Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by dramatic fluctuations in mood, energy, and concentration. It causes individuals to alternate between manic episodes which may include periods of high energy, irritability, or euphoria and depressive episodes, which bring deep sadness, low energy, and apathy.
* This summary is for educational purposes only and is based on established clinical guidelines (DSM-5-TR / NIMH). It does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis. *Condition Snapshot
Bipolar disorder is marked by drastic mood and energy swings—ranging from elevated manic and hypomanic states to severe depressive lows. Below is a snapshot of the condition, outlining its primary signs, symptoms, and usual onset.
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar I disorder is defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days (most of the day, nearly every day) or when manic symptoms are so severe that hospital care is needed. Usually, separate depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. Episodes of mood disturbance with mixed features are also possible. The experience of four or more episodes of mania or depression within a year is termed “rapid cycling.”
Bipolar II disorder is defined by a pattern of depressive and hypomanic episodes, but the hypomanic episodes are less severe than the manic episodes in bipolar I disorder. Many people with bipolar II disorder spend extended periods in a persistent, low-grade depressive state.
Cyclothymic disorder (also called cyclothymia) is defined by recurrent hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not intense enough or do not last long enough to qualify as hypomanic or depressive episodes.
“Other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders” is a diagnosis that refers to bipolar disorder symptoms that do not match the three major types of bipolar disorder outlined above.
Symptoms of a Manic Episode can include
Racing thoughts
Decreased need for sleep
Talking fast about a lot of different things (“flight of ideas”)
Excessive appetite for food, drinking, sex, or other pleasurable activities
Feeling unusually important, talented, or powerful
Symptoms of a Major Depressive Episode can include
Trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or sleeping too much
Talking very slowly, feeling unable to find anything to say, or forgetting a lot
Lack of interest in almost all activities
Unable to do even simple things
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
All forms of bipolar disorder can cause difficulty maintaining work responsibilities, social activities, or relationships
Sources: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)Latest Research & Clinical Evidence
Our continuously updated index of peer-reviewed literature. We translate complex clinical papers into accessible summaries, covering everything from core clinical statistics and historical evidence to the latest findings.
Lived Experience & Survivor Stories
Every individual's journey with bipolar disorder is unique. We are building a space to elevate authentic personal experiences, coping strategies, and stories of hope to ensure no one navigates this diagnosis alone.
Be the First to Share Your Journey
We are currently gathering our first community stories for Bipolar Disorder. Your story can offer comfort, hope, and clarity to someone navigating a similar path.
Resources & Support
Selected support networks, educational tools, and clinical trial locators dedicated specifically to bipolar disorder.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Bipolar Disorder - Overview, Treatments, and Finding Support
ClinicalTrials.gov
Post-Partum Support International (PSI)
Bipolar Support - for Perinatal (Pregnancy and Postpartum) Moms and Birthing People
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
Living Successfully with a Mood Disorder Workbook-My Living Successfully Plan
Mood Crew | For Ages 4-10 | - free educational program offering interactive activities, and resources to help children understand and manage their emotions.
International Bipolar Foundation (IBF)
Connect with Patients Like Me - free health tracking and peer community for individuals managing bipolar disorder.
Clinician Connection- confidential peer support community designed specifically for mental health clinicians living with bipolar disorder.
If you are in a crisis, please call 988 (U.S & Canada) or you can also text the crisis line, text “CONNECT” to 741741