What it is
What is bipolar disorder?
The National Institute of Mental Health describes bipolar disorder as a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. These shifts happen as mood episodes, periods that are distinct from a person's usual self, rather than the ordinary ups and downs everyone has.
Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition, and with ongoing, clinician-led care many people manage it and lead full lives. Understanding the patterns is often the first step.
NIMH describes bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. These differ in the type, severity, and pattern of mood episodes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
NIMH describes three main kinds of mood episodes. Recognising them in yourself or someone else is not a diagnosis, but it can help you describe what has been happening.
- Manic episodes: an unusually elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, with much more energy or activity, a reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts, or fast speech.
- Hypomanic episodes: similar changes that are less severe than mania, sometimes noticed more by others than by the person experiencing them.
- Depressive episodes: periods of very low mood, loss of interest, low energy, changes in sleep or appetite, and trouble concentrating.
Symptoms described here are for general education and are not a diagnosis. Only a qualified clinician can assess what you are experiencing.
In everyday life
During an elevated period, someone may take on far more than usual, sleep only a few hours without feeling tired, or make impulsive decisions with money or relationships. During a depressive period, the same person may struggle to get through the day. The contrast can be confusing, both for the person and for those around them.
Because hypomania can feel productive or even good, many people first seek help during a depressive episode. Mentioning any past periods of unusually high energy is important information for a clinician.
Seeking support
When to consult a therapist
Consult a therapist or another qualified mental health professional when you notice distinct periods of unusually high energy, reduced need for sleep, or depression. Suspected bipolar disorder also needs assessment by a qualified clinician; a psychiatrist or other medical professional may be needed alongside therapy. Seek support when:
- You have noticed distinct periods of very high energy and reduced need for sleep, as well as periods of low mood.
- Family or friends have commented on marked changes in your behaviour.
- Mood changes are affecting work, finances, relationships, or safety.
- If changes are sudden or severe, or safety is a concern, seek prompt professional help. Call or text 988 in a crisis, or 911 for a life-threatening emergency.
Getting clarity
What an assessment may involve
Diagnosis requires a qualified clinician. NIMH notes that assessment considers the severity and duration of symptoms, a person's lifetime history of mood episodes, and family history. Clinicians also consider other conditions, such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, substance use, or medical issues, that can resemble or occur alongside bipolar symptoms.
A mood journal noting sleep, energy, and major changes can be helpful to bring, but it is not required.
Your first step: clear questions, useful answers
- What is useful to mention when I reach out?
- Describe changes in mood, energy, sleep, and daily functioning. Mention past periods of unusually high energy as well as low mood, even if the high-energy periods felt positive.
- What information can help a clinician?
- A medication list, previous care records, and a simple timeline of mood changes can be helpful. Notes from someone you trust may also add context.
- Why is ongoing care important?
- Bipolar disorder involves patterns over time. Regular clinician-led care can help monitor symptoms, review treatment, and recognize changes that need attention.
- How can I plan my next step?
- Diana serves patients in Texas, North Carolina, Virginia, New York, and Massachusetts. Ask about available bipolar care, follow-up arrangements, and fees. These practical details help you make an informed choice about appointments.
General information
Care options a clinician may discuss
NIMH describes bipolar disorder care as generally ongoing and clinician-led, often involving medication, psychotherapy, or a combination. Treatment choices are individual and are made with a qualified clinician over time. There is no single approach that suits everyone, and this page cannot recommend medications.
Speak with Relax Mind Wellness Clinic about available bipolar disorder services and the practical details of arranging care.
Common questions
Bipolar disorder FAQs
Is bipolar disorder the same as having mood swings?
No. Bipolar disorder involves sustained mood episodes that last days or longer and are noticeably different from a person's usual self, not brief changes in mood during a day.
Can people live well with bipolar disorder?
Yes. Many people manage bipolar disorder and lead full lives with ongoing, clinician-led care. Although it is a long-term condition, treatment and consistent support can help manage symptoms and daily functioning.
I have been treated for depression before. Should I mention past high-energy periods?
Yes. Information about any past periods of unusually elevated mood or energy is important for a clinician to know, even if they felt positive at the time.
What should I do if someone I love seems to be in a severe episode?
If there is any risk to safety, call 911. In the United States, you can also call or text 988 for crisis support and guidance.
Does the clinic accept insurance and Medicaid?
We accept insurance and Medicaid. Call to confirm your specific plan, benefits, and any out-of-pocket costs. Coverage and eligibility depend on your plan, service, and state. Have your insurance or Medicaid card ready when you call the clinic.
Sources
Educational content on this page is summarized in plain language from these public resources. It is not a description of the clinic's own services.
