The Basics: Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition in which a person experiences extreme highs (mania) and extreme lows (depression). During a manic episode, a person’s mood is excessively “high,” irritable, or aggressive. It is common for a person who is manic to think that nothing is wrong with his behavior even though it is extremely distressing to family and friends. During a depressive episode, a person may feel sad or lose interest in previously enjoyable activities. People with bipolar disorder experience a variety of mood patterns; one person might have mostly episodes of mania or mostly episodes of depression, while another person may cycle rapidly between the two. It is also possible for someone to remain symptom-free for extended periods of time.

You Should Know

Bipolar disorder usually starts to affect people in their late teens or early twenties.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that bipolar disorder affects more than 2 million American adults. That's just over 1% of the population.

In its early stages, bipolar disorder may masquerade as a problem other than mental illness. For example, it may first appear as alcohol or drug abuse, or poor school or work performance.

Bipolar disorder tends to run in families. However, despite ongoing research efforts, a specific genetic defect associated with the disease has not yet been identified.

Signs and Symptoms

Mania

  • Excessively "high," euphoric mood
  • Extreme irritability
  • Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers, such as feeling able to control world events
  • Decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
  • Racing thoughts or fast speech
  • Distractibility or difficulty concentrating
  • Agitation
  • Spending sprees
  • Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
  • Poor judgment
  • Lasting period of atypical behavior
  • Increased sexual drive
  • Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
  • Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior
  • Denial that anything is wrong

Depression

  • Persistently sad, anxious, irritable or empty mood
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, including sex
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Feeling tired or rundown
  • Significant change in appetite and/or weight
  • Anger and rage
  • Overreaction to criticism
  • Feeling unable to meet expectations
  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating, remembering or making decisions
  • Feeling restless or agitated
  • Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt
  • Persistent physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems or chronic pain that do not respond to routine treatment
  • Substance abuse problems
  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

For Immediate Assistance

Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)