Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complicated illness, so the process of diagnosing bipolar disorder is equally complicated. However, there are some general symptoms that will usually be present in some form or strength in a patient suffering from bipolar disorder. Knowing the symptoms is very important to getting treatment, so here are some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, is distinguished from regular or "unipolar" depression by the presence of an elevated mood episode, better known as mania. Bipolar disorder is also distinguished from ordinary moods by the extreme nature of these mood changes, from euphoria to deep despair. The mood episodes can last anywhere from hours to days to weeks to months. Bipolar disorder usually begins presenting in an individual during that individual's late adolescence, but earlier appearances have occurred in children.

Mania, known as the "high" end of bipolar disorder, has a laundry list of symptoms. Mania is characterized by heightened mood, grandiose thoughts, exaggerated self esteem, decrease need for sleep, increase in energy, racing thoughts and/or speech, impulsive and/or reckless behavior, and being easily distracted. In some severe cases, hallucinations and delusions may occur.

Depression, known as the "low" end of bipolar disorder, also has several symptoms. Depression is characterized by prolonged low mood, unexplained crying spells, changes in appetite, weight, and sleep pattern, irritability, agitation, pessimism, loss of interest, lethargy, feelings of guilt, inability to concentrate, social withdrawal, dark thoughts, and unexplained aches and pains.

Another aspect of bipolar disorder, known as mixed episodes, is characterized by presenting symptoms of both depression and mania simultaneously. For example, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance states that "They have all the negative feelings that come with depression, but they also feel agitated, restless and activated, or 'wired.'" Many people with bipolar disorder claim that mixed states are the absolute worst part of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is an extremely difficult illness to have, but the very first step is to recognize the signs and symptoms of the illness so that a correct diagnosis can be made by a trained medical professional or a psychiatrist. Having a misdiagnosis only slows down the treatment procedure, so it is important to become familiar with the signs and symptoms as early as possible.

For more information on bipolar disorder, please visit the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance website at http://www.dbsalliance.org