Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder. Everyone has ups and downs in their moods but if you have bipolar disorder your mood swings are much more extreme.
For most people with bipolar disorder, manic and depressive moods alternate. You may cycle between the moods, or have periods of stability between them.
It’s important to get a diagnosis if you think you may have bipolar disorder. While a manic high can feel great at the time, it can cause you to act in ways that are damaging to you, your life and your relationships. And in a severe depressive state, it can be next to impossible to carry on with life and you may be at risk of suicide.
If you experience a manic high you may feel wonderful, ecstatic and energetic. You may not know anything is wrong until afterwards, when you look back.
You may:
If you are in a period of depression, on the other hand, life feels bleak.
You may:
Some people also experience psychosis: during mania your sense of importance or your suspicions may develop into delusions; in a depressive episode you may start seeing and hearing things that others don’t (hallucinations) or have delusions.
People with bipolar disorder often find it hard to seek treatment but getting professional help can make a huge difference.
Mind is a national mental health charity with excellent resources and support.
Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). Symptoms of mania can include high energy, impulsivity, and reduced need for sleep, while depression may involve fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and loss of interest in daily activities.
During a manic episode, you might feel euphoric, overconfident, energetic, and unusually sociable. Common behaviours include talking very fast, making risky decisions, acting impulsively, and having racing thoughts. You may not recognise anything is wrong until later.
Depressive episodes can make life feel bleak and hopeless. You might feel extremely tired, emotionally empty, worthless, and struggle with concentration or decision-making. Changes in sleep, appetite, and suicidal thoughts are also common.
Yes. In severe cases, people may experience psychosis. This can include hallucinations or delusions, especially during manic or depressive episodes. For example, you might believe things that aren’t true or see/hear things others don’t.
If you suspect you have bipolar disorder, organisations like Bipolar UK, Mind, Rethink, and SANE offer helpful resources, support, and mood tracking tools. These can assist with diagnosis and ongoing management.
