What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder affects more than two million adult Americans. It usually begins in late adolescence (often appearing as depression during teen years) although it can start in early childhood or later in life. An equal number of men and women develop this illness (men tend to begin with a manic episode, women with a depressive episode) and it is found among all ages, races, ethnic groups and social classes. The illness tends to run in families and appears to have a genetic link. Like depression and other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder can also negatively affect spouses and partners, family members, friends and coworkers. (top)

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder differs significantly from clinical depression, although the symptoms for the depressive phase of the illness are similar. Most people who have bipolar disorder talk about experiencing "highs" and "lows" – the highs are periods of mania, the lows periods of depression. These swings can be severe, ranging from extreme energy to deep despair. The severity of the mood swings and the way they disrupt normal life activities distinguish bipolar mood episodes from ordinary mood changes.

Symptoms of mania - the "highs" of bipolar disorder

• Increased physical and mental activity and energy

• Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence

• Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior

• Decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue

• Grandiose delusions, inflated sense of self-importance

• Racing speech, racing thoughts, flight of ideas

• Impulsiveness, poor judgment, distractibility

• Reckless behavior 

• In the most severe cases, delusions and hallucinations

Symptoms of depression - the "lows" of bipolar disorder

• Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells

• Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns

• Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety

• Pessimism, indifference

• Loss of energy, persistent lethargy

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness

• Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness

• Inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal

• Unexplained aches and pains

• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide