties; too much or too little
Poor personal hygiene

What to do if you think you have bipolar disorder

The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of medication and psychotherapy. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis, so make an appointment to be evaluated by a mental health professional. Follow up with the treatment plan that you and your provider(s) design. Some components of this plan will likely require you to:

Get into a regular schedule or rhythm. This should include sleep, personal hygiene, meals, study time, and social outlets/activities. Regular daily routines and sleep schedules may help protect against mood fluctuations.
Keep a daily journal or log of your mood, activity level, sleep and eating patterns. Share this with your treatment provider(s) for help in guiding your progress.
If you are taking medication for treatment, follow the prescription precisely and don’t stop taking the medication. Expect your symptoms to improve gradually, not immediately.
Manage your stress effectively. Experiment with new ways to relax. High-stress levels can prompt or worsen mood episodes.

What to do if someone you care about has bipolar disorder

Like other serious conditions, bipolar disorder can be difficult for spouses/partners, family members and friends. Dealing with the behavioral problems of persons with bipolar disorder, such as the wild spending sprees of manic episodes or the extreme social withdrawal of depressive episodes, is challenging. It can be difficult to know how to step in and help, and when to set firm boundaries. It is important that loved ones and caregivers make time for self-care. Counseling can provide helpful guidance and support.