Everyone's mood shifts now and then. But for people with bipolar disorder, extreme mood swings are a way of life.
Bipolar disorder, also called manic depressive illness, is a mental illness that causes a person's feelings to shift between mania and severe depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
People with bipolar disorder are usually diagnosed in their teens and 20s. But the symptoms sometimes start in childhood. It can take time to recognize bipolar disorder. Some symptoms may be mistaken for other problems.
It's important to discuss any unusual symptoms with a doctor right away. Without treatment, bipolar disorder often gets worse. Uncontrolled, it can lead to problems in a marriage or other relationship, unemployment and even suicide.
Changing moods
A person with bipolar disorder experiences moods that swing between two extremes, according to the NIMH:
Mania
During the manic stage, a person's feelings may range from great excitement to extreme irritability. Symptoms of the manic phase include:
- Increased energy and activity levels.
- Rapid flow of ideas and words.
- Decreased need for sleep.
- Poor judgment.
- Feelings of invincibility.
- Reckless behavior.
- Drug abuse.
- Aggression.
Depression
When the mood switches from mania, a person will sink into an inconsolable depression. The depressive phase may come right after the manic phase, or may follow an even-keeled period that's neither manic nor depressive. Symptoms of depression include:
- Constant sad or anxious mood.
- Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness.
- Lack of interest in daily activities.
- Loss of energy.
- Unexplained aches and pains.
- Trouble concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
Stabilizing the swings
Bipolar disorder isn't curable. But it is very treatable, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Since there's no cure for bipolar disorder, treatment may have to continue for life to keep the symptoms under control.
Two treatments are commonly used for bipolar disorder:
Medication. The right medicine is an important part of treating bipolar disorder. With medications such as lithium, most people can gain control of their mood swings.
Psychotherapy. Used along with medication, therapy can help provide support and guidance to people with bipolar disorder. It can also be helpful for the person's family.
Reviewed 4/3/2024