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