The signs of bipolar disorder can often be difficult to identify. Once an individual identifies the symptoms and side effects of bipolar disorder, the next step in the recovery journey become clear.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Learn about bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorders include a group of several serious mental illnesses that are associated with extreme shifts in mood states that can range from intense euphoria and happiness to periods of depression. While every person experiences ups and downs in daily life, people who have a bipolar disorder experience these changes in mood in a far more extreme manner that can last for days, weeks, or even months. These shifts in mood can cause serious effects for an individual if care is not sought.

The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders provides the specific criteria that must be met in order for a person to be diagnosed with one of three types of bipolar disorders. Bipolar I disorder involves periods of intense mania and depression, while bipolar II includes periods of hypomania (a milder form of mania) along with periods of deep depression. Cyclothymic disorder involves periods of milder mood elevation that alternates with periods of milder depression. Individuals who have rapid-cycling bipolar disorder experience four or more cycles of mania and depression over a 12 month period.

Unfortunately, many of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are not immediately recognized as being related, so many people live with bipolar disorder without the proper treatment and support needed. However, with the right medication(s), therapies, and support, people with bipolar disorders are able to live healthy lives.

Statistics

Bipolar disorder statistics

Bipolar disorder is thought to affect nearly six million individuals over the age of 12 in the United States. While the average age of symptom onset is 25, this mental illness can impact individuals in childhood or later in life. Men and women across all age, ethnic, and social groups suffer equally from bipolar disorder. Sadly, research also shows that one in five individuals who have bipolar disorder attempts suicide, which further demonstrates the importance of receiving care for this illness.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes and risk factors for bipolar disorder

Researchers are not entirely certain why one individual develops bipolar disorder while another does not. Bipolar disorder is generally thought to be the result of a number of factors working together. However, the commonly known causes for bipolar disorder include the following:

Genetic: It is generally believed that bipolar disorder runs in families. Individuals with family members who have the disorder are more likely to develop the disorder than others. Therefore if a person has a parent or sibling with this illness, the risk for then experiencing this disorder is high.

Environmental: There are a number of environmental influences that are linked to triggering bipolar disorder symptoms, as well as those that can worsen existing symptoms. These environmental influences can include extreme stress, lack of sleep, seasonal changes, and substance abuse.

Risk Factors:

Family history of bipolar disorder
Personal history of substance abuse
Experiencing a great deal of stress
Exposure to violence or crime
Being the victim of abuse or some other trauma
Family history of other mental health concerns

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary among individuals and present differently depending upon which cycle is experienced by the person. The following symptoms are those that may manifest during a depressive or manic episode:

Depressive episode

Hopelessness
Guilt
Sadness
Poor work or school performance
Frequent absenteeism from work or school
Difficulty meeting obligations at work or school
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Over or undereating
Anxiety symptoms
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Chronic pains without physical cause
Fatigue
Difficulties with concentration
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Manic episode:

Inflated self-esteem
Poor judgment
Rapid, pressured speech
Increased risk-taking behaviors
Racing thoughts
Aggression
Increase in physical activity
Increased amounts of energy
Inability to concentrate
Euphoric bliss
Agitation or irritation
Increased libido
Decreased need for food
Decreased need for sleep
Poor decision making
High distractibility
Frequent absences from work or school
Risky usage of drugs and alcohol
Impulsive choices

Effects

Effects of bipolar disorder

Individuals who do not receive treatment for bipolar disorder are likely to experience numerous effects that can be far-reaching across several areas of life. Some of the most common effects that can occur include: