10 Warning Signs Of Bipolar Disorder That You Shouldn't Ignore

Dec 28, 2018 by apost team

Bipolar disorder is a serious - but often misunderstood - mental health condition. In the past, this disorder was known as manic depression because it is characterized by alternating cycles of depression and mania.

Someone with bipolar disorder feels energetic, hyperactive, and on top of the world during a manic phase, but soon finds themselves down in the dumps when the next depressive phase rolls around.

A person with bipolar disorder will likely behave in an unpredictable and erratic way of living unless they seek treatment for their condition. And seeking treatment is incredibly important for people living with bipolar disorder because it can have serious consequences if left untreated.

People who have this condition are at increased risk for hurting themselves or even committing suicide during a manic phase. They're also at risk for developing substance abuse issues, overspending, and engaging in dangerous or reckless behaviors.

Fortunately, bipolar disorder is treatable. And because more than one in 50 people in the U.S. has this condition, it's not difficult to find a doctor who knows how to help ease the symptoms. But it's important to recognize the warning signs of this disorder quickly. If any of the following symptoms sound familiar to you or remind you of a loved one, it's a good idea to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

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Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as depression. Depression is certainly a major part of this disorder, and it's a big factor in why people with bipolar disorder sometimes hurt themselves. If you've been struggling lately with feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in your favorite hobbies, and a general feeling of fatigue or apathy, don't assume you're simply depressed -- it could be bipolar disorder if coupled with other symptoms.

For someone to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder, they must experience periods of mania as well as depression. The frequency of manic cycles can vary, though. Some people only have a few manic episodes in their life. Other people with bipolar disorder experience mania regularly.

Mania can be difficult to spot and diagnose because it's often enjoyable to the person experiencing it. A manic episode is characterized by feelings of high energy and euphoria. This might seem like a positive thing, but it's actually not. Mania impairs the judgment of the person experiencing it, making them more likely to engage in unsafe behaviors and get into dangerous situations.

One hallmark of a manic episode is rapid or difficult-to-understand speech. Someone who talks too quickly to understand or who jumps from topic to topic in an erratic way may be going through a manic phase.

Having high self-esteem is generally healthy, but not when it's taken to an extreme. Someone with bipolar disorder may have an unrealistically positive view of themselves when they're having a manic episode. This can lead to engaging in inappropriate or reckless behaviors that the person later regrets.

Depression and mania can both make it difficult to concentrate. In a depressive phase, your mind might feel cloudy and you might struggle to make decisions. In a manic phase, your thoughts might race or jump around too quickly to keep up with. Many people with bipolar disorder do not recognize this symptom in themselves.

If other people seem to have trouble understanding you, or if they ask you to slow down or explain yourself a lot, bipolar disorder could be the underlying problem.

Bipolar disorder can cause odd or uncharacteristic behaviors in people who have the condition. Often, these behaviors are hedonistic. People with bipolar disorder are likely to over-spend, engage in unsafe sex, or overindulge in food, alcohol, or drugs when they're in a manic episode. These over-the-top behaviors can lead to ruined relationships, poor health, and financial trouble.

Bipolar disorder can be very difficult to live with. People with the condition often turn to drugs or alcohol to feel better, especially if they don't know what is causing their symptoms. But abusing substances will only make depression and mania worse in the long run.

If you suspect that you or a loved one might have bipolar disorder, it's important to seek treatment from a medical professional instead of trying to self-medicate.

Bipolar disorder sufferers are at increased risk for suicide, even when they are receiving treatment for the condition, so it's very important to take any and all suicidal thoughts seriously. People with bipolar disorder may consider or attempt suicide during either a depressive or manic phase. If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact your local suicide hotline, go to the emergency room, or seek help elsewhere right away.

Spending too much money is a classic symptom of bipolar disorder. Someone who's having a manic episode may go on extravagant spending sprees, even if it means putting themselves in debt.

Manic episodes don't last forever. When someone with bipolar disorder returns to a more normal emotional state (or goes into a depressive cycle), they often regret the things they did and said while in the grip of mania. They may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or guilty about their behavior. These negative feelings can lead to periods of deeper depression. Fortunately, the right treatment can help put a stop to this cycle.

Final Thoughts

Bipolar disorder is a difficult illness to live with, but it can be managed with medication, therapy, and social support. If you think that you or a loved one may have bipolar disorder, don't put off seeking help. The right treatment can help you or your loved one continue to live a healthy and happy life, even with bipolar disorder.

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we'd love to hear your perspective on it! Pass this information along to your family and friends so they can learn about the early signs of bipolar disorder, too.

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!