Also known as manic depression, mood swings illness.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Bipolar disorder causes extreme swings between episodes of abnormally elevated mood and energy (mania) and episodes of deep depression. During mania, a person may not sleep, spend recklessly or believe extraordinary things; the depressions can be severe. It is a treatable brain condition that needs long-term specialist care, not punishment or isolation.
Symptoms
Periods of unusually high energy with little need for sleep
Racing thoughts and rapid speech
Grand plans, reckless spending or risky behaviour
Irritability or aggression during highs
Alternating episodes of deep depression
Periods of normal mood in between
Causes & risk factors
Strong genetic and brain-chemistry component
Stressful life events triggering episodes
Sleep disruption triggering mania
Alcohol and stimulant use worsening the course
Treatment & self-care
Treatment is long-term mood-stabilising medication prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist, with psychological therapy and a regular sleep routine to prevent relapse. Family understanding and early recognition of warning signs shorten episodes. Stopping medication when feeling well is the most common cause of relapse.
See a doctor urgently if
A period of dramatically reduced sleep with racing plans or spending
Mood swings disrupting work or relationships
Any thoughts of self-harm
Psychotic symptoms — hearing voices or fixed false beliefs
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Bipolar Disorder?
Early signs often include periods of unusually high energy with little need for sleep, racing thoughts and rapid speech, grand plans, reckless spending or risky behaviour. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Bipolar Disorder be treated?
Treatment is long-term mood-stabilising medication prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist, with psychological therapy and a regular sleep routine to prevent relapse. Family understanding and early recognition of warning signs shorten episodes. Stopping medication when feeling well is the most common cause of relapse.
When should I see a doctor about Bipolar Disorder?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: a period of dramatically reduced sleep with racing plans or spending; mood swings disrupting work or relationships; any thoughts of self-harm; psychotic symptoms — hearing voices or fixed false beliefs.