Bipolar Symptoms

Bipolar disorder is a very serious mental illness and when left untreated can become worse and disrupt the lives of the individual as well as the loved ones who surround them. While there is no cure for this mental illness, recognizing the signs and symptoms and getting the proper medical treatment can help maintain a normal life and prevent a tragedy from occurring due to the symptoms of this disorder.

Individuals who have bipolar disorder experience mood swings which can be "ups" - or "manic episodes" - and "downs" or "depression". There are also those who experience "hypomania" which is "mania" with less severe symptoms, and "mixed episodes" which consists of "mania" or "hypomania" and "depression".    

The Symptoms of "Mania" and "Hypomania" or "Manic Episodes"

When an individual experiences the "mania" symptoms of bipolar disorder they can become extremely euphoric, hyperactive, have a lot of energy, and often feel as if they are invincible. This heightened state of euphoria can lead them to do many things on an extreme level which can be detrimental such as shopping sprees, gambling, and engaging in sexual promiscuity.

 They also have a tendency to do impulsive things and have poor judgment such as quitting their job, or making goals and plans which are unattainable. The symptoms of "Hypomania" are very similar to the "mania" but tend to be much less severe as the individual still remains productive in their day to day life.

The Mixed Episodes Depression Side of Bipolar Disorder

When an individual experiences the depressive state in bipolar disorder they may eat less or overeat causing them to have a significant change in weight, they often feel great sadness with a loss of self worth, they are unable to enjoy anything in their life, and also have a loss of energy and feel fatigued.

The state of depression in bipolar disorder can also lead to thoughts of suicide. When an individual has mixed episodes they can experience the symptoms of both mania and depression simultaneously or one right after the other with racing thoughts, irritability, and anxiety.

There is also a higher risk of suicide associated with these mixed episodes. It essential if you or a loved one is experiencing any of these types of mood disorders, you obtain a consultation with a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.