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Symptoms of bipolar disorder
In this video, Dr Angus McLellan outlines the common symptoms of bipolar disorder and highlights how these can vary from person to person. Early recognition and personalised monitoring of mood changes in bipolar disorder can be key to getting timely support and reducing the impact of periods of mania or depression.
Signs of mania in bipolar
Elevated mood
Hyperactivity
Excessive euphoria
Reduced need for sleep
Rapid thoughts
Impulsive decision-making
Signs of depression in bipolar
Sad and hopeless mood
Loss of interest in activities
Worthlessness
Excessive guilt
Suicidal thoughts/plans
Difficulty concentrating
The different types of bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a complex condition with several types, including Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2.
Bipolar 1 disorder
The clearest characteristic of Bipolar 1 disorder is significant mood swings, which can involve periods of elation and low moods, including depression.
Bipolar 1 is also characterised by full manic episodes, defined as a period of elevated, expansive, or irritable mood lasting at least one week, accompanied by increased energy and activity. A manic episode may also include:
high self-esteem
little need for sleep
fast speech
racing thoughts
easy distractibility
In addition to manic episodes, people with Bipolar 1 can also experience major depressive episodes.
A major depressive episode is a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, as well as four or more additional symptoms, during the same two-week period. These symptoms may include weight and appetite changes, slowed thoughts and movement, fatigue, worthlessness or guilt, difficulty thinking or making decisions, suicidal thoughts, or changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or hypersomnia).
The types of episodes associated with Bipolar 1 disorder
When a person experiences a manic episode, Bipolar 1 may be diagnosed. It is also possible to experience hypomanic episode, depressive episodes, and periods of feeling neutral.
Bipolar 2 disorder
Recognising Bipolar 2 can sometimes be challenging as it may be mistaken for recurring depression due to the alternating experience of major depressive episodes and hypomania, a mild form of mania.
Hypomanic episodes typically last around four days, shorter than the manic episodes in Bipolar 1. During a hypomanic episode, symptoms are usually not severe enough to cause significant impairment in daily functioning and are not accompanied by psychotic symptoms.
Substance/medication-induced bipolar disorder
Recent studies have revealed that some people undergoing antidepressant treatment, such as medication or electroconvulsive therapy, may develop manic or hypomanic episodes that persist beyond the effect of the treatment.
Illegal drugs like cocaine or amphetamines can also trigger medication-induced bipolar disorder. Symptoms may include elevated mood that persists even after the substance has cleared the body.
Diagnosing substance and medication-induced bipolar disorder is complex and requires a skilled psychiatrist. If you are experiencing negative reactions while taking medication, it's important to seek help quickly.