Understanding And Identifying The Most Common Bipolar Tendencies

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder—previously called manic depression—is a serious mental health condition marked by episodes of mania and depression. This type of disorder affects a person’s mood and energy levels, which can in turn affect their ability to function in day-to-day activities. It typically manifests in adolescence or adulthood, with the average age of onset being 25. 

The cause of bipolar disorder is thought to be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain. In addition, the American Psychiatric Association reports that 80 to 90% of people with bipolar disorder have a relative with bipolar disorder or depression—indicating that a genetic component is likely to exist as well. There are other risk factors that are thought to contribute to the development of the disorder, including the use of recreational drugs, highly stressful or traumatic events, and sleep disruptions. 

Bipolar disorder is sometimes comorbid with other mental illnesses, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), eating disorders, substance use disorders, or anxiety disorders. It is also associated with an increased risk of certain types of physical illness, such as heart disease, which can lead to further complications in day-to-day life. 

Key symptoms of bipolar disorder

As mentioned, one of the most recognizable symptoms of bipolar disorder is some level of alternation between manic or hypomanic and depressive states. People with bipolar disorder can experience varying patterns of symptoms, such as rapid cycling, in which four manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes occur in one year. They may also experience mixed episodes, periods marked by both manic and depressive symptoms. In this section, we’re taking a closer look at what characterizes these two moods.

Manic or hypomanic symptoms

During a manic episode, a person might describe themselves as feeling wired or “up”. Mania symptoms—including increased energy, feelings of euphoria, and a heightened sense of self-esteem—can be disconcerting to the person experiencing them and their loved ones. As a result of the mood symptoms of a manic episode, the individual may find it difficult to sleep and may speak quickly, jumping frequently from topic to topic. Mania can also come with feelings of agitation and irritation. 

A person in a manic phase may experience racing thoughts, which can lead to engaging in excessive and/or risky activities such as drug use, damaging spending, or unsafe sexual behaviors. A true manic episode will last at least one week, and symptoms will typically be categorized as severe. Note that people with different types of bipolar disorder may experience hypomania instead, which is characterized by milder symptoms of mania that typically last for at least four days instead of at least a week. Hypomania symptoms, unlike the symptoms of a manic episode, typically do not cause social or occupational impairment.

Depressive symptoms

Low mood, loss of interest in activities, and lack of motivation are common warning signs of a major depressive episode. When someone with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode, they may begin feeling sad, hopeless, or empty. People with bipolar depression are also likely to have low energy levels, which can make daily functioning or even getting out of bed difficult. Activities they once enjoyed may hold no value or interest for them during this time. 

The individual may also experience feelings of anxiety, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and significant changes in eating and sleeping habits. As with manic bipolar episodes, thoughts of self-harm may arise during depressive episodes, which is one reason that seeking treatment for a disorder like this can be so important. How long a depressive episode lasts depends on the type of bipolar disorder a person has.

The four types of bipolar disorder

While fluctuations between manic and depressive states represent the key symptom of bipolar disorder, the intensity, duration, and some particulars of the way they manifest can vary from person to person. These factors are typically related to the type of bipolar disorder an individual has. There are four key types, as detailed below.

Bipolar I disorder

Bipolar I disorder is defined by episodes of mania that last for at least seven days, or possibly by manic symptoms which are so severe that the individual may need to be hospitalized. They will typically also experience depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks at a time. “Mixed episodes”, which have characteristics of both mania and depression, may also occur.

Bipolar II disorder

Those with bipolar II disorder will also tend to experience fluctuations between “high” and “low” states. This is especially true for manic episodes, as those with bipolar II disorder usually do not have full manic episodes that would require hospitalization. Instead, they experience periods of hypomania, a milder form of mania, in between depressive episodes.

Cyclothymic disorder 

Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, is the third type of bipolar disorder. It’s usually characterized by alternating symptoms of hypomania and depression. However, the duration and intensity of hypomanic and depressive symptoms will generally be shorter and less severe, respectively, than an individual with bipolar disorder I or II might experience, so that they don’t qualify as clinical episodes. 

Unspecified bipolar disorder

Finally, some people may experience symptoms that match up with bipolar disorder in general, but that don’t neatly fit into any of the three categories described above. 

How bipolar disorder is treated

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, treatment for bipolar disorders is usually lifelong. However, most people with bipolar disorder can live stable, fulfilling, autonomous lives with the right type of treatment, which can even be effective for those with severe cases. Treatment most commonly includes some combination of medication to manage symptoms and psychotherapy to help provide coping mechanisms and support. An individual’s treatment plan will typically depend on their specific symptoms, medical history, and the existence of any comorbid conditions. Age is another important factor, given that children’s and teens’ symptoms can differ from those of adults. 

Commonly prescribed medications include mood stabilizers and antipsychotics. Other drugs, such as antidepressants, may also help with mood changes. Always consult with a healthcare professional prior to starting or stopping any medication. If you feel you may be experiencing bipolar symptoms, speaking with a qualified health professional for evaluation and treatment options is typically recommended. An experienced provider can explain the benefits and potential side effects of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and other medications.  

How therapy can help

Most people who seek treatment for bipolar disorder will develop a relationship with a psychiatrist who can help them manage their symptoms. Some individuals may also choose to meet with a therapist to help them process any emotions about their condition in a safe place and to assist them in developing healthy coping mechanisms for distressing feelings or symptoms. If you’re interested in seeking the support of a therapist in addition to the medical or psychiatric attention you’re receiving for bipolar disorder, you can typically do so either in person or online. 

For those who are seeking a more cost-effective option, online therapy is a popular choice. With a virtual counseling platform like BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed therapist who you can meet with via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging to get support for the challenges you may be facing. Research suggests that online delivery of therapy for late-stage bipolar disorder appears “feasible and effective”, which means it may be an option worth considering for those who prefer the convenience of this format.

Takeaway