7 Signs You May Have Bipolar Disorder

By Allie Sadowski

Allie is a member of the GLPG Marketing team and a contributor to the Current and the Notepad.

A recent study shows that bipolar disorder affects around 2.3% of the American population. However, many individuals remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for extended periods. However, many individuals remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for extended periods. Recognizing the signs of bipolar disorder can make a significant difference in managing the condition effectively.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is characterized by major shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. There are 3 different types of bipolar disorder. These are:

1. Bipolar 1 Disorder: Characterized by manic episodes that last for at least 7 days (nearly every day for most of the day) or by manic symptoms that are so severe that an individual needs immediate medical care. Depressive episodes occur in bipolar 1 disorder as well, and these episodes usually last for at least 2 weeks.
2. Bipolar 2 Disorder: Characterized by both manic and depressive episodes, but the hypomanic episodes experienced in individuals with bipolar 2 disorder are less severe than the manic episodes episodes in bipolar 1 disorder.
3. Cyclothymic Disorder: Characterized by recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not intense enough or do not last long enough to qualify as hypomanic or depressive episodes.

Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can impact people in different ways. Recognizing the signs of bipolar disorder and seeking treatment can significantly improve daily function.

1. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Sleep disturbances for people with bipolar disorder are common. These can include insomnia, daytime sleepiness, nightmares, difficulty falling or staying asleep, poor sleep quality, sleep talking, sleep walking, and obstructive sleep apnea.
2. Periods of Agitation or Hyperactivity: Individuals with bipolar disorder may feel uneasy or restless. Some signs of agitation can include picking or pulling at hair, skin, or clothing, outbursts, poor impulse control, or violent or disruptive behavior.
3.  Difficulty Concentrating: Distractability is a common bipolar disorder symptom that can be apparent in both manic and depressive episodes. Other bipolar disorder symptoms may also contribute and worsen concentration in daily life. These symptoms include racing thoughts, increased energy or agitation, and a decreased need for sleep.
4. Impaired Judgement: Decision-making is skill that is commonly impacted in individuals with bipolar disorder. The degree of difficulty with judgement or decision-making often varies depending on whether the individual is manic, depressed, or in-between episodes.
5. Impulsivity: Impulsive behavior is a common symptom associated with bipolar disorder during manic episodes. Examples of impulsivity can include shopping sprees, substance use, or risky sexual activities.
6. Withdrawal From Friends and/or Family: Individuals with bipolar disorder may experience periods of time where they self-isolate from loved ones. These behaviors can look like isolation, withdrawal, irritability, and/or abrupt changes in communication.
7. Extreme Mood Swings: The most widely known symptom of bipolar disorder is extreme mood swings between a depressed episode and a manic episode. When an individual with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressed episode, they may feel sad, hopeless, loss of interest in activities that they usually enjoy, or isolated. When an individual with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode, they may feel energetic, overly confident, agitated, and talkative.

Common Bipolar Disorder Misconceptions

One common misunderstanding is that individuals with bipolar disorder experience mood swings frequently and rapidly. While mood changes do happen, they typically occur over days, weeks, or even months, contrary to the belief that they change within minutes or hours.

Another misconception is that people with bipolar disorder are either always happy or always sad. In reality, their emotional states can range dramatically and don’t always fit neatly into ‘happy’ or ‘sad’ labels. Individuals with bipolar disorder can be in what’s often referred to as an “in-between” state.

Additionally, many people think that individuals with bipolar disorder can’t be successful or lead normal lives. This is far from the truth. With appropriate treatment and support, many with bipolar disorder go on to have fulfilling personal and professional lives.

How to Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder

Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder is crucial for their well-being and your relationship. Begin by educating yourself about bipolar disorder, its symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding the condition can help you provide informed support.

Patience and understanding are key when supporting a partner, friend, or family member with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong journey, and support from loved ones can make a significant difference in one’s daily life. Simple ways of showing support to someone with bipolar disorder can include:

• Showing empathy
• Listening without judgement
• Regularly checking-in on their well-being
• Offering to help with daily tasks

While support from loved ones can positively impact the daily life of someone with bipolar disorder, professional help from a therapist or other mental health professional is often necessary for individuals with bipolar disorder. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help. Therapy, including those specifically designed for bipolar disorder, can offer essential tools and strategies. A few common types of therapy for people with bipolar disorder include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most commonly used types of therapy. CBT is a type of talk therapy that aims to recognize and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to one’s symptoms.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is another commonly used type of talk therapy. DBT aims to help people learn how to better regulate emotions, improve relationships, and reduce impulsive behaviors.
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): IPSRT focuses on helping individuals regulate their daily routines including sleep-wake cycles, social interactions, work, hobbies, and eating patterns.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder is an important step towards understanding and managing bipolar disorder. It’s important to remember that while it can be challenging, there are effective treatment options available. Seeking therapy can equip you or a loved one with the tools to navigate bipolar disorder more effectively. Early intervention can make a significant difference, so if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At findmytherapist.com, you can browse hundreds of therapists who accept insurance and schedule your first appointment instantly.