The Many Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:

Research is quickly showing that mental illnesses are on the rise. Whether this is due to the state of the world today, or because more people are seeking treatment, no one is quite sure. The fact of the matter is that more and more people are questioning whether or not they are mentally stable. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is extremely complex, not only because there are many different types of bipolar disorder, but also because there are many different symptoms, which can make it difficult for a person to determine for themselves if they have this condition.

The Types of Bipolar Disorder Symptoms:

When it comes to bipolar disorder there are two types of bipolar symptoms – the symptoms that are extreme and very difficult to ignore and the more subtle ones. Let’s start with the more extreme symptoms. One of the most commonly discussed symptoms of bipolar disorder is the rapidly changing mood of a person who is going through the condition. A person who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder is likely to have periods of elevated or irritable moods, which are then followed rapidly by a swift decrease in energy and thinking. These two phases are known as mania and depression.

Manic Bipolar Phase:

When a person is going through their manic phase they often find themselves feeling extremely happy and may discover that their thoughts seem to be racing. They may have a lot of energy and may also show some impulsive behavior as well, such as driving rapidly or going on shopping sprees. Some bipolar patients have periods of irritability rather than periods of euphoria, but both are symptoms of going through a manic period.

Bipolar Depression Phase:

The depression symptoms generally follow the manic symptoms and include traditional depression symptoms such as a decreased sense of self-esteem and mood, very low energy levels, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal thoughts. The most difficult part for many bipolar patients is not dealing with the manic periods, but rather dealing with the depression periods, as well as the severe swing that occurs between the two.

The Subtle Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:

Anyone who has ever heard of bipolar disorder generally knows the extreme bipolar symptoms of the condition, but most people do not recognize the more subtle symptoms. In actuality, it is the more subtle symptoms that people tend to recognize in themselves when they are first diagnosed with bipolar disorder. For instance, an inability to complete tasks is actually a symptom of the condition. This is because people who are manic tend to have a difficult time sitting still to complete a task. Those who suffer from the condition often have a difficult time in the workplace as well, mainly because the wide array of symptoms make it difficult for the person to show up for work consistently and be productive. Studies have also shown that around 50% of people who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder also have some sort of substance abuse problem, which often begins as a way to self-medicate.

Treating Bipolar Disorder:

It is extremely important that anyone who feels as though they are experiencing many of the more extreme symptoms, and the more subtle symptoms see a doctor as soon as they can. Bipolar disorder can be treated with medication, but it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.