Having bipolar disorder isn’t funny, but many people joke about “acting bipolar.” Unfortunately, this only perpetuates stigma and belittles the experiences of those actually living with the disorder.

Historically known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that can significantly impact a person’s day-to-day life. The mood swings typically involve episodes of mania or hypomania (an elevated or irritable mood) and episodes of depression (feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness). While everyone experiences ups and downs in life, individuals with bipolar disorder go through peaks and valleys that interfere with everyday life.

People with bipolar disorder need support and compassion—not teasing or judgment. The best way to reduce stigma is by educating people on the basics of bipolar disorder, including its types, symptoms, and treatments. Let’s dig in.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. Healthcare professionals typically categorize it into several types, primarily based on the severity of the episodes and how often they recur.

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I disorder is characterized by at least one manic episode. The manic episodes can be severe, sometimes requiring hospitalization, and may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or depressive episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode (a milder form of mania) and one major depressive episode. While the manic phases in Bipolar II aren’t as intense as those in Bipolar I, the depressive episodes can still be profound and disruptive.

Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)

This is a milder form of bipolar disorder, involving less intense but chronic mood fluctuations. People with cyclothymic disorder often experience periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of mild depressive symptoms over an extended timeframe (often two years or more), but these symptoms do not always meet the criteria for full hypomanic or major depressive episodes.

Other Specified or Unspecified Bipolar Disorders

Sometimes, individuals may experience noticeable mood disturbances that don’t fit neatly into the categories above. In these cases, a clinician might use terms like “other specified” or “unspecified” to diagnose or describe the condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Manic or Hypomanic Episodes

Mania is more intense than hypomania, but both states share some core symptoms:

• Elevated or irritable mood
• Increased activity, energy, or restlessness
• Racing thoughts or rapid speech
• Inflated self-esteem or feelings of grandiosity
• Reduced need for sleep (feeling rested after only a few hours)
• Excessive involvement in pleasurable or high-risk activities (e.g., spending sprees, driving fast, substance use, or risky sexual behavior)

Depressive Episodes

Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder often mirror those in major depressive disorder:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
• Significant changes in appetite or weight
• Sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Potential Causes and Risk Factors

Bipolar disorder doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, it appears to result from a combination of factors. People with a family history of bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing it themselves. This is believed to be the case because certain genes may make some individuals more vulnerable. Brain chemistry also plays a role, as imbalances in neurotransmitters can contribute to the development of mood disorders.

Another risk factor is the environment. High-stress life events, trauma, substance use, or prolonged emotional distress may trigger the onset of symptoms in some individuals. Lastly, hormonal changes may play a role, as fluctuations in hormones have been linked to mood swings. However, research continues to evolve on this topic.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Because bipolar disorder can sometimes be mistaken for other mental health conditions, proper diagnosis is crucial. Mental health professionals perform comprehensive evaluations, which may include clinical interviews, questionnaires or rating scales for mood symptoms, and an analysis of your personal and family medical history.

As for treatment, a combination of medication, therapy, and supportive measures is best:

• Medication. This includes mood stabilizers like lithium to regulate highs and lows and antipsychotics to treat severe manic or depressive episodes. Antidepressants may also be prescribed to address depressive episodes.
• Psychotherapy. Talk therapy is important in understanding your distorted thought patterns, improving relationships, and developing healthy coping strategies. Some of the best therapies for bipolar disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and family-focused therapy.
• Lifestyle Adjustments. Self-care is crucial in keeping your mind and body balanced and resilient. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, engage in physical activity, eat a balanced diet, avoid substance use, and engage in stress reduction techniques like meditation.
• Support Systems. Isolation can exacerbate the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Build a strong support network, attend peer support groups, and check-in with your therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors regularly.

Find Bipolar Disorder Treatment Near You

Understanding bipolar disorder is the first step toward dismantling the stigma and encouraging empathy for those affected. If you’re concerned about symptoms or have questions, please contact Spearhead Health at 310-561-1704. We can help you find treatment that is effective and appropriate for your needs.