Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms
Knowledge is the best weapon to treat any illness, disease, or disorder that can affect the human race. The symptoms of bipolar disorder include more than just the drastic mood swings that are indicative of the disorder. Many of the symptoms can be physical adding to a person's discomfort. Because bipolar disorder goes through periods of highs and lows called episodes, everyone should be aware that there are actually two sets of symptoms: manic episode symptoms, and depressive episode symptoms.
The symptoms of mania
When a person experiences a manic episode of their bipolar disorder, they experience an elevated mood with three or more symptoms that last for an entire day, everyday for one week or longer. If the person is irritable, then more than three symptoms will be present. These symptoms include but are not limited to: increased energy and activity; overly good mood; irritability; racing thoughts; inability to concentrate on one thing for long; talking fast; little to no sleep needed; poor judgment; unusual behavior; increased sex drive; drug and alcohol abuse; and denial.
Hypomania is a mild to moderate episode that makes the individual feel good and be productive. It is very misleading because the person and the people around them are convinced that there is really nothing wrong. If left untreated, hypomania can become severe or even cause the person suffering the bipolar disorder to sink into depression.
The symptoms of depression
A depressive episode is at the opposite of the mood pendulum. Episodes may last two weeks or longer instead of just one. A depressive episode is characterized by the individual experiencing five or more of the following symptoms: empty mood or anxiousness; hopelessness; worthlessness; loss in interest in activities the individual usually enjoys; fatigue; difficulty concentrating; restlessness; irritability; too much or not enough sleep; change in diet; chronic pain with no apparent cause; and suicidal thoughts.
If you or someone you know is suffering from any of these bipolar symptoms - be it manic or depressive - strongly encourage them to seek medical attention.